Hard water is a common issue for many homes in Northern Illinois. But a correctly sized water softener can prevent most of the common hard water problems. But how large should a water softener be for your household’s needs?

Below, this Pentair water softening contractor in Wauconda, Illinois is going to explain the basics of water softener sizing, and what size softener is typically best for a family of four.

Water softeners play a major role in protecting plumbing systems and household appliances from the damaging effects of hard water. Like any household appliance, however, a water softener will eventually wear out after years of continuous use.

Below, this Pentair water softening company in Burr Ridge, Illinois is going to explain the typical lifespan of a water softener. We will also discuss some key factors that can affect how long a water softener continues to perform effectively.

Many homeowners notice the visible effects of hard water, but few realize the damage it can cause inside appliances like water heaters. Below, this Pentair water softening company in Libertyville, Illinois is going to explain how hard water can affect your water heater and its performance over time.

Water quality plays a big role in your water heater’s performance. Hard water is very common in the Algonquin area, and over time, it can make your water heater less efficient. Below, this Pentair water softening contractor in Algonquin, Illinois is going to explain exactly how hard water affects your water heater.

Hardness is only one aspect of water quality…While a softener may remove hardness from your water extremely well, but it doesn’t handle everything else that may be present in a municipal water supply. With that said, as a homeowner, it’s important to be aware of the difference between ‘softening’ and ‘filtration’.

This Pentair water softening company in Cortland, Illinois is going to highlight those differences below.

Modern water softeners are designed to handle tough water conditions. But does that mean that they can take care of themselves forever? Not at all.

Minerals like calcium and magnesium, dissolved iron, sediment and naturally occurring organic material can build up inside your water softener over time. The softener could still technically run, but it will not be running at its best when that happens.

Regular sanitizing can be a good way to restore your softener’s efficiency and improve its performance. Below, this Pentair water softening contractor in Grayslake, Illinois is going to explain what sanitizing involves, and how regularly you should do it.

If you or someone in your household follows a low-sodium diet, you may have questions about softened water. One concern some homeowners have is whether water softeners add sodium to your drinking water — and, if they do, whether that extra sodium makes the water unsafe for you.

This situation can feel confusing when health concerns are part of your decision. Looking for some clarity? This Pentair water softening company in Vernon Hills, Illinois is going to explain how the softening process works, and where sodium enters the picture.

When shopping for water softeners, most people tend to prioritize brand names and available features. However, water testing should come before you choose a particular water softener, and it is considered one of the most important steps of the process. Below, this Pentair water softening contractor in Woodridge, Illinois is going to explain why water testing plays such a critical role when buying a water softener. 

One of the most common questions people ask after scheduling a water softener installation is how quickly they will notice a difference in their water. After all, investing in a new system comes with the expectation that everyday water use will feel noticeably better.

Below, this Pentair water softening company in Oswego, Illinois is going to explain what typically happens right after installation, and what you can expect in the hours and days that follow.

If you are researching water treatment options for your home, you may notice that the terms “soft water” and “conditioned water” are used interchangeably. Although they sound similar, these terms do not mean the same thing. Learning the difference between them is how you make the best decision when choosing the right water treatment system for your home.

Below, this Pentair water softening contractor in Glen Ellyn, Illinois is going to explain the difference between soft water and conditioned water.