Water Softeners vs. Whole-House Filtration Systems Wednesday, March 04, 2020

In central Florida, we do not always have the greatest quality tap water. That is why many people choose to install a water filtering system, but there are many different options to decide on when installing a new system, such as whole-house filtration systems or water softeners.

Learn about the difference between water softeners and whole-house filtration systems as well as which one may be the right choice for your property in Plant City, Winter Haven, Lakeland, and surrounding communities.

How a Whole-House Filtration System Works

A water filter is a device that removes impurities from water to purify it. These whole-house systems use different techniques to filter the water, such as:

• Reverse osmosis
• Ion exchange
• Catalytic conversion
• Oxidation

Each type of filtration system works to remove heavy metals, VOCs, chlorine, and other substances from your tap water. Essentially, any type of water filter will work to remove harmful elements so that the water is safer to cook with or to drink. The system distributes filtered water to your bathrooms, kitchen, laundry room, and the rest of the home. Our professional plumbers can help you decide which kind of water filter is best for your home.

Water Softeners Help Remove Hard Water Stains from Appliances

The term water filter encompasses many different strategies to purify water. When you want to install a water softener, however, this is a specific strategy to remove hard water from your property. In other words, water softeners are a type of water filtration. Hard water is high in calcium and magnesium, which leave deposits in your pipes and can damage your appliances.

By installing a water softener, you protect your plumbing and expensive appliances from damage. Hard water can also affect your clothes and makes it more difficult to wash dishes without leaving stains on the glass.

There are two types of water softeners: sodium and salt-free. Depending on your preferences, you can choose which type to install. Salt-free water softeners are an ideal choice for those who may have health concerns, as the other type does create water that is higher in sodium content.

Water Filters vs. Water Softeners

In a nutshell, water softeners are a type of water filter, while water filters describe many different options that are available for your home. It's up to you and your family to decide which type of water filter best suits your needs—whether you want hard water removed from your home or you need a different type of impurity removed, there are types available to address them all.

If you are experiencing any issues with the water in your central Florida home, our plumbers can help.

When water smells bad, leaves stains, or tastes odd, those are key indicators that your home needs some type of water filtration. At True Plumbers & AC, we install water filters, water softeners, and more to help alleviate any issues with tap water in central Florida homes. We work with properties throughout Lakeland, Plant City, Winter Haven, and more. Contact our plumbers at (863) 667-6364 for an estimate!