The Difference Between Water Softeners and Water Filters

You may come across water filters and water softeners when you’re looking to upgrade the water quality in your home. It’s a good idea to understand the distinctions between them when deciding whether each is an essential addition to your household. Continue reading to explore the difference between water softeners and water filters.
Water Filtration Systems
Water filters comprise any apparatus capable of screening and removing contaminants from your drinking water. These systems can range from modest Reverse Osmosis (RO) treatments to massive whole house filters that purify the water throughout your home.
Whole house filtration systems employ a broad range of water purification methods to treat any contamination before it reaches your taps. These systems use advanced media beds to extract contaminants through different processes, such as ion exchange, oxidation, and absorption. There are several varieties of media, and their adaptability allows them to handle a wide range of substances, including natural and synthetic compounds and heavy metals.
Water Softeners
Technically, a water softener is a water filter, but not all water filters are water softeners. Water softeners are whole house filters that remove minerals, such as magnesium and calcium, that comprise hard water. Hard water can lead to adverse effects, including causing your skin to dry out after taking a bath or a shower, changing the taste and appearance of your water, leaving scummy residue on fixtures, and making laundry appear dingy after washing.
Which Should You Choose?
Water softeners are effective water treatment solutions that insulate your household from the negative impacts of hard water. When you’re experiencing other difficulties, such as old and outdated plumbing, high bacteria levels, iron staining, or heavy chlorination, you should consider pairing a water softener with a whole house water filter.
Investing in both systems ensures that you can effectively address any potential issues that can arise with your water quality. Whole house filters are incredibly effective, long lasting, and inexpensive, making them an excellent home improvement investment that will preserve your health and property value for many years.
As a homeowner, knowing the difference between water softeners and water filters can assist you in making an informed decision. Alamo Water Softeners can install high-quality water softener systems in San Antonio to guarantee that hard water doesn’t reach your taps. Feel free to reach out to us with any questions about our services.