Water Softener Systems

Dual-tank softeners -- When a softener is recharging, it is designed to disconnect from the water system. Large families or those who live where water is particularly hard--with more than 10 GPG, for example--may want to consider a unit with two resin tanks. With these units, when one tank is in use, the other is regenerating. As a result, you never run out of softened water.

Salt-free softening -- Some people are concerned about the health affects of the sodium that softeners put in drinking water. Be aware that most health concerns are over intake of sodium chloride, not sodium bicarbonate that results from softening water. In addition, opinions expressed in the New England Journal of Medicine minimize concerns about the amount of salt introduced by water softeners.

Although the amount of sodium added is minimal compared to a healthy person's normal diet, people who have been advised by a doctor to reduce sodium intake may want to consider a unit that regenerates with potassium chloride salt substitute rather than sodium.

A more radical--and controversial--option is an electronic water softener or magnetic water softener. According to manufacturers, this plug-in device, which clips onto the incoming pipe, sets up a magnetic field that is claimed to change the electromagnetic properties of the calcium carbonate minerals so they are repelled from pipes and each other. A study commissioned by the Water Quality Association found that, when tested against conventional ion-exchange softeners and against their own claims, no significant physical or chemical changes in the properties of water occurred and the units did not reduce scale formation. Despite effectiveness claims by manufacturers of these devices, buyer beware.

Look for certification. NSF International is an independent testing organization that tests and certifies water-treatment products. The water industry's trade organization, the Water Quality Association, also certifies equipment with their Gold Seal program. Look for the WQA Gold Seal. Although neither of these certifications guarantee performance, they signify that the equipment has successfully passed testing for industry standards and their claims have been validated, an important step toward ensuring that the unit you buy or lease will offer years of trouble-free service.