WATER SOFTENING SYSTEMS TO AVOID
Most any water technician will tell you that something is better than nothing, but there are definitely some systems to avoid.The ultimate decision to use in deciding on a system, is
WHAT QUALITY OF WATER DO I WANT COMING INTO MY HOME!
Better equipment in the long run will give you better water. One of my favorite quotes:
“The bitterness of poor quality is remembered long after the sweetness of low price has faded from memory.”
1. Proprietary Systems:
These systems may be built well but are made to generate income for the Dealer because you can’t buy parts anywhere else. Sometimes even within the same geographical area. The protected territories don’t protect the consumer only the business. This becomes an issue if the dealer closes shop, you don’t like the dealer or other various issues. You can usually buy some of these systems a bit cheaper but in the long run you may end up paying way beyond the norm for services or repairs.
2. Softener Only Systems:
Softener technology has progressed and so have the contaminants in the water. The biggest trouble with Softener only units is that Chlorine lowers the life of the resins so the life is reduced significantly. We need to be willing to learn about what is in the water, and treat the water. A conditioning system with carbon will protect the resins and also remove many other things from the water.
3. Non-Salt Systems:
These units depending on the type of unit may not give you adequate softening. Some systems claim to be NON-SALT but use potassium. Potassium is so much more expensive. See the article on this site;
Note: if you are adding Potassium you can switch to salt! Multi staged units are great in that you can tailor the system to better handle the water. It also gives you better water.
4. NON-DIR Systems:
DIR stands for Demand Initiated Regeneration. In some areas of the country non-DIR systems are actually illegal to use where you have a cesspool or septic draining system. Systems that use a timer or mechanical valves are not recommended. They don’t clean themselves according to the demand or condition of the water. The best systems use a programmable head that allows for adjustments based on the water. This becomes an added benefit because your system can be fine-tuned or adjusted giving you the best most efficient operation.
5. On-Line Systems:
Water treatment systems purchased on-line may look good but may not deliver the exact needs for your area or your home. Warranty work becomes costly and the adjustments needed may never be done so you get poor performance from the equipment and that can lead to premature failure.
To get the best possible water it is still best to use a reputable dealer who understands water and water filtration systems. You can always ask for referrals from their customer base.