Hard Water

Pros:

• Mineral-Rich: Hard water contains a higher concentration of minerals, primarily calcium and magnesium. Some people consider this an advantage, as these minerals are essential for good health. Drinking hard water can contribute to your daily intake of these minerals.
• Potential Health Benefits: Some studies suggest that drinking hard water might have a protective effect against cardiovascular diseases and certain types of cancer. The minerals in hard water may play a role in these potential health benefits.
• Enhanced Taste: Many people find that hard water has a more appealing taste compared to soft water, which can taste slightly salty if sodium is added during the softening process.

Cons:

• Scale Buildup: One of the most significant drawbacks of hard water is the tendency to form scale deposits in pipes, appliances, and fixtures. This can reduce water flow, decrease appliance efficiency, and require more frequent cleaning and maintenance.
• Soap Scum: Hard water reacts with soap to form soap scum, which can leave residue on dishes, shower screens, and bathroom surfaces. Cleaning can become more challenging and time-consuming.
• Skin and Hair Issues: Some individuals may experience dry skin and dull, brittle hair when using hard water for bathing and washing. Soap and shampoo may not lather as well in hard water.

Soft Water

Pros:

• No Scale Buildup: Soft water doesn’t contain the minerals that cause scale buildup, which means your pipes, appliances, and fixtures are less likely to suffer from corrosion or reduced efficiency.
• Improved Soap Performance: Soap and detergents work more effectively in soft water, leading to better lathering, cleaner clothes, and less soap scum residue on surfaces.
• Softer Skin and Hair: Soft water can leave your skin feeling softer and your hair shinier because it doesn’t leave behind mineral deposits or interfere with soap’s cleansing action.
• Energy Efficiency: Using soft water can increase the efficiency of water heaters and other appliances, potentially reducing energy bills.

Cons:

• Sodium Content: Water softeners replace calcium and magnesium ions with sodium ions. While the amount of sodium added is typically small and considered safe for most people, individuals on sodium-restricted diets should be cautious.
• Taste Preference: Some individuals may find the taste of soft water less appealing than hard water due to its slightly salty flavour.
• Mineral Removal: Softening water removes essential minerals, which could be a disadvantage if you rely on your water as a significant source of calcium and magnesium.

So Which Is Best: Hard Water or Soft Water?

Weighing the pros and cons of hard vs. soft water, it seems the ideal solution is if you can achieve the best of both worlds. The Halcyan Water Conditioner works by treating the water as it enters your home. It doesn’t remove any mineral content but your water will behave just as soft water does! With Halcyan, you can enjoy just the pros of both hard and soft water while eliminating the cons!

By installing a Halcyan you can achieve:

• Mineral-rich, great tasting water with all its potential health benefits
• Reduction and removal of limescale
• Potential benefits to skin and hair
• Increased energy efficiency and appliance lifespan
• Reduced energy bills
• Less cleaning!

Conclusion

The choice between hard and soft water depends on your preferences and specific needs. While hard water may have potential health benefits and a better taste for some, soft water’s advantages in preventing scale buildup, improving soap performance, and promoting softer skin and hair make it a popular choice for many households. Ultimately, you can make an informed decision by considering your local water quality, personal preferences, and any health concerns.

If you’d like to find out more about the Halcyan Water Conditioner, you can explore our Knowledge Centre and find out how it works here. You can call our expert team on 0345 504 0656 for more information on whether you have hard water and how you can benefit from installing a Halcyan.

Why choose Halcyan?

Halcyan Water Conditioners is a British company based in Bristol and our alloy-based solution to hard water is unique to the UK. Our alloy-based Water Conditioner is an eco-friendly, people-friendly solution to hard water! If you’re wondering whether hard or soft water is better for you and your home, get in touch with us to see how our Halcyan Water Conditioner can help.

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Understanding Hard Water: The Basics

Hard water is a term used to describe water with high mineral content, primarily calcium and magnesium ions. These minerals are picked up as water passes through deposits of limestone and chalk, which are rich in these substances. While hard water is generally safe to drink and use, it can create a series of issues that may prompt homeowners to consider filtration.

The Impact of Hard Water

• Appliance Lifespan: One of the most notable impacts of hard water is its effect on appliances. As a result, when hard water is heated, it can lead to the formation of mineral deposits, commonly referred to as “scale.” Over time, this scale can accumulate in pipes, water heaters, and other appliances, reducing their efficiency and potentially shortening their lifespan.
• Reduced Soap Effectiveness: Hard water reacts with soap to form soap scum, which can be a hassle to clean and can leave a residue on your skin and hair. This means you may need more soap or detergent to achieve the same cleaning effect, resulting in increased costs over time.
• Lathering Issues: Whether it’s washing your hands, doing laundry, or taking a shower, hard water can make it difficult for soap to lather effectively. This can leave you feeling less clean and cause frustration as you attempt to get rid of soap residue.
• Staining and Spots: Hard water can leave behind mineral stains on dishes, glassware, and fixtures. Additionally, it can contribute to water spots on shower doors, windows, and car exteriors, requiring more frequent cleaning.
• Skin and Hair Concerns: Some individuals may find that hard water makes their skin feel dry and their hair less manageable. The mineral buildup can interfere with the natural oils present on your skin and scalp.

Potential Solutions for Dealing with Hard Water

• Water Softeners: A popular solution for dealing with hard water is installing a water softener. Water softeners use ion exchange, effectively reducing the mineral content of the water. This can help prevent scale buildup and alleviate many of the issues associated with hard water.
• Water Conditioners: As a great alternative to water softeners, typically water conditioners don’t require any additional maintenance or salt in order to reduce the impact of hard water. They change the way that hard water behaves in your home, ensuring you get the benefits of soft water.
• Filtration Systems: Filtration systems designed specifically for hard water can also be effective. These systems may use various methods, such as reverse osmosis or polyphosphate sequestration, to remove or reduce the minerals responsible for hardness.
• Magnetic or Electronic Devices: Some alternative approaches claim to “soften” water using magnetic or electronic devices. However, the scientific consensus on the effectiveness of these methods is mixed, and they may not provide consistent results.
• Chemical Additives: Certain chemical additives can bind to minerals in hard water, preventing them from causing scale buildup. While these additives can be useful, they need to be replenished regularly.

Do You Really Need to Filter Hard Water?

The decision to filter hard water ultimately depends on the severity of the issues you’re experiencing and your personal preferences. Here are a few factors to consider:

• Impact on Appliances: If you’ve noticed scale buildup in your appliances or have experienced decreased efficiency, a water conditioner could extend the lifespan of your appliances.
• Cleaning Challenges: If you’re tired of scrubbing mineral stains off dishes, fixtures, and shower doors, a filtration system might be worth the investment to simplify your cleaning routine.
• Skin and Hair Concerns: If you or your family members are experiencing skin dryness, irritation, or hair problems, a water conditioner could improve the overall quality of your daily routines.
• Environmental Impact: Consider the environmental impact of using a water softener. These systems discharge brine into the wastewater, which can affect local water ecosystems. Research eco-friendly options such as the Halcyan Water Conditioner, if minimising environmental impact is a concern.
• Budget: Water softeners and filtration systems come with upfront costs, installation fees, and ongoing maintenance expenses. Evaluate your budget and weigh the long-term benefits against the initial investment.

Conclusion

Hard water can cause a range of inconveniences and issues that might prompt you to consider filtration options. Whichever solution you choose, it’s essential to assess the severity of the problems you’re facing, your budget, and your environmental considerations. Ultimately, the choice to filter hard water comes down to your desire for cleaner dishes, longer-lasting appliances, and an improved overall quality of life.

If you’d like to find out more about the Halcyan Water Conditioner, you can explore our Knowledge Centre and find out how it works here. You can call our expert team on 0345 504 0656 for more information on whether you have hard water and how you can benefit from installing a Halcyan.

Why choose Halcyan?

Halcyan Water Conditioners is a British company based in Bristol and our alloy-based solution to hard water is unique to the UK. Our alloy-based Water Conditioner is an eco-friendly, people-friendly solution to hard water! If you’re looking for ways to improve the efficiency of your home, get in touch with us to see how our Halcyan Water Conditioner can help. With our 30 Year Warranty, you can enjoy the benefits of your investment for many years to come!

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Understanding Hard Water:

To comprehend the impact of hard water on the skin, let’s start by understanding what it actually is. Hard water refers to water that contains a higher concentration of minerals such as calcium, magnesium, and iron. These minerals are acquired as the water passes through soil and rocks, absorbing dissolved particles along the way. Hard water affects homes differently in the UK and while it’s generally safe to drink, its effects on our skin can be a cause for concern.

The Impact on Your Skin:

1. Dryness and Irritation: Studies suggest that one of the primary concerns associated with hard water is its potential to strip away the skin’s natural oils, leading to dryness and irritation. It’s believed that excessive mineral content in hard water can contribute to the disruption of the skin’s natural barrier function, leaving it feeling more susceptible to moisture loss and environmental aggressors. For some, it’s reported that this can result in dry, itchy, and irritated skin, especially for individuals with pre-existing conditions such as eczema, dermatitis and psoriasis.
2. Clogged Pores: It’s also believed that hard water can contribute to clogged pores, which can lead to acne breakouts and other skin blemishes. Those who suffer report a feeling of residue on the skin. Over time, this buildup can lead to congested pores, blackheads, and even acne flare-ups.
3. Dull and Lacklustre Skin: Studies suggest that hard water can also create a film on the skin’s surface, making it feel dull and lacklustre and that this can prevent the natural radiance of your skin from shining through, leaving it looking tired and lifeless.

How can a Halcyan Water Conditioner Help?

The Halcyan Water Conditioner offers an effective solution to combat the potential negative effects of hard water on the skin. Halcyan’s advanced technology employs a unique alloy core which conditions the water. Here’s how it can benefit your skin:

1. Restoring Skin’s Natural Moisture Balance: Softer behaving water can help maintain the skin’s natural moisture balance by reducing the impact of mineral content in hard water. By doing so, they minimise the risk of moisture loss, leaving your skin more hydrated and less prone to dryness and irritation.
2. Promoting Clear and Healthy Complexion: By preventing mineral buildup on the skin, the Halcyan helps keep your pores clean and unclogged. This reduces the chances of acne breakouts and blemishes, promoting a clear and healthy complexion.
3. Enhancing Skin Radiance: With its ability to counter the dulling effects of hard water, conditioned water can also contribute to restoring your skin’s natural radiance, resulting in a brighter and more vibrant appearance.

Conclusion

While it’s believed that hard water can have adverse effects on your skin, particularly in terms of dryness and irritation, treating your hard water with a Halcyan Water Conditioner may help to reduce skin issues. 

Investing in a quality water conditioner is a proactive step toward safeguarding your skin from the potential detrimental effects of hard water. So, say hello to softer behaving water with Halcyan!

If you’d like to find out more about the Halcyan Water Conditioner, you can explore our Knowledge Centre and find out how it works here. You can call our expert team on 0345 504 0656 for more information on whether you have hard water and how you can benefit from installing a Halcyan.

Why choose Halcyan?

Halcyan Water Conditioners is a British company based in Bristol and our alloy-based solution to hard water is unique to the UK. Our alloy-based Water Conditioner is an eco-friendly, people-friendly solution to hard water! If you’re looking for ways to improve the look and feel of your skin, get in touch with us to see how our Halcyan Water Conditioner can help. With our 30 Year Warranty and our 12 Month Money Back Performance Guarantee, you can love the skin you’re in for many years to come!

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Toilets. Why do they matter?

It may come as a surprise to you that 3.6 billion people do not have access to proper sanitation To us a toilet is a simple, maybe unpleasant part of everyday life. Only rally thought about when things go wrong with it. But to those people without access to sanitation it can be the difference between life and death. This thing that we take for granted keeps our water supply clean, protects us from disease and enables us to live dignified and fulfilling lives. Perhaps we should take some time to appreciate our humble toilet?

So what is World Toilet Day?

World Toilet Day is an official United Nations international observance day on the 19th of November. Its aim is to drive action in tackling the global sanitation crisis. The day was first started by the NGO World Toilet Organisation in 2001. Following a concerted effort by the WTO water and sanitation were recognised as an official human right by the UN. The first official world toilet day was held in 2012.

The day is all about raising awareness of this often-underrepresented global health issue and holding policy makers to account. There has also been recent and important focus on the disproportionate impacts a lack of sanitation has on women. This is one of many issues which contribute towards the push for gender equality.

World Toilet Day addresses one of the 17 sustainable development goals, number 6 which is to ‘ensure availability and sustainable management of water and sanitation for all’ by 2030. Sadly the world is far behind this goal. The rate of change needs to be quadrupled in order to meet it.

Give the World Toilet Day official video a watch!

So what can you do?

Its rather simple, take a moment to think about and appreciate your access to effective sanitation and most importantly talk about it. It is a grotty subject but it is hugely important. You can find all the discourse using the official #WorldToiletDay and of course check out the official World Toilet Day website. Also if your toilet is in need of some TLC make sure to give it the looking after it deserves, it really is a lifesaver!

If you want to contribute more seriously why not check out FRANK water? They’re a Bristol based charity who provide water and sanitation to communities in need around the world!

Final Thoughts:

We hope you take the time to gives some thanks for your toilet! If you want to to find out more about the push for sustainability here at Halcyan and in other areas check out some of our other blogs on the subject!

Sustainability and the Environment

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What is Limescale?

So first off what is limescale? It manifests itself as hard deposits on surfaces and in your pipework, these deposits form due to hard water. Hard water, in short, contains moderate to high levels of dissolved minerals, mainly calcium and magnesium. Limescale, put simply, is these minerals after bonding to a surface and building up layers on top of one another. The most plentiful component of limescale is calcium carbonate in its calcite structure.

So is it harmful to consume?

Ingesting limescale may be unpleasant to the palate (not to mention crunchy!) but it isn’t harmful. The minerals which form limescale, magnesium and calcium, are actually very important to the human body. In some areas hard water is actually a supplemental source for these important minerals. So, there’s no need to panic if you accidentally swallow a small flake of limescale in your kettle. Hard water can potentially affect skin and hair but research suggests the effects are not to a degree which could be considered harmful.

So limescale is entirely safe?

Not so fast! Whilst limescale in its purest form might not be bad for you that isn’t to say it can’t be harmful in other ways. Limescale forms wherever hard water flows and rests, the bathroom and the kitchen are major limescale hotspots. When limescale forms it creates a rough layered texture, full of nooks and crannies. It is in these damp areas that bacteria can thrive. If left for too long limescale deposits can become breeding grounds for a range of bacteria. Most aren’t dangerous but a few can be detrimental to human health. Legionella is one of the more dangerous species that loves to make its home in limescale.

Is limescale it harmful to your home?

Whilst limescale causes limited harm to our health it is much more harmful to your home and the appliances within it. Limescale forms more readily at higher temperatures, your kettle is an obvious example of this phenomenon with thick deposits building up throughout the kettle eventually rendering it inoperable. But it isn’t just your kettle which suffers, your boiler, washing machine and dishwasher all have heating elements as key components and in hard water areas these are badly affected. This leads to big bills on replacement and repair of these parts. Not to mention the increased energy costs!

How Limescale Damages Your Home

Final Thoughts:

So, is limescale harmful? Not especially where health is concerned. There is some risk with bacteria breeding in limescale left uncleaned but other than this you shouldn’t worry too much about limescale harming you. Limescale is harmful to your property however and its effects can run up some serious costs. If you’d like a solution to the problems associated with limescale why not take a look at the options available?

How Halcyan Works

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What is a water conditioner?

First off it’s worth briefly touching on what a water conditioner is and what it does. Water conditioners are systems designed to treat limescale, but without using salt like traditional water softeners do. These systems come in a variety of shapes and sizes and use different methods to deal with hard water. The basic goal of theses systems is the same, to treat limescale by altering the way hard water minerals behave rather than by removing them.

Why don’t Water Conditioners remove Chlorine?

Water conditioners don’t remove anything from the water so they don’t remove chlorine. But the systems do alter the way hard minerals behave, so does this affect the chlorine and other chemicals? Sadly not. These systems are specifically designed to target hard water minerals.  As such they have absolutely no effect on other components in the water. Whilst some systems, such as Halcyan, may affect the electrical conductivity of the water, making it feel softer, this doesn’t impact the poor taste caused by chlorine.

How to remove chlorine from your water

So if a water conditioner doesn’t help with chlorine then what does? The systems you should be looking at if removing chlorine and other additives is on the agenda are filters. Water filters are specifically designed to remove things such as chlorine from the water so that it is more pleasant to drink. Filters can come in many forms, from jug based to inline systems. It is important to note that these filter systems (barring expensive reverse osmosis devices) don’t remove hardness from the water. So if you do also want to get rid of your limescale then you’ll need a conditioner alongside your filter. The advantage of this however, is that the working life of your filter will be increased by the conditioner keeping the hard water minerals in solution.

Final Thoughts:

If the taste of your water is affected by chlorine, you’ll need a water filter if you want your tea to taste just right! If you’d like to know more about how the Halcyan water conditioner can help prevent limescale and keep your filter working longer then please check out the rest of our site!

Why not take a look at our most popular water conditioner, the ‘Favourite’ Whole House Unit which can be installed by a plumber in under an hour and protect your home from limescale for 30 years.

Find out more about Halcyan!

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Drinking Hard Water: Good or Bad for your health?

So, what are the effects of drinking hard water on health, if any? Are there any downsides or perhaps benefits to doing so? Sadly, these questions aren’t as easy to answer as you would assume. Despite the fact that the minerals found in hard water are key to a healthy human body.

This area has not received much attention in the scientific community and there are few studies tackling this topic directly. However, we can make some assumptions based on the work that has been done and on the advice of official bodies around the world. It is generally understood that there are no known negative effects from drinking hard water as stated by the WHO in its Geneva Conference.

It is the positive effects where things get a little more complicated. Many health bodies suggest that hard water is an excellent supplemental source for Magnesium and Calcium. There are numerous studies which seem to support this. They show that in areas with hard water there seems to be a positive impact on rates of cardiovascular disease and on some forms of cancer. However, it is important to note that these studies are not conclusive, not enough have been done and many have methodologies which could easily be affected by confounding variables.

One problem that is sometimes linked to hard water is an increased risk of kidney stones. Most evidence points to there being little to no effect on kidney stone formation caused by hard water. Other variables such as genetic risk and dehydration play a much more significant role in the formation of kidney stones.

So what to take away from all of this? The general evidence and advice seems to imply a positive effect from dinking hard water. Especially for people who aren’t getting enough calcium and magnesium through their diets. But more work needs to be done to confirm these health effects. At worst hard water is entirely neutral with no positive or negative impacts.

What about softened water?

So what about drinking softened water? Water softeners remove the hard water minerals from the water and replace them with sodium ions. This means that you lose any potential benefit of ingesting those minerals which you would have had from the hard water. There is also a small risk of increased blood pressure and other issues due to increased sodium intake, though the numbers are so small that this is highly unlikely. Pregnant women and babies should definitely not drink softened water. For these reasons British Water recommend that in properties with water softeners installed that a non-softened tap is left for drinking to avoid increasing the daily sodium intake from the water.

Hard Water: The Other Health Effects

Hard Water and Limescale

It’s clear that hard water causes limescale. While most of us are familiar with the impacts limescale has on our shiny bathroom and kitchen fittings many are unfamiliar with the health ramifications of rampant limescale, especially in areas such as the bathroom.

Limescale is a breeding ground for bacteria and other microorganisms. The rough craggy surface of a limescale deposit is full of nooks and crannies and with plenty of moisture to boot. In these areas bacterial colonies are likely to build up and if left uncleaned and unchecked can form something called a biofilm. This is the familiar reddish slimy film you’ll see in an uncleaned bathroom. A biofilm is a collection of bacteria and microorganisms which have collected together. Other than looking unpleasant a biofilm can permanently stain or pit surfaces and while most of the bacteria in these colonies are fairly benign it, they can be home to more sinister critters such as Legionella.

Hard Water and Skin

Most people in hard water areas will report having problems with dry skin. Does the science back this notion up? As with many subjects relating to hard water there has not been much study on this topic. However, what research has been done suggests that hard water does cause problems with skin. The reason for this appears to be the interaction between the hard water minerals and soaps and shower gel. These products don’t lather nearly as well with hard water. Traces of the product are left on the skin disrupting the skin barrier and blocking pores drying out skin and leading to breakouts in some cases.

There is also a suggestion that hard water increases the chance of eczema developing in young children. Soft and treated water appears to counteract this negative effect by lathering the soap more effectively. This reduces the amount of product left on the skin after a shower or a bath.

Hard Water and Hair

Much like hard waters effect on skin it is also often reported by those of us in hard water areas have problems with our hair. Issues reported include damage to the hair causing it to appear dull, frizzy and brittle. Some even claim that hard water can cause hair loss. So what does the research say about this? Once again there have not been many studies examining the effects of hard water on hair. Those that have been done are contradictory. Some suggest that hard water doesn’t damage the hair at all. Others have shown a clear loss of tensile strength of the hair exposed to hard water. Studies also showed reduced thickness in hair and higher levels of mineral deposits left on the surface of the hair. As with most hard water health issues more research is need before any firm conclusions can be drawn.

Final Thoughts on Health and Hard Water

We hope this article has been useful in summing up the health effects of hard water and given some context to what you may be experiencing in your home. Whilst there is much more work to be done in this field it is clear that hard water is positive in some ways and negative in others. When shopping for a system which deals with hard water be very wary of products which definitively claim that they will help with medical conditions such as eczema. Whilst you may see benefits of that kind, no product on the market is medically certified to do so and therefore cannot guarantee results of this kind.

If you would like to know more about how Halcyan impacts the effects of hard water please check out our FAQ’s below!

All your frequently asked questions!

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Calcium In the Bones

Most of us are aware that calcium is a key component of bone health, but perhaps not how important. 99% of the bodies calcium is stored in the bones and teeth. The development, growth and the continued maintenance of bone is all driven by Calcium. It also repairs damage and helps to slow bone density loss caused by ageing.

Calcium in the Heart and Blood

Calcium is a key component in blood clotting as well as in relaxing smooth muscle surrounding blood vessels. It also plays an important role in heart muscle contraction as well as in maintaining a regular heartbeat. Several studies have found a link between higher intake of calcium and lower blood pressure. However more in-depth study is needed before this benefit can be fully confirmed. There also appears to be some evidence that higher intake of calcium can reduce cholesterol as well.

Calcium in Muscles and Nerves

Calcium is used in muscular contraction. It also helps with nerve signal transmission as well as the release of hormones. Calcium is also an important co-factor for many enzymes which do not function correctly without the mineral.

How much calcium do you need?

It is recommended that adults between the ages of 19-64 need 700mg of calcium a day according to the NHS. You should get all the calcium you require through a normal healthy diet. With dairy being especially high in calcium. Whilst there are benefits to increasing the amount of calcium consumed it is important not to go increase the level too much as this can then become unhealthy. The NHS recommends a maximum daily intake of 1,500mg a day.

Final Thoughts

Whilst calcium can be a menace to your kitchen and bathrooms it is a very important mineral for a healthy body. So do keep in mind that there are health benefits to hard water when looking for a way to deal with your limescale problems. The Halcyan Water Conditioner doesn’t remove calcium from your hard water so you can continue to enjoy the benefits to your health, while reducing the damaging effects of limescale in the home. If you have other questions about hard water and health you may find the answers in our article below!

Find out more!

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In the Bones

60% of the bodies magnesium is stored in the bones where it is not only a component of the bone itself but also helps with bone building cells and the hormone which regulates calcium levels in the bone. Research is being done to see whether magnesium deficiencies affect bone density and risk of fractures.

In the Heart and Blood

Magnesium acts as an electrical conductor in the heart, helping during contraction to help the heart maintain a steady beat. It is also key in regulating blood sugar levels and blood pressure. Magnesium deficiencies have been linked to higher blood pressure and thereby a higher risk of cardiovascular disease such as strokes. There is also a link between diets low in magnesium and an increased risk of type 2 diabetes.

In Muscles and nerves

Magnesium has a role in the movement of potassium and calcium ions across cell membranes which is an important process in muscle contraction and in the conduction of nerve impulses. It also helps to regulate neurotransmitters, which send messages through your brain and nervous system.

How much do you need?

The NHS recommend that adult men should consume 300mg of magnesium a day and women should consume 270mg a day. According to the NHS we receive all the magnesium we need in a normal diet, however some researchers are beginning to argue this may no longer be the case. Professor Davies in the Official Journal of the Society for Environmental Geochemistry and Health argues that the average British adult is not consuming enough daily Magnesium. But drinking hard water, he suggests, is a good source of supplemental magnesium.

Final Thoughts

So whilst you may find the limescale a real nuisance there are some true silver linings in the hard water cloud. When looking for a solution to the limescale issue it is something to keep in mind, are you happy to forego the benefits of hard water or do you want a solution that gets the best of both worlds.

For more info on how hard water affects health check out our all in one guide below!

More about hard water and health!

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What is softened water?

Water softeners work through a process called ion exchange, in brief hard water mineral ions are replaced with sodium ions. This means the concentration of sodium is increased while the ‘hardness’ is decreased. The concentration of sodium in softened water depends on how hard the water is. The harder the water the more sodium. Some softeners can use potassium instead of sodium in their exchange process removing the concern entirely. Managing the amount of sodium we consume is a dietary concern especially for people with high blood pressure. Another concern for people is whether soft water is more corrosive and leaches metals, such as lead into the water.

Soft Water – Corrosion, Leaching and Health

So what do the experts say concerning softened water? As with all things in this industry there is very little objective evidence concerning the subject in one way or another. Where corrosion and leaching is concerned the consensus seems to be that this is not really an issue with softened water as it is with naturally soft water. A couple of studies, such as a pilot study by the EPA in the U.S have shown that softening water does not have a significant impact on the corrosivity of the water. This suggests that leaching of metals from pipework should be a minor concern at the very most.

Soft Water – Sodium Concentration and Health

The DWI, British Water and WRAS all recommend ensuring that a drinking tap is left un-softened in the home. This is also standard practice for most softener installers. But what if for some reason you don’t have a separate drinking tap?  Unless your water is tremendously hard, the sodium content in the water will be relatively low.

However it is important to note that if you suffer from hypertension (high blood pressure) or are diabetic it is important to be much more cautious. Babies also definitely shouldn’t consume softened water, at all, as it can cause some quite serious issues. There are almost no studies on the long term health effects of drinking softened water so whilst we and many others can make educated guesses on its effects, until there is a robust study on the subject nothing is truly conclusive.

Final Thoughts

So is Soft Water Safe for Drinking? Overall drinking softened water shouldn’t be viewed as a serious health hazard. However it’s better to follow current regulations and make sure you do have a separate drinking tap just in case. This becomes far more mandatory if you are in one of the more at-risk groups. Until there is more rigorous study on the impact of softened water on health it is best to play it safe. You could also look into alternatives such as water conditioners where this isn’t an issue, and you are able to drink the same hard water without the associated problems. If you’d like more info on water conditioners then make sure to check out our article on the subject below!

Why not check out our most popular water conditioner, the ‘Favourite’ Whole House Unit. Fit in under an hour by a plumber, this water conditioner will protect your home for 30 years and you don’t need to worry about installing a separate drinking water tap!

What are water conditioners?

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