Difference Between a Good Water Softener & a Bad One

Hard Water

Minerals in hard water are measured in either parts per million (ppm) or grains per gallon (gpg). Hard water may change the color of clothes washed in it and affect the usefulness of detergent and soap. It can even change the complexion of frequent hard water drinkers, giving them an orange cast. Water softeners are generally used in homes or businesses using well water and relying on septic systems, not areas with municipal water and sewerage treatment facilities.

The majority of water softeners use an ion exchange resin, using salt to remove the minerals in the water causing the hardness. The ion exchange system removes the minerals and replaces them with sodium as the water goes through the softener. These types of water softeners have firm scientific evidence to back up results. Other types of water softeners include the magnetic or electronic versions, but studies on these versions offer contrary views regarding efficacy. When making a decision, contact your local board of health for a recommendation on the best type of water softener for your area; ask if there are any types to avoid.

The difference between a good and bad water softener may also depend on your particular energy sources. A study by New Mexico State University found that, in terms of energy consumption, "The group of used gas water heaters took 29.57 percent more British Thermal Units than the group on softened water to provide the same amount of hot water." The study showed the used electric water heaters needed 21.68 percent more BTU's.

Water softeners used three basic types of salt. While rock salt comes from underground deposits, solar salt originates in evaporated seawater. According to the Salt Institute, the evaporated type is the purest grade. This type includes table salt; it's also highly recommended for water softeners. A third type, crystal rock salt, often sold as "salt pellets," melts, re-crystallizes, then melts again; it may clog tank cylinders and impair the backwash function. Because they are soft, salt pellets may turn mushy in the bottom of the brine tank, another factor affecting backwash function.