What is the difference between water that is filtered and water that is softened? Do you need both a water filter AND a water softener? Research can be exhausting, so we have all the info you need to be prepared to make a buying decision.
What Is a Water Filter?
A water filter removes unwanted contaminants from your water. If your home does not have a filtration system, then YOU are the filter! Even city water treated by a municipality may still contain impurities such as:
- Chlorine
- Nitrates
- Iron
- Sodium
- Prescriptions drugs
A water filter is usually a Point of Use unit like a Reverse Osmosis system installed right at the kitchen sink. If you are concerned about contaminants in your drinking water, a RO system can ease your mind and also provide great tasting drinking water!
How is a Water Softener Different?
A water softener is a Point of Entry treatment system that treats all the water coming into your house. Its job is to soften your hard water. Hard water contains high amounts of magnesium and calcium. Simply put, a water softener is a water filter for the specific minerals that cause hard water.
Hard water can cause:
- Dry skin and dry damaged hair
- Limescale buildup on pipes and faucets
- Water spots on dishes
- Plumbing issues
A good quality water softening system will solve your hard water problems AND save your family a lot of money on bath products, plumbing issues, appliances, cleaning products and water heater usage.
Do You Need a Water Filter or a Water Softener?
So, now you are wondering if you need a water softener, water filter, or both. If you are in the 85% of American households with hard water, you would definitely benefit from a water softener. However, a water softener does not eliminate all water contaminants and chemicals. If you want peace of mind that your family is drinking safe, healthy water that also tastes great, then you also would benefit from a drinking water filtration system.
Water softeners and water filters are both great investments for your home and personal health! Whether you’re looking for a home water softener, drinking water system, or any other water treatment system, Palm Springs Water Systems is here to help! Call us for an in-home water test and we can help you choose the systems that are the best fit for your home.
