First, let us clarify the idea of a replacing a traditional water softener with a salt free water softener is misleading in its presentation. The term “salt free water softener” is used because that is what people call a “water conditioner.” They are unfamiliar with the term “water conditioner” and the water conditioning concept so salt free water softener is the term used to describe it.
Nevertheless, let us be very clear… The only true way to make soft water is with the use of SALT. Therefore, a “water conditioner” is NOT A WATER SOFTENER… technically. However, a conditioner can solve the same hard water scale issue a softener can and do MORE. Also, be aware our competitors might tell you their water filtration systems will “soften” your water, but we will never say that because it is untrue.
When it comes to a water conditioner vs water softener shootout, in most situations, the conditioner wins because it is a more versatile device. The softener is a one trick pony. It makes soft water. Below we give examples as to why our conditioner is a better fit.
A salt free water conditioner does just that. It “conditions” the water. At Pure Elements, our proprietary catalytic converter has a series of fins on its core, which expose its surface area. This allows the water to meet with a larger surface area. A catalytic conditioner permanently alters the state of the calcium carbonate (the primary hard water component), greatly reducing its ability to form hard water scale. This is accomplished without the addition of salt or foreign chemicals, does not create slimy The conditioner can then permanently change the state of the hard water. Therefore, it lessens these issues in the home. (Call and ask us for the scientific explanation if you wish.)
In water softening system reviews for softeners by Culligan, Pelican, and Sears, you will find that they can cut out hard water issues like scaling. They can help with laundry and detergent use as does a conditioner. In addition, depending on the level of iron in the water, softeners can reduce or remove some iron. A conditioner will not remove iron but, other water treatment system adjustments can sometimes take care of it. In situations such as homes drawing water from wells, iron is a concern and this why water softening systems are common with people who are on well water.
The disadvantages of water softening systems are significant. For one, the water is too salty to drink. We get enough salt in our diet as it is. People who have health conditions or who are concerned about too much salt will find drinking water from a softener to be inconvenient and unappealing. They would need a separate drinking water filter.
Another big disadvantage to water softeners is they flush out the excess salt. This salt causes problems with sewage plants because they cannot process it. The salt theoretically ends ups causing ecological damage. Several states have cities and counties that are banning or limiting the use of softeners because of the problems and continued potential problems. That is probably reason enough to consider an alternative unless you can afford to buy a conditioner system in the future if softeners are outlawed entirely.
Note: We must mention that we have clients who have skin issues and require a softener. Softeners do work in conjunction with our HealthyHome Solution filter when they are set up correctly. We prefer not using softeners because of the ecological damage the salt flush can cause but we are here to service our clients so we help those special needs.
Softeners do not filter water on their own. If you want to remove harmful chemicals, chlorine, chloramines, and other contaminants, a Culligan, Sears, or Pelican softener must be married with a home water filtration system. Please do not be sold a softener if your goal is filtration. They are two different things.
Two more disadvantages to softeners are they take up a lot of space and need much maintenance. Softening systems need to be refilled with 50-pound bags of salt regularly. Those bags need storage space.
Look at the before and after pictures below. The softener is tucked next to the water heater with all the salt bags. The other part of the system was in the cabinet next to the heater. This Newport Beach install replaced the softener because the client did not like to constantly refill the salt. They also did not like the slimy feel of the water. It felt like soap never came off their skin.
A HealthyHome Solution water filter was installed to take care of their 4800 square foot home. This particular whole house filter is fitted with an additional Fluoride, Arsenic, and Chromium 6 removal tank. Notice how much cabinet space they gained back.
Softeners are also not good for pets, landscaping, spas, Koi ponds, swimming pools, or other water features.
All the disadvantages that water softeners suffer are problems solved by salt free water conditioners and our product. This is why we feel replacing a softening system with salt free water conditioner is the way to go.