Water softening is used to reduce hardness caused primarily by calcium and magnesium. Hard water is generally not a health concern, but it can cause scaling in pipes, water heaters, household appliances and industrial processes.
Suitable for
- Hard Water
- Scale Formation
- Protection of Water Heaters
- Process Water
- Domestic Water
Advantages
- Reduces Scale Build-Up
- Can Extend Equipment Life
- Reduces Cleaning Requirements
- Improves Certain Process Efficiencies
Limitations
- Does Not Remove Bacteria or Viruses
- Does Not Normally Remove PFAS
- Does Not Normally Remove Nitrate or Fluoride
- Addresses Hardness Only
Common Symptoms of Hard Water
- White Scale Deposits on Fixtures
- Scale in Kettles and Coffee Machines
- Reduced Water Heater Efficiency
- Increased Soap Consumption
Example Treatment Trains
Groundwater
↓
Particle Filter
↓
Water Softener
↓
UV Disinfection
↓
Household Water
Well Water
↓
Aeration
↓
Iron Filter
↓
Water Softening
↓
UV Disinfection
↓
Drinking Water
Raw Water
↓
Particle Filtration
↓
Water Softening
↓
Process
Water softening does not improve microbiological water quality and is not a substitute for disinfection. The primary purpose is to reduce scaling and protect equipment. Softening systems require regular maintenance and replenishment of regeneration salt.