Are Water Softeners Bad for Faucets?

Hard Water Ratings

• Hard water is rated according to grains per gallon of hardness in water. A measurement of below 1.0 gpg is considered soft water. Slightly hard water rates 1.0 to 3.5 gpg. Very hard water is above 10.5 gpg of hardness. Hardness also is measured in milligrams per liter or parts per million, with 1 gpg being equal to 17 mg/1 or ppm. A rating of less than 17 mg/1 or ppm is soft, and more than 180 is very hard. Hard water itself poses no health risks.

Soft Water

• Soft water occurs naturally or is created in the home with water softening equipment. Soap and detergents work more effectively, flowing freely through fabrics and off of surfaces, rather than clogging and sticking by combining with minerals. A reduced mineral content contributes to the longevity of plumbing systems, including pipes and faucets. Appliances such as hot water heaters and dishwashers last longer when the corrosive effect of minerals is eliminated. Reducing or eliminating scale buildup eases cleaning tasks; surfaces shine and washed laundry is soft and bright.

Considerations

• Salt-based water softening systems add sodium to household water, posing a possible health risk to people on sodium-restricted diets. Expensive systems place a burden on household budgets that is not always offset by the benefits. Water softening systems require varying amounts of regular maintenance for optimal performance. Local community water suppliers must provide water source test results; monitoring private supplies is the responsibility of the owner. Homeowners use water testing kits to determine individual household needs according to local water sources and conditions.

Water Softening Equipment

• An ion exchange process eliminates hardness by trading the hardening minerals for salt in a process during which free sodium ions are released into the water. Basic units include a salt storage tank and an ion exchange resin tank. Household water filters through the tanks to remove minerals. A bypass valve allows hard water access for watering plants and other uses for which soft water is inappropriate. The tanks require a commitment of permanent floor space.