If you’ve noticed your hair is always extra dry after a shower, or can’t seem to get rid of those stubborn streaks on your glassware, you’re not alone. Hard water is a common challenge for residents all over Edmonton. Fortunately, one of the most effective ways to combat it is by installing a water softener.
Continue reading with us at Weiss-Johnson, as we discover more about what water softeners do, and help you decide if installing one is right for your home. Let’s dive into the details below!
What Is a Water Softener and How Does It Work?
A water softener is a household water system which ‘softens’ hard water by neutralizing excess minerals, notably calcium and magnesium. These minerals, though harmless to health, can still have unwanted consequences at home.
Here are Health Canada’s hard water guidelines, which measure water hardness in milligrams per litre (mg/L) of calcium carbonate.
| Water Hardness Level | Calcium Carbonate (mg/L) |
| Soft | 0 to 60mg/L |
| Medium-Hard | 60 to 120ml/L |
| Average Hard | 120 to 180ml/L |
| Extremely Hard | 180mg/L |
Understanding Hard Water in Edmonton: Is It a Real Problem?
Despite Edmonton’s hard water supply, it’s still perfectly acceptable to use on a daily basis. The city of Edmonton’s water treatment facilities treat an average of 350 ML of water every day with minerals.
The exception to this rule is if you’re on a well system. Well systems are commonly found in the rural areas around Edmonton, particularly around acreages and farms. Unlike water treated with the municipal water system, private well water is typically much harder. Well water is pulled directly from underground aquifers, which often contain minerals that have been leached from surrounding rock.
Unlike water treated within the city, well water can have more pronounced effects, including severe scaling in appliances and pipes.
If you receive your water from a well system, seek water testing to see if you need a water softener or other treatment. Professional water testing gives you a closer look at your water’s quality levels, and will tell you essential information, including:
- Water hardness levels
- Bacteria levels
- pH Levels (Is your water acidic or basic?)
Once water testing is complete, you’ll get a full picture of your water quality. Then you can make an informed decision about whether you should install a water softener.
Water Softeners in City Limits: Is it Worth it?
If you’re connected to Edmonton’s municipal water supply, you may be wondering if a water softener can still benefit you. The truth is, water softeners in most cases are usually a personal choice. There are a few benefits of installing a water softener for your home:
- Water softeners are a top solution to hair breakage and dry skin caused by hard water. It can make a notable difference in day-to-day life, especially in Alberta’s dry climate.
- Streak marks and residue on glassware and other surfaces are common effects of hard water. Water softeners help to combat this.
- Over time, minerals from hard water can clog pipes and household appliances. While you are able to descale this deposit buildup, water softeners prevent much of this buildup, saving you both time and money.
Our Superior Water Softener Solution
At Weiss-Johnson, we offer the WG 185UF High Efficiency Water Softener. Designed for everyday homes, this water softener features top-of-the-line technology. With an NSF Certified electronic control valve and a fully backlit LED display, this water softener offers ultimate control at your fingertips. The WG 185UF utilizes a 48-hour memory backup, with fully adjustable cycle times as well, so you can set it and forget it.
End the Hard Water Hassle with Weiss-Johnson
If you’re curious about how to best deal with hard water in your home, look no further than Weiss-Johnson. Proudly established and fully-operated in Edmonton since 1977, we’re your local HVAC and plumbing specialists for almost 50 years. Get in touch with us today to receive expert support and experience the Weiss-Johnson difference for yourself.
