Water Softening Introduction

INTRODUCTION TO WATER SOFTENING

Water softening by "ion exchange" is the most economical way to remove the calcium and magnesium that causes scale deposits in your water-using application.  Depending upon your application, the cost of hard water damage can run into thousands of pounds.  The table below features some common issues which soft water will almost certainly improve.

Boiler	Boiler tube failure due to blockage
	Increased fuel consumption due to poor heat transfer
Cooling Tower	Scale deposits leading to microbiological growth sites non-responsive to disinfection
Washing	Increased soap/detergent use
Process Water	Instability of supply quality leading to product differentiation
Facilities Management	Shower head scale
	Legionella Pneumophila control in non drinking water systems

H₂O Chemicals has the in-house capability to service and repair all makes and models of water softening equipment.  Our service capability is now fully complimented by our new IN2CHANGE range of water treatment plant for all new installations and upgrades.

Points to know about your Softener

• Softener resin has a life expectancy of six to seven years, with most systems showing marked reduction in efficiency after three to four years.  High levels of free chlorine, as added by local water authorities, will oxidise the ion exchange resin in your softener.  If you are in an area of high free chlorine dosing, typified by older water mains, you may find your resin requires replacement sooner.
   
• If left too late, this breakdown of resin will result in hardness reaching your soft water application and the possibility of resin fines contaminating downstream equipment.
   
• Raw Water Hardness can vary seasonally, as much as doubling between summer and winter, depending upon your location in the UK.  In light of this, it is essential that your water softening unit’s function and efficacy are regularly checked throughout the year.

If you feel H₂O Chemicals could be of service for your existing softening plant or a new requirement, please do not hesitate to contact us for a free no-obligation quote.