Improve the Quality of Your Water 

Water softeners are designed to tackle the issue of hard water. Here in Austin, where our water is considered "moderately hard," water softeners are critical to enhance plumbing system longevity and improve water quality in homes and commercial properties. 1st Home & Commercial Services has been providing Austin residents with water softener solutions for over ten years, and our licensed, insured plumbers are dedicated to delivering exceptional service every time. 

Are you tired of hard water damaging your plumbing system? Contact us online or call (512) 957-2992 to find out if a new water softener is a good solution for you.

Understanding Hard Water & Its Effects

Hard water is a common problem caused by high levels of dissolved calcium and magnesium in the water supply. Though not harmful to health, these minerals can cause various issues in our homes. Over time, these effects can lead to costly repairs and increased energy consumption.

The accumulation of mineral deposits, often referred to as scale, can:

• Clog pipes 
• Reduce the efficiency of heating elements in water heaters 
• Shorten the lifespan of household appliances 
• Leave unsightly stains on dishes and faucets
• Diminish the cleaning power of detergents and soaps
• Make cleaning tasks more challenging 
• Lead to dry skin

How Water Softeners Work

Water softeners operate using a process called ion exchange. Hard water passes through a tank filled with resin beads coated with sodium or potassium ions. As the water moves through the beads, calcium and magnesium ions are exchanged with the sodium or potassium ions, softening the water. The softened water is then distributed throughout the plumbing system. 

The resin beads must be replaced periodically, typically every 10-15 years. With older water softeners, you likely won't need to replace your beads before you replace the softener. However, innovations in water softener technologies have led to longer lifespans, meaning new water softeners are expected to last 20+ years.