If you’ve heard about the water descaler, an alternative to the salt-based water softener, perhaps you’re wondering if this product actually beats the traditional water softener. In case you’re planning on making a purchase though, you might want to check out the product and its pros and cons first before you make a decision.
What is an Electronic Water Softener and How Does It Work
Unlike the salt-based water softener, an electronic water softener is a salt-free electronic device that has coils installed around your pipings. The electronic water softener produces electromagnetic waves which interact with the incoming water through the pipelines going to your house. Once the water passes through the pipings with coils, the electromagnetic waves prevent limescale in the water from attaching and building upon the pipes.
Advantages
The product will not influence the quality of the water that passes through the pipes. It will not add salt or remove the important minerals since it does not interact with the water aside from its electromagnetic waves. All of the minerals you need in your water are intact even if you have a water treatment system installed in your home. You can expect less maintenance since it prevents limescale buildup in your pipe. The product also comes with a lifetime replacement/repair guarantee. Lastly, the product does not require you to change your plumbing to accommodate the electronic water softener.
Disadvantages
Unlike salt-based water softeners, you won’t feel the softening of your water when drinking or washing with the water that passes through the filter system. Since the product is an electronic device, it can’t be installed in an outdoor setting. The product is not waterproof so it can’t withstand the outdoor environment.
Verdict
While the product has its advantages, the idea that a water softener does not actually make the water soft is kind of disappointing, especially for its price. Since it’s a water softener, you’re expecting the water to be soft when you drink or wash. In fact, there’s no real proof that the product works in preventing the buildup of limescale in the pipes.
What is a Salt-Based Water Softener
The salt-based water softener is a mechanical device that catches minerals that find their way into the pipelines. The only way to remove the minerals that make your water hard is with a salt-based water softener like the AquaOx Water Softener. Calcium and magnesium are common contaminants found in our water. While they are important to our health, contaminated water may carry high amounts of these minerals which can be dangerous in the long run. Since these minerals make your water hard, salt-based water softener catches calcium and magnesium to fix the water hardness issue. A water softener is an effective solution to hard water thanks to the ion exchange process.
Advantages
Unlike salt-free water softeners, a salt-based water softener makes sure it gets all the calcium and magnesium that goes through the filter system. It makes sure both minerals are eliminated even before you turn on your faucet. Since it removes calcium and magnesium, the water treatment system will prevent the buildup of limescale in your pipings. Salt-based water softeners also make your water softer so you won’t have to worry about the bubbles on your soaps. Lastly, water softeners protect your appliances like washing machines and dishwashers by preventing limescale deposits from passing through the pipes.
Disadvantages
Unlike its electronic counterpart, the mechanical appliance is more expensive. As a hard-working device that makes sure your water stays soft, clean, and clear, it requires more maintenance. Since it is salt-based, you need to buy salt to add to the water filter system to maintain its effectiveness.
Verdict
A salt-based water softener is a good investment if you have the money to spend on an expensive water treatment system. Although more expensive than its alternative, you can expect better short term and long term results from the product. Unfortunately, the heavy maintenance is a downer since you’ll be spending more for its repairs and replacements in the future. Overall, it is a good product worth checking out if you are experiencing a water hardness issue.
Conclusion
While the electronic water softener may sound promising due to the technology it uses, the mechanical appliance is more reliable and effective when it comes to softening the water. However, every individual has his own reasons and situations why they should pick one or the other. Both of these water softeners have their pros and cons that you need to consider before making a decision. If you’re leaning on effectiveness regardless of the cost, then choose the salt-based water softener. However, if you don’t like the idea of using chemicals to soften your tap water, then go for the electronic water softener. Weigh your options and make a decision on which device will help you fix your water hardness issue.
When you use the AquaOx WS in conjunction with the AquaOx whole house water filter, you will have amazing, great tasting, clean water everywhere in your home.
