What’s the difference between a water filter and a water softener?

If you are planning on addressing issues with the water filtration system, you are probably already aware of the terms water filter and water softeners.

But are they the same thing? If not, how are they different? And do you need them both to access quality water?

Now, before you reach out to your water filtration services in Winnemucca let us take a look at the differences between water filters and water softener.

What is a Water Filter?

A water filter is a system that gets rid of dissolved solids in your water to ensure it is safe for consumption. This is an important step that not only improves the taste and smell of your water but also protects you from harmful impurities.

What impurities does a water filter clear out?

Water filters are known for protecting you against impurities like

• Metals- The system purifies your water from lead, arsenic, copper, and others.
• Chemicals- If you can smell chlorine or chloramine in your water, it’s time to buy a water filtration system.
• Organisms- A water filter protects you from harmful bacteria, viruses, and cysts.
• Sediments- With a water filter, you can enjoy water that is free of microplastics such as PFOA, PFOS and VOCs.
• Other harmful chemicals such as pesticides, insecticides, and herbicides are also addressed by water filters.

What are the different types of water filters?

Water filters can be of numerous different types. These include-

1. Whole house filter- this ensures that the water supply throughout the house is free of any impurities by purifying it at the entry point.
2. Under sink filter- these are installed underneath the water sink and can be removed conveniently.
3. Countertop water filter- this filter sits on the countertop and is connected to the tap to dispense fresh and clean water.
4. Shower filter- this removes the chlorine from the water to provide you with a safe showering and bathing experience.

How are the impurities filtered out?

A water filter uses different types of systems and infrastructure to get rid of dirt, debris, and other chemicals. Some of the most common processes are-

• Activated carbon filters- These act as sponges to soak up the dirt and trap them. These are used to remove chlorine, pesticides, and other organic compounds through a process called adsorption.
• Reverse osmosis filters- These use a small membrane that lets only water molecules pass through. Heavy metals and dissolved salts are primarily captured by these filters. We recommend Bruce Mackay’s Eclipse® R.O for advanced water filtration.
• Sediment filters- these filters are used to capture sediments like sand and small rock particles to ensure a clean flow of water.
• UV lamps- if your water houses a large quantity of microbes and germs, they can be sifted out by the UV Lamps in your filter. The Durable UV Disinfection System allows you to get the best of your water without emptying your pockets.

What are water softeners?

Water softeners are used to treat hard water which if left untreated can cause build-up and scaling in plumbing and other appliances.

How is hard water treated?

1. Ion exchange- The most common method used to treat hard water is ion exchange. They replace the hard water salts such as calcium and magnesium with soft water salts such as potassium and sodium. In this process, resin beads coated with softening agents are used.
2. Salt-free water conditioners- For those who do not wish to add salt or any other solution to soften the hard water, a salt-free water solution is the way to go. These are also called template-assisted crystallization (TAC) since they make the minerals stick to them.

What is the primary difference between a water filter and a water softener?

Water filters are known for removing almost every impurity, including chemicals and organisms, owing to their highly advanced technology.
However, water softeners are used to treat hard water that causes scaling and damage to the plumbing system.

Which one should you get?

If you are facing problems with build-up, ring marks around utensils or irritation and drying of skin, it is advisable to opt for a water softener, But, it is important to note that water softeners alone cannot provide you with clean and fresh water. It can only be used as an add-on to your water filter.

If you are looking for purified water that is free of any harmful ingredients, then a water filter is the way to go.

Is your water leaving ring marks behind? Then fret no. Bruce Mackay is the one-stop solution to all your water problems.

Whether you are facing issues with impurities or the quality of your water, Bruce Mackay has a wide range of filters and softeners that ensure the purity of every drop. We provide a comprehensive solution to Hard Water, Iron or Manganese, Reverse Osmosis, Odor or Sulfur, and Bacteria and Viruses to offer excellent water filtration products in Winnemucca.

Our products are made with the highest quality and the best technology, making us the best water filtration services in Winnemucca.