A water softener is a device that removes dissolved minerals from water, such as calcium and magnesium. This is important because these minerals can cause scale buildup in pipes and appliances, which can reduce their efficiency and lifespan. Hard water can also be harsh on skin and hair, and can make it difficult to get soap to lather.
Water softeners work by exchanging the dissolved minerals for sodium or potassium ions. This process is called ion exchange. The water softener contains a resin bed made of tiny beads that are coated with sodium or potassium ions. When hard water passes through the resin bed, the dissolved minerals attach to the beads and the sodium or potassium ions are released into the water. The softened water then exits the water softener and is distributed throughout the home.
