Salt-Free Water Softener Systems

What is the difference between a water softener and a water conditioner?

Water conditioners are often called water softeners, but there are significant differences between the two.

Water softeners are defined by removing hard water minerals, thus creating “softened water.”

Water softeners use a process called “ion-exchange.” Resins inside the filter tank attract the heavy minerals and remove them by exchanging their ions for sodium or potassium ions.

Ion-exchange systems require you to replace the salt or potassium routinely, but this can cost as little as ten dollars a month.

Water conditioners, on the other hand, do not remove hard materials. They make them less disruptive by crystalizing them and reducing their ability to stick to anything.

This style of water treatment is often referred to as physical because it will change the physical qualities of the water.

Ion-exchange systems, by contrast, are a type of chemical treatment because they remove the ions themselves and exchange them for sodium or potassium ions, therefore changing the chemical qualities of the water.

Salt-free water conditioner

Salt-based systems are not right for everyone. Water softeners are banned in many cities because the salt can be bad for septic tanks, making salt-free systems the only option for those who live in those areas.

Those who choose water conditioning systems will save a little money each month by not having salt or potassium that needs replacing.

Water conditioners will not remove dishwasher spots or leave your skin and hair feeling silky-soft, but otherwise, conditioned water and softened water yield similar results.

There are some smaller water filters for individual faucets or rooms that also operate without salt, but a whole-house water conditioner that treats every drop of water your home uses is the only solution for your pipes and appliances.

How does a water conditioner work?

How your water conditioner system works will depend on what kind of system you get. Different types of water conditioners will work in different ways, but in the end, all water conditioners are affecting the hard minerals in a way that reduces their build-up.

You will want to consider all available options before deciding which kind of water conditioner is best for you.

Template-Assisted Crystallization, often shortened to TAC, is the most common option. TAC systems have resin beads that change hard mineral ions into a crystalline form. These microscopic crystals flow through the water without clinging to surfaces.

We use and recommend TAC systems for our customers.

Electrolysis uses a battery to condition hard water—metal electrodes in the water release positive zinc ions, which then release electrons. The electrons move through a wire to a cathode. This type of system only works until the zinc anode dissolves, so it requires monitoring.

Electromagnetism and magnetism systems are subject to debate. There has been little testing on their efficiency, and the few tests that have been done yield only conflicting and inconclusive results.

These systems use magnets to create a magnetic field in the water. Hard mineral ions form clusters that stick to surfaces, but the magnetic field changes the clusters’ shapes, making them less likely to cling.

The only difference between electromagnetism and magnetism is how the magnetic field is controlled. With electromagnets, the magnetic field can be turned on and off with an electric switch.

Electrical Induction systems use an electrical current that “precipitates water hardness,” or separates the hard materials into a solid cluster that will not dissolve or flow through the water. This solid is called an “electrode,” and you may have to clean it out periodically. The precipitation process can also leave a layer of sludge on some surfaces that can be knocked away with fast-flowing water.

Do I need a water conditioner in Corona, California?

The minerals in hard water are not dangerous to ingest, so your health will not be affected by drinking water that has not been softened or conditioned.

It is, however, the health of your pipes and appliances, that suffers from hard water and wastes your money.

If you’d like to protect yourself from costly repairs to your plumbing or wish to avoid the unexpected cost of a new appliance, then a water conditioner may be the best solution for you.

Water conditioners drastically reduce limescale build-up on shower doors, tiles, toilets, and sinks. With reduced scale build-up, you will spend a lot less on cleaning products.

Conditioned water even helps remove the existing scale. Water conditioning systems also extend the lifespans of all your water-using appliances and pipes, saving you money on costly repairs or replacements.

Conditioned water is also more compatible with soaps and detergents, so you could save money by using less of them.

What is the best system for hard water?

Which system is best for you largely depends on your individual needs and preferences.

Both water softeners and water conditioning systems will protect your pipes and appliances, so your decision may come down to what other filtration systems you are using, and if you like the silky-smooth feel of on your skin of salt-based systems.

You may have restrictions on your choices based on your city’s codes; some towns prohibit installing salt-based water softener systems.

Your health concerns may be a factor. If your doctor has recommended against salt intake in your diet, then a salt-based water softener system is not for you. A salt-free water conditioner may be the best choice for such a person, Always consult with your physician. 

Your budget will also be a factor, as well as how much time you can devote to upkeep (salt or potassium-based systems require maintenance).

Both systems will be able to offer you something that the other cannot.

More Water Filtration & Softening Information