If you’re experiencing hard water, you may have considered using a PUR filter to soften it. Unfortunately, despite their effectiveness at removing harmful contaminants, PUR filters are not capable of softening water.
This means that if you’re dealing with the negative effects of hard water, such as dry skin and hair or soap scum on your dishes, you’ll need to explore other options for softening your home’s water.
In this article, we’ll explore the reasons why PUR filters can’t soften water and provide you with information about your options for dealing with hard water. Whether you’re a homeowner or renter, it’s important to understand the issues associated with hard water and what you can do to address them.
So, if you’re tired of dealing with the negative effects of hard water, read on to learn more about how you can improve the quality of your home’s water.
Key Takeaways
– PUR filters cannot remove significant quantities of calcium or magnesium from water.
– Hard water can cause damage to pipes, reduce water flow, and lead to costly repairs or replacements.
– A point-of-use or point-of-entry water softener system can help soften water by using ionized beads to draw away calcium and magnesium and replace it with sodium ions.
– PUR filters are adept at removing various harmful minerals and substances from tap water, such as lead, mercury, arsenic, and even trace quantities of hormones, pesticides, and medications, but cannot meaningfully filter calcium and magnesium from water.
What is Hard Water?
You may already know that PUR filters can’t remove significant amounts of calcium or magnesium from water, but did you know that these minerals are what make water “hard”?
Hard water is defined by its high levels of calcium and magnesium, which come from natural sources. While these minerals are safe and beneficial in natural quantities, hard water can cause several issues. These issues include reducing soap effectiveness, leaving spots on glass, damaging pipes, reducing water flow, and leading to costly repairs or replacements for appliances.
However, hard water also has some benefits. The high mineral content can contribute to better-tasting water and provide some health benefits, such as promoting bone health. But overall, the negative effects of hard water tend to outweigh the positive.
If you’re experiencing issues with hard water in your home, it’s worth considering a water softener system to help eliminate calcium and magnesium and prevent costly damage to your appliances.
Problems with Hard Water
Experiencing the effects of hard water, such as skin irritation and damaged hair, can be frustrating and costly. Not only does hard water decrease the effectiveness of soap and shampoo, but it can also leave spots on glass and damage pipes, leading to costly repairs or replacements.
However, it’s important to note that hard water does come with some benefits. The high levels of calcium and magnesium in hard water can provide essential minerals for your body.
If you’re looking for DIY solutions for reducing water hardness, there are a few options available. One option is to use a water softening showerhead that has a built-in filter to reduce the mineral content in the water. Another option is to make a vinegar solution and soak your showerhead in it for several hours, which can help dissolve mineral buildup.
Additionally, you can use a homemade soap with a higher pH level, which can help counteract the effects of hard water on your skin and hair.
Options for Softening Water
Consider using a point-of-use or point-of-entry water softener system, or a reverse osmosis or water distillation unit to eliminate calcium and magnesium from your home’s water.
Point-of-use systems are relatively affordable and can be attached to an existing tap or showerhead. These systems use ionized beads to draw away calcium and magnesium and replace them with sodium ions. The result is softer water that’s gentler on skin and hair and more effective for washing dishes and clothes. However, the sodium levels in softened water might not be suitable for those with high blood pressure or sodium intake restrictions.
On the other hand, point-of-entry water softener systems attach to plumbing in your basement and soften all water in your pipes. These systems are more expensive than point-of-use systems but are ideal for large households that use a lot of water.
Like point-of-use systems, they use ionized beads to remove calcium and magnesium and replace them with sodium ions. The result is softer water that’s beneficial for your pipes, appliances, skin, and hair. However, it’s important to note that the sodium levels in softened water might not be suitable for those with high blood pressure or sodium intake restrictions.
Using PUR Filters for Safe Water
To ensure the safety and tastiness of your tap water, it’s important to use reliable filtration methods such as PUR filters. PUR filters are great for removing harmful minerals and substances from tap water, including lead, mercury, arsenic, and even trace quantities of hormones, pesticides, and medications. They can also eliminate chlorine and improve the taste and smell of your tap water.
However, it’s important to note that PUR filters have limitations when it comes to softening water. They cannot meaningfully filter calcium and magnesium from water, which are the main minerals that cause water hardness. If you’re dealing with hard water, it’s best to invest in a water softener system, either for individual taps or for the entire home.
But for safe and tasty drinking water, PUR filters are a great option.
Conclusion
So, there you have it – PUR filters can’t soften your hard water. While they’re excellent at removing harmful contaminants, they’re not designed to tackle the mineral buildup that causes hardness.
But don’t worry, there are still plenty of options available to you. You could consider investing in a water softener system, or try using a citric acid cleaner to break down the mineral buildup in your pipes.
Whatever your choice, it’s important to take action to tackle hard water. Not only can it cause dry skin and hair, but it can also leave unsightly stains on your dishes and surfaces.
With the right solution, you can enjoy all the benefits of clean, soft water in your home.
