Water Softening Systems

Flocker

Can anyone give me information on the best water softener systems for home use, electronic, which seem to be much cheaper and easier to install or filter types, which take up a lot of space and need salt top-ups?

Biggles

You's stand a better chance of getting responses if you edited the thread header to something useful instead of your username.

nofoollikeold

1. The "electronic" or magnetic ones claim to alter the structure of the hardness in the water to prevent it scaling things it comes in contact with. So far as I am aware they don't claim to soften the water. I have yet to see any conclusive proof they do the slightest bit of good.

2. The ones you refer to as the filter type run the incoming water over a bed of Zeolites. These extract the hardness from the water, but gradually become "choked" and have to be recharged by running salt water over them. The salt water is run to a drain, and does not enter the domestic water system, although tiny traces may be present. I've had one for the past 30 years, its been serviced twice, broken down once and I wouldn't be without it.

3. If you go for a proper water softener, you need to consider:
3a. Where you store the salt. I buy 10 25Kg bags at a time as its cheaper.
3b. Where the softener is installed, as it needs a drain and an overflow outlet as well as the water in and out pipes.
3c. If you have a combination boiler, whether the manufacturer's guarantee will be affected.
3d. The kitchen sink tap needs to be supplied with un-softened water.

Flocker

Thanks Biggles, I'm new to this!

ComicGeek

It would be worth you explaining what the current problem is and why you think you need a water softener. Do you have particularly hard water? Lots of different products out there that do different jobs.

Flocker

I do have some type of hard water which causes taps to tighten up and the usual washing machine and kettle stuff. I come under South Staffs Water Company.

KeithP

This lengthy thread will probably answer all your questions:

water softner help in chosing and is this true

jeannae

It depends on your needs. If you have a water softener company near your home, you can ask them to check your water quality before deciding which soft water heater is right for you.

Doc_N

fs13jfw said:

It depends on how many bathrooms your home has I think! anything above 2 bathrooms and you will need a twin tank. I have heard Harvey and Kinetico are the best and I managed to get a good deal and price from an online company called 

They have offers running which gives a Harvey S4 for just £1199.99 with a discount code - worth a look.

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