What is the difference between water softening and water filtration? Does a water softener also filter? If not, do I need both? These are some of the questions our Carmel customers ask us at Indy Soft Water, when they begin to research water softening and filtration systems for their homes. When you understand the differences behind each method, you are better prepared to make a buying decision.

Water Softeners

Hard water causes scale and build-up, which can damage your appliances; leave scale deposits on your dishes, showers, and faucets; and make your skin and hair grimy. Alternatively, soft water makes soap lather better. It also prevents water spots on your sinks, countertops, and glassware. Furthermore, it ensures your appliances will last longer.

Minerals, such as magnesium and calcium, contribute to hard water, and water softeners essentially remove these unwanted minerals. They accomplish this using resins in the sodium solution to attract and bind the minerals. It’s accurate to say that water softeners both soften and filter water. However, water softening focuses on the specific minerals that cause hard water. Therefore, contaminants and impurities in your home’s water supply that don’t relate to hard water require other water filtration methods to remove them.

Water Filters

Point of use water filtration systems filter water at the tap. For example, reverse osmosis systems generally attach to the kitchen sink hardware. This type of system works by injecting air into the water through a process called aspiration. Point of entry (POE) is another type of water filtration method. POE systems filter water at the source, before it makes its way throughout the house to its different destinations for different uses. Because of varying contaminants and mixed use of water in the home, water filters also vary.  

Here are some of the impurities that are filtered from the water supply:

• Fluoride
• Chlorine
• Minerals
• Bacteria
• Sediment
• Iron

Iron, in particular, can cause red staining in your sinks, tubs, and toilets. It can also have a funny smell and a displeasing taste. Because of these issues, people choose to utilize water filtration systems. 

The Best System for Your Home

Water softeners play a vital role in water purity, as it pertains to producing soft water that protects your skin, appliances, dishes, and sinks. However, they don’t eliminate other water contaminants and chemicals. To that end, customers frequently use both a water softener and a water filtration system to achieve both goals.  Water softening and water filtration are great investments for your home and personal health. If you live in Carmel or the surrounding area and want to improve your water supply or repair your existing system, call Indy Soft Water today at (317) 228-9822.