The process of softening water is surprisingly straightforward. First, let us explain what “hard water” means. Then, how unexpectedly easy managing your water for optimal use can really be.
What is Hard Water?
Hard water is measured in two ways: milligrams per liter (or parts per million) and grains per gallon.
Typically, for any results over 2 grains/gallon (gpg), we recommend installing a remediation system. These systems come in the form of a tank installed in your basement. They’re about 54” tall with a control valve at the top, and look like just a scuba tank, only larger!
How Do We Adjust our Water?
The first step is to access how hard your water is (see chart above). Then calculating your usage rates to provide the proper water softening system. We will work with you to determine the best fit for resin regeneration system needed.
The remediation system tanks use an ion exchange where resin beads inside the softener are charged with sodium ions. Water flows through the resin and the beads pull calcium and magnesium ions out replacing them with sodium ions. Over time, the resin will “fill up” because it can only hold so much calcium and magnesium ions. Periodically, the resin beads need to be recharged with sodium ions so that they’re able to continue removing calcium and magnesium. The tank itself measures flow and calculates when it needs to be regenerated based on volume.
How Do We Maintain our Water Softener Systems?
To regenerate your tank, it is as simple as adding salt to the brine tank at regular intervals. In most cases, this ends up being about 50 lbs. of salt per month. Fifty pounds of salt is a general amount. A combination of how hard your water is and how much water you use will determine how much salt needed.
Water softeners require annual servicing which we do on-site in your home. Typically “hardness in your water” will not go away. Fortunately, regular maintenance is an easy way to manage the issue. The maintenance is a very hands-off process and easy to manage with regular regeneration.
Water softener systems usually last anywhere from 10-20 years. We do still recommend regular water testing every three years or so. Regular water testing will alert you to any changes in your water make-up or if your consumption is changing.
Lastly, for those with a large yard and/or garden spaces that use a lot of water, we typically bypass using the softener system. Outside water sources like hoses/external-use faucets will increase your water consumption exponentially. Exhausting the softener much faster, therefore customers don’t feel the need to soften their external water.
Request a FREE Immediate-Response Water Test
Give FONTUS a call we’ll be right out to provide a free immediate-response Water Test. Testing onsite, FONTUS will have immediate results to determine if there is iron, manganese, hardness, total dissolved solids (TDS), pH, alkalinity, salinity, copper, as well as a few other common water issues present in your water.
Taking control of your water supply is easy, schedule your free water test today, call (207) 856-0066 or email info@fontush2o.com to speak with Thomas Marcisso.
FONTUS Water Treatment
The expert team at FONTUS Water Treatment is based in Westbrook Maine and services Cumberland and York counties. We can help correct your home or business water supply to provide safe and healthy water for your family and/or employees.