Water Softener

[Sneakers]

Don't understand the comment about the appliances. Some of our friends have lived here for better than 15 years w/o either an RO or water softener and they don't seem to have any issues with appliances failing prematurely. Perhaps someone would have more of an explanation.

The valves in appliances such as ice-makers, dishwashers, washing machines, etc tend to be small-flow devices generally made from plastic. The high calcium content in the water (here) plugs them up over time necessitating replacement. If your friends have not had to deal with this, well, they are very lucky.

My house is less than 6 years old. I have already had to replace every valve (shower/faucet) in the house. I have also had to replace all of the major appliances (which I did **after** installing a water softener).

Bottom line: Water softeners are a good thing, but you are right, the salt usage is a real PITA (I go through about 40lbs/mo because the water here is so brutal).

[OneConservative]

Thanks for the explanation. Maybe their water supply is different than in town.

[KendoPt4]

In three years we had an ice maker on a 7 year old fridge crap out on us, that's about it. I've never owned a soft water system but the new house we've moving into has one. Not sure if it works or not, I'll have to get someone out to check the thing.

[KendoPt4]

Got it serviced, found out it is a $4000 Kinetico system. **** is cash.

I am happy with my increased sodium levels. My hair still feels wet, though.

[SmartAlec]

With water softener I find you have to use much less shampoo and conditioner otherwise it takes forever to get the rinse done. I also use less laundry detergent due to this

[The Ol' Librarian]

A water softner would be a luxury. If you can afford it and just want soft water....go for it Living here many years, we have not NEEDED a softener. We bought an under the sink RO system (Costco) and have the furnished nice faucet at the sink. Then, ran a hidden line over to our ice maker. Works fine for years. The COSTCO on Elliot/freeway carries the system and replacement filters (a year's worth in a box). All available on Costco website. No problems for years.

Appliances--never had any damage from hard water that I know of. Some racks inside my dishwasher show some rust in places and there are products available to paint those or actually cover them. We do that.

Current, good dishwashing soaps have softner in their little packets. If I have a really full load....use 2. End result is always very good.

We have never seen or felt the need for a softener system.

[The Ol' Librarian]

I totally forgot about this. I know there are people out there that love all stainless steel appliances. Hard water IS a nightmare for them. This is a different catagory. And I have seen what can happen. I used CLR to make my daughter's sink look like new. And you need to keep any water wiped and dried quick.

[KendoPt4]

It broke. Kinetico customer service sucks. Back to hard water.