How it works

The need to reduce the hardness of water is the most common form of water treatment. Hard water is created when naturally soft rain water percolates through subterranean rock strata and dissolves many solids including calcium and magnesium. Therefore, there are many areas in Ireland where the supply of water contains a significant level of these salts. It is called “hard water” because of the hard deposits that are created when this type of water is used in appliances.

Problems caused by Hard water

Deposits form a thick, concrete like, coating in heat exchanging elements and the inside of boilers, tanks and pipes. The scale build up reduces the efficiency of all heat exchange systems due to the insulating effect of the deposit. This will increase energy costs and can create overheating on surfaces of the heat source and thereby create premature failure.

Water Softening System

A cost effective way to solve these problems is to remove, replace or exchange the dissolved hard minerals salts with “soft salts” which are more soluble and do not form a hard scale. This is done by installing a water softener. The water softener works by a process known as ion exchange. It is used to remove the calcium and magnesium from the water. The process is low-cost, requiring only salt to run it.

Important Consideration

Ensure the company you choose has knowledge of the specific hardness present in your water – if they did not ask you for this it is very unlikely they understand your needs and could suggest an unsuitable system.