Haferman Water Conditioning | Twin Cities MN

Haferman Water Conditioning supplies Twin Cities MN homes and businesses with the finest quality water and service, and a wide range of Kinetico products. Official website: Haferman Water Conditioning On Facebook On Twitter On Google+ Local

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Why Is My Water Softener Not Using Salt Or Using Too Much?

You might say that, to your water softener, brine is the elixir of life – that perfect balance of water and salt that allows your appliance to transform hard water into soft. So, if your water softener is not using salt, or it’s using too much, things won’t go well. There are a number of possible reasons your water softener might not be using the right amount of salt, and fortunately, most are easy to fix.

Here are some common problems related to salt, along with our tips on how to correct them.

Salt Build-Up or Bridge

Is your water softener working, but not softening? Is it not regenerating as expected? Look inside your brine tank. If you see salt collecting on the interior wall, there may also be a salt bridge – a hardened crust of salt that forms above the water when the sodium sticks together instead of dissolving. This prevents the salt and water from forming the brine required for softening.

To fix, you can try removing the lid, grabbing the brine tank and shaking back and forth to see if that removes the bridge. If that doesn’t work, you can try using a sturdy but not sharp tool such as a broom handle to carefully break up the salt deposits. (Tempting as it might be to use an ice pick for this, you could easily damage or even puncture the tank.) Then scoop out the chunks and wipe any salt residue from the tank interior, and your water softener should be back in business. (Tip: After you do this, make sure to refill the salt!)

If your drinking water tastes salty, check to make sure that there is not a pinch in the drain hose. It’s also possible that minerals have built up in the drain hose (especially if you have rusty water), which can cause pressure problems resulting in salty water. (If so, remove the hose, then clean and replace it.)

Salt Level Is Too High (or Water Is Too Low)

Your water softener uses salt as it works, but you should see about 3-4 inches of salt above the water level in your tank. Less than that – especially if you can see the water surface – means it’s time to replenish the salt. More than that could mean you’re adding too much salt, which is wasteful and encourages crusty build-up.

Ideally, you should fill salt to an appropriate level for your household, then let the salt drop until you see the water level in the brine tank. Then refill to half-full or full depending on how fast salt is used in your home.

It’s also a good idea to check the float valve that controls water level/intake, to be sure the water level itself is correct and that water can flow in and out as required. If the float valve is faulty or out of adjustment, there’s a good chance you can fix it yourself.

Check for Running Toilets

Remember, your water softener is connected to the rest of your water system. If it’s using a lot of salt, it might mean you have a toilet that’s running constantly. This will deplete the salt very quickly and can be quite common if you have a bathroom that doesn't get much use.

Operator Error

Double-check the settings. For example, if your unit has a clock-style timer, it may be scheduled to regenerate more often than necessary.  

The Salt Itself May Be the Problem

Did you know that there are good salts and not-so-good salts for water softeners?

Right Size – Table salt and other fine-grained salts dissolve too quickly to use in a water softener (and block salt doesn’t dissolve fast enough to maintain the proper brine). Salt crystals and pellets are the most efficient. Pellets are least likely to clump up and form salt bridges.

Right Type – Rock salt retains mineral content other than sodium. That reduces its effectiveness when it comes to ion exchange, which is vital to water softener function. Solar salt (evaporated naturally from seawater) is about 99.6% pure, but even that small amount of remaining impurities can interfere with optimal operation.

Here at Haferman, we recommend evaporated salt. It is virtually 100% pure because moisture is extracted using heat, so it is the most efficient type of salt and least likely to cause salt bridges.

Finding Your Salt Balance

You may know that dual tank water softeners like the Kinetico models go through a lot less salt than single tank softeners. In fact, the Kinetico Premier Series S650 XP was recently named the World’s Most Efficient Water Softener, based on NSF/ANSI Standard 44 testing for grains of hardness removed per pound of salt.

Still, we realize things can go wrong with any water softener. If you aren’t able to troubleshoot or fix your salt problem on your own, we’re here to help. It’s easy to give us a call, and you can be sure you’ll get the right diagnosis and solution.

[hafermanwater]

How to Remove a Water Softener Salt Bridge

Have you noticed your water softener isn't working as efficiently as it used to? Look inside. If you see a crusty salt buildup in the brine tank, that's a salt bridge and it's a common issue. Fortunately, there’s a fix for that, and you can easily do it yourself!

Especially when the humidity is high (hello, Minnesota summer!) or if there is too much salt in your brine tank, salt pellets will stick together, forming a solid crust that creates an empty space between the salt and the water in the bottom of the tank. Now the water softener cannot make brine because the salt cannot reach the water to dissolve. When there’s no brine, the resin bed cannot regenerate effectively. The salt just sits there, and your water is no longer softened. That won’t do! So here’s how to remove a water softener salt bridge.

Remove a Salt Bridge in 7 Steps

Turn off the water supply to your softener. It doesn’t matter whether you do that by adjusting the bypass valve or simply shutting off the incoming ball valve (shut off valve).  

Locate a long tool you can use to break up the salt bridge. A broom or mop handle usually works great.

Insert the end of the handle in the brine tank and use it to chip away at the salt crust. Think “gently but firmly.” Do not use more force than necessary, and be very careful not to touch the inside of the brine tank itself. You want to break the salt bridge, not the tank. That said, if the broom handle isn’t doing the job, look for something else to use that might be heavier and/or sharper. Keep in mind, some brine tanks have platforms on the bottom at various heights - be sure not to break them.

As you work, use something like a plastic container to scoop out salt chunks at the surface.

Once you have all the salt out, use a wet/dry shop vac to remove the water from the bottom of the tank.

Now add fresh salt to the tank – not more than half full – and turn the water back on.

Add about 10 inches of water back in to the tank.

Set your water softener to regenerate (check your owner’s manual to learn how, if necessary), and you should be enjoying soft water again soon.

Maybe your salt is at fault

If you’re having repeated problems with salt bridges, the salt itself might be your problem. Not all water softener salt is the same – not by a long shot! It comes in different shapes, sizes, and purity levels. Quality counts, so your water softener can work as efficiently as possible and your family can enjoy the softest, best-tasting water possible. Read here to learn what type of water softener salt is best for your system.

What if the problem is not a salt bridge?

As with all appliances, over time your water softener may develop other problems. That’s why regular inspection is so important. Our troubleshooting guide can help you diagnose (and, often, easily remedy) the problem. And of course, you can always give us a call for help at any time.

[hafermanwater]

What is a Water Softener Pre-Filter and Why Does My System Need One?

You may know that the resin beads in your water softener attract hard minerals and remove them from your water, but did you know that your water softener may also have a pre-filter? And if it doesn’t have one now, should it? What does a water softener pre-filter do, anyway? The answer (and that pre-filter) may lead you to even better water quality.

Why Do You Need a Pre-Filter?

We soften our water for many reasons. The first reason that comes to mind for most people is the damage that minerals (like calcium or magnesium) can do to our appliances, laundry, skin, and hair. However, softening doesn’t remove every chemical compound, which is where a pre-filter comes in.

A water softener pre-filter can remove:

Physical impurities such as sediment, rust or other undissolved particles

Chemicals that affect taste or odor, such as chlorine and chloramines or hydrogen sulfide

Discoloring chemicals such as iron and manganese

These substances can build up in your water softener and cause inefficient operation or even damage. Eliminating those impurities protects your water softener’s performance and longevity in addition to improving the aesthetic quality of your water.

Different Types of Water Filters

There are typically two types of pre-filter: sediment and carbon. The best pre-filter for your home depends on what you want to remove from your water.

Sediment pre-filters are typically used on well water. They act like a sieve to remove particles (or sediment) like iron, manganese, rust, etc. If sediment/particulates are prevalent, you could choose a multi-stage system that uses a series of filters that gradually change from coarse to fine.

Carbon pre-filters are typically used on municipal or city water. They remove contaminants or impurities through the use of activated charcoal and chemical adsorption. Carbon pre-filters are particularly efficient at removing or reducing the odor from the presence of chlorine in water.

When Should You Clean the Filter?

Just like the air filter in your HVAC system or the air and fuel filters in your car, your water softener pre-filter will get dirty. Whether you should clean or replace the filter, and how often, depends on the type of pre-filter you have as well as overall household water usage. In general, experts recommend that sediment filters be replaced (or cleaned) every 3-6 months.

Some filters are reusable, so when they get full (or dirty, as we might say), you can remove them for cleaning and then replace them. However, depending on the filter and water it's filtering, some can get very dirty very quickly, so we often recommend using disposable filters, instead.

What should you look for? If you notice a change in water color or taste, it’s probably time to clean the filter. If there's a gradual decrease in water pressure, that’s another good sign that you might need to change your filter... or at least check it. You can also visually check your filter periodically and, over time, determine what cadence is optimal for your household.  

Call Us for a Consult

Testing your water is the first step toward determining what type of pre-filter will make the best companion for your water softener, to produce optimal overall results. You can buy a test kit at the store or online. Or just give us a call and one of our Haferman Water Conditioning pros will come out and test your water and make some recommendations for you.

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8 Water Treatment Questions to Ask a Pro Before Buying a Water Softener

If you're in the market for a water softener, you know the right system will greatly improve water quality throughout your household. The more you know about your options before you buy, the better the investment you will make. It pays, in every sense of the word, to ask a pro. They can answer water treatment questions you might not have thought to ask.

Here are some questions homeowners commonly ask us, along with some brief answers.

1. WHY DO I NEED A WATER SOFTENER?

Here in Minnesota, most of us have hard water, though the hardness levels vary. Installing a water softener is the only truly effective way to remove the hardness-causing minerals (primarily calcium and magnesium) cause nasty yellow stains on your clothes from your household water.

Left untreated, the minerals (scale) from hard water can clog up pipes, fixtures, appliances and hot water heaters. Those minerals also show-up as hard water spots on glassware and dishes, cause nasty yellow stains on your clothes, and create soap scum that leads to dry hair and itchy skin.

That said, if your main concern is the water you drink and cook with, you should consider installing a water filtration system in your kitchen.

[CLICK HERE TO READ ABOUT THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN WORKING WATER AND DRINKING WATER]

2. HOW DO I KNOW HOW HARD MY WATER IS?

Testing your water is a great starting point. This way you’ll know not only the level of hardness but also what chemicals and other impurities are present in your water. You can buy an inexpensive basic test kit at a home improvement store, or you can call us. Have a pro do the testing for the most detailed information about your water.

3. DO SALTLESS SYSTEMS WORK?

They are not nearly as effective at softening water as systems that use salt. Click here to read more on salt vs. saltless systems for your home.

4. WILL WE EVER RUN OUT OF SOFT WATER TO SHOWER, ESPECIALLY WHEN WE HAVE COMPANY OVER?

(Or, conversely: It’s just the two of us, we don’t need a huge, expensive system, do we?) Size definitely matters. A system that is too big for your needs can be a waste by using extra salt and electricity for unnecessary regeneration, but a too-small system won’t be able to keep up with your needs. A pro can help you calculate optimal capacity for your family’s everyday needs, however, if you have company often, a higher capacity system may make more sense. On the other hand, dual-tank water systems never run out. One tank of soft water is always available while the other is regenerating.    

5. HOW LONG DO WATER SOFTENERS LAST?

A top quality system can last for almost 20 years – if it is sized correctly and you maintain it properly. Always check out the warranty, because good companies stand by their product with a great warranty.

6. WHAT MAINTENANCE IS REQUIRED?

For example, how much salt and water does it use (which relates to how often it regenerates)? Not all systems are the same, and the type and amount of maintenance affects your ultimate cost as well as your time commitment. Note: dual-tank water softeners actually use a lot less salt because the twin softening tanks allow the system to regenerate with soft water.

7. WHAT IS THE COST OF OWNERSHIP (AND ULTIMATE PAYBACK) FOR THIS SOFTENER?

Many of the most obvious benefits a water softener provides are aesthetic. Your water will look better and you’ll spend a lot less time scrubbing fixtures and dishes. You can stop fighting dry skin and brittle, tangled hair.

The right system will deliver all those wonderful results as cost-effectively as possible. Your dishwasher, water heater, and washing machine will last far longer and perform far better than they can with hard water. Your clothing and household linens will look and feel better and last longer without fading or discoloration.

8. WHY SHOULD I BUY FROM YOU?

While the product you choose and cost of ownership affect your ROI, so does the company you buy from. How long have they been in business? Do the installers work for them? A stable business with a reputation for quality will give you advice you can trust. And with a full-service business that does their own installations, you can trust that your water softener will be properly set-up to give you optimal performance.

Ready to learn more? Give us a call!

[hafermanwater]

Copper, Zinc, Iron, Oh My! Why Do I Have Metallic Tasting Water?

Depending on where you live and the source of your household water, you may notice that your water has a specific “flavor.” For many people, though, the water that comes from their tap tastes metallic. It might be subtle, or it might be very noticeable. But, why do you have metallic tasting water? And, is there anything you can do about it?

Some minerals and other chemicals found in water have a naturally strong odor or taste. But, just because your water tastes “off” does not necessarily mean it is unsafe. Still, you want the best for your family, and that includes water that is not only safe but refreshingly delicious.

WHAT DOES METAL TASTE LIKE, ANYWAY?

Tap water can taste like a lot of different things depending on what contaminants are found in it.

Chlorine and sulfate can give your water a salty taste, but iron, copper, manganese, and zinc typically cause your water to taste metallic. After all, they are metals. However, there are actually more than 300 different detectable contaminants in water supplies around the country.

WHAT CAUSES METALLIC TASTING WATER?

There are a couple of reasons your water may taste metallic:

1. TRACES OF METAL

Your water may have traces of metal that can come from old, rusting pipes that slough off iron particles. Older homes and municipal water systems commonly used iron pipes. If you have a well, corrosion and resulting seepage can increase iron in your water. Pipes made of galvanized steel, copper, or brass can also start to corrode after 80 to 100 years.

If your home dates back to the early 1900s or earlier, the greater concern is the possible presence of lead. We know now that lead is highly toxic, but it was used many years ago to solder pipe connections. (It has been illegal to use lead in plumbing since 1986.) Unless you are certain your home’s plumbing has been upgraded, it is imperative to test your water for lead and to get your pipes checked out.

2. LOW PH

A low pH level in your water can also make it taste metallic or otherwise off. Measuring potential hydrogen (pH) tells you how acidic or alkaline your water is. A normal range is 6.5 to 8.5. If your water’s pH is on the low side, it may taste somewhat “acidic” or sour.

FINDING AND FIXING THE PROBLEM

You can take steps to improve the taste of your water. And you certainly want to be sure it doesn’t contain any potentially harmful elements. Testing your water will tell you what’s in it. You can get a relatively simple test kit at the store, order a sampling kit from a certified water testing laboratory — which you'll send back for analysis, or have your water professionally tested.

Not only is your goal to identify what the problem is, but also to find the source of your problem. Does the water taste metallic everywhere in your house, or just from a particular tap? This can help you pinpoint the location of rusting pipes, for example.

Testing can help you track down the problem and give you peace of mind. If there’s a dangerous problem such as the presence of lead, you can take corrective action. And if your water is safe but simply unpleasant tasting, you can correct that by using a water filtration system for drinking and cooking water.

[hafermanwater]

Hard Water Problems: How To Clean Yellow Stains From Your Clothes

Ugh. Those yellow stains on your clothes and linens. It’s embarrassing and frustrating, especially if you aren’t sure what’s causing them. Chances are, it's your hard water. In addition to those stains, hard water can leave streaks of whitish residue on darker colors and make your sheets, towels, and clothes feel stiff and look dingy, too.

People have been tackling hard water problems for decades, and you may be surprised to hear some of the ways they've tried to rid their clothes of these pesky stains. While there doesn't appear to be a magical solution, here are a few suggestions we like.

FOR COLORED CLOTHES

Try soaking your laundry in a mixture of 1 cup of distilled vinegar per 1-gallon of water. Leave it to sit for at least 30 minutes, then rinse, spin, and run the load through a normal wash-and-rinse cycle. This is especially recommended to help remove white residue from colored items.

FOR ANY LAUNDRY

Fill your washer with the hottest water that won’t harm the material, plus 1 cup of fabric softener (not borax) and 4 times as much laundry detergent as you normally use. Add clothes and agitate only until everything is wet. Let the load soak at least 12 hours, or overnight. Then drain and spin. Do not agitate the clothes.

Now run the load through an entire cycle, using only 1 cup of the fabric softener (no detergent). If you notice soap suds in the rinse water, repeat this process until you no longer see them.

PREVENTATIVE MEASURES

While these solutions may work, they can be tedious. Wouldn’t it be better to avoid stains in the first place? You could simply invest in a wardrobe that features only shades of yellow and gray so the stains and streaks blend in. But perhaps yellow and gray aren’t your best colors. Here are some other ideas to prevent hard water stains and streaks:

Use liquid detergent rather than powder.

Add a half-cup of laundry borax to each load, to improve your detergent’s cleaning ability.

Do not use chlorine bleach because it will set stains permanently.

THERE IS A BETTER WAY

These tips can help remove or avoid hard water stains and streaks, at least to some degree. But they are time-consuming and costly. There is one solution that ensures you will prevent hard water problems altogether — installing a water softener.

Not only will you reduce the chance of hard water stains and streaks, but you’ll get vastly improved water for washing dishes and yourself, too. Say goodbye to spots all over your glassware, silverware, pots, and pans. Too stiff, brittle hair that tangles easily. To dry, itchy skin. And to impossible-to-get-off limescale on kitchen and bathroom fixtures. And say hello to soft water.

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Water Softener Rental VS Purchase: Which Makes Sense For Me?

If your water softener goes out, or you're looking to upgrade, you have two options — rent or buy. Many people don’t realize water softener rental is even possible, but in some circumstances, it can be the most cost-effective decision. So, how do you know whether to rent or buy? Let’s take a closer look at the pros and cons of each possibility.

RENTING IS AN EXCELLENT SHORT-TERM SOLUTION

If you’re planning to move after a year or two, or you’re a little short on cash after buying your home, purchasing a new water softener might feel like too much of an investment. But having hard water is no good, either. Hard water has negative effects on your skin, hair, and laundry. It leaves scale and soap scum on bathroom fixtures that are unsightly and darn hard to get off. And it can damage washing machines and dishwashers – something to think about if you own your own appliances.

Water softener rental to the rescue! Typically, renting a water softener requires no long-term contract. After the initial 12-month term, you can end the rental agreement at any time.

Rental is also ideal for people who want to try before they buy because you get an option to own. And if you’re skittish about unexpected service or repair charges, no problem, because you don’t own the equipment.

BUYING IS A LONG-TERM INVESTMENT

Water softening systems are not inexpensive. For this reason, families often choose to finance the cost of purchase and installation. You’ll have a recurring expense to replenish the salt (which you might have with a rental, too). And if something goes wrong, that expense will be yours (although parts might be covered under warranty). However, with some simple maintenance, your system will last many years. Bear in mind that quality manufacturers such as Kinetico offer superior warranties because they know their products are sound.

A water softening system is an asset that upgrades the functional and financial value of your home. Your water-using appliances will work better and last longer, saving you money and headaches. Having a water softener even increases your home’s resale value.

OTHER QUESTIONS TO CONSIDER

It’s important to understand that rental agreements vary from company to company, so if you’re leaning towards renting, there are some extra questions to ask.

Does the rental agreement cover installation or is there an additional one-time charge?

Does the rental cost include ongoing maintenance supplies, such as salt, or do you pay extra for those?

Are you renting a new or used unit? Some companies only rent used equipment, which may not offer all the technology or other features of a new system. We give you the option to rent new or used.

Does the rental agreement cover installation or is there an additional one-time charge?

Does the rental cost include ongoing maintenance supplies, such as salt, or do you pay extra for those?

Are you renting a new or used unit? Some companies only rent used equipment, which may not offer all the technology or other features of a new system. We give you the option to rent new or used.

THE FINAL DECISION

When deciding whether to rent or buy, it all comes down to what makes the most sense for you and your family, which is a good reason to have a water treatment professional help guide you through the process to make the best decision for your situation. In the long run, an owned water softener will pay for itself. But if buying isn’t right for you right now, water softener rental may be the way to go.

[hafermanwater]

6 Things to Know Before Purchasing a Reverse Osmosis System

We all know we’re supposed to drink plenty of water to stay hydrated and healthy. But wouldn’t it be nice if your water tasted so good you actually wantedto drink more? And if it was so clean you could feel confident about your family drinking more? A reverse osmosis system is a great way to improve the quality and taste of your home drinking water.

Even if your home has a water softener, you could still benefit from reverse osmosis. Water softeners capture calcium and magnesium, but hard water often has many other contaminants and impurities. A reverse osmosis system is designed to filter out a wide range of chemical contaminants and particulates, depending on the model you choose.

CHOOSING THE RIGHT SYSTEM

With a variety of reverse osmosis (RO) products on the market, how do you know which system will be most beneficial for your family? There are several factors to consider:

Size -  Some RO systems sit on the counter while others are designed to fit under the kitchen sink. You can even install your RO in a utility room to avoid  taking up any of that “premium” space. That said, if you’re a renter, a temporary/portable system likely makes the most sense. For under-counter installation, be sure to measure your space so the model you choose fits and can be installed and serviced in the future without any issues.

Number of Stages - Most RO systems process water through 4, 5, or 6 separate stages – each one filtering specific types of impurities. You may not need something as comprehensive as a 6-stage system, but that depends on what’s in your water that you want removed. If you’re a parent with young children, you may want maximum purification, no matter what. Consider testing your water to know exactly what you're dealing with.

Capacity - The larger the tank, the more water it can process However, tanks also take up space. A typical choice for most home systems is a 3 gallon storage tank, which actually holds anywhere between 1.5 and 3 gallons of water, depending on water pressure. If that isn’t big enough, a larger tank – or a second connected tank – can be used.

Maintenance - Easy as they are to use, reverse osmosis systems do require periodic maintenance. Each filter must be replaced periodically, and the reverse osmosis membrane itself also requires regular replacement in most cases. Before deciding on a system, ask how often you’ll need to do that and how much work is involved.

Cost - You can spend as little as $150 or as much as $2000 or more on a reverse osmosis system, though most cost under $500. Price depends on quality and features, primarily the number of filtration stages. Most people hire a professional to install under-counter systems, which will add to the cost.

Warranty - A high-quality product will last longer with fewer problems. Look for a brand that has a sound reputation and offers a limited lifetime warranty. Kinetico, for example, makes several types of RO systems and offers one of the best warranties in the industry.

So which reverse osmosis system is right for you? That depends on the current condition of your water, your family’s needs and preferences, and your budget.

[hafermanwater]

Hard Facts: 6 Benefits of Kinetico Water Softeners

Water softening systems are a homeowner's best friend. After all, with soft water, you don't have to clean yellow stains from your clothes or scrub limescale buildup off the shower walls. We could go on and on about the benefits of soft water, but we realize that choosing a water softening system can seem difficult. There are so many different brands out there. How do you know which one is best for your home? Water softeners, like Kinetico's, offer distinct advantages that can help you save money in the long run and spend less time on maintenance.

In several key respects, Kinetico water softeners are unlike any other water softening system. Here's how:

SIMPLICITY

Kinetico systems are non-electric, so there are fewer ways for your system to malfunction. We think that's worth noting because electrical issues are a common problem with other systems. Kinetico is the only non-electric water softeners currently on the market. There’s nothing to program or reset. And no electricity usage means a lower power bill each month. So, what powers a Kinetico water softener? The energy from moving water - kinetic energy.

WORKING SMARTER, NOT HARDER

Other products will either under-use or over-use their soft water capacity resulting either in wasted salt and water or hard water. Not only is this less efficient, but it also wears components faster. Kinetico's twin softening tank systems work smarter, not harder – performing regeneration at the optimal time. They meter your water usage and regenerate only when necessary. That might be multiple times in one day when all the cousins are visiting, or it could be not at all while you’re gone on vacation. No waste.

CONSISTENT FLOW OF SOFT WATER

Single tank softeners use hard water to clean themselves during regeneration and go into bypass, so soft water isn't available during the process. By alternating regeneration between tanks, Kinetico’s twin-tank design guarantees continuous soft water even during the regeneration process and it uses soft water to ensure maximum quality cleaning. This is one of the reasons why a Kinetico system lasts so much longer.

HASSLE-FREE

Everyone knows that most water softeners use salt, and replenishing that salt is a regular household maintenance chore. So, you might be shocked (and pleased) to learn that Kinetico water softeners use an average of 50 to 70% less salt than other systems. Think about that. For every 10 bags of salt you would have lugged from the store to home and from the basement to the water softener if you had an average system, you could need as few as three.

GREATER EFFICIENCY

Some homeowners require more than just a water softener — like an iron filter — to get quality H20. But with water softeners like Kinetico's, you may not need any other water treatment equipment for soft, iron-free water.

LONGER LIFESPAN

You can expect a Kinetico water softener to last for 20-30 years as compared to most systems, which last anywhere from 2-12 years depending on their level of quality.

As you can see, some brands simply stand out when it comes to the world of water softeners. And Kinetico is one of them. Click here for more information about Kinetico products.

[hafermanwater]

The Science Of H2O: What Is Hard Water?

You've no doubt heard of hard water and what it can do to your plumbing, skin, and clothing. But if you’re like most people, you probably don’t know the science behind it. What is hard water, anyway? Why is it problematic?

Here are the hard facts about hard water.

WHAT IS HARD WATER?

Despite the descriptive name, hardness in water has nothing to do with its texture. Instead, the word refers to the presence of minerals in the water, particularly calcium and magnesium. Soft water is low in minerals, hard water is high. Excessive mineral content is the culprit behind all those negative things hard water can do around the house.

To answer the question, “What is hard water?”, we have to look at where water comes from. Rainwater is naturally soft because it is virtually mineral-free. However, as it flows through soil or rocks — through a river, well, or as groundwater, for example — it picks up minerals along the way. The water actually dissolves the minerals. In fact, the US Geological Survey defines water hardness as “the amount of dissolved calcium and magnesium.”

THINK OF IT AS A SLIDING SCALE

Water is not simply soft or hard. It falls somewhere in between on a spectrum defined by its mineral level. That can be measured in grains per gallon (GPG), or in milligrams of calcium carbonate per liter of water. Most Americans have hard water, at least to some degree. Here in Minnesota, our water ranges from very hard to extremely hard, so the effects are more noticeable. Those effects can be annoying.

SO, WHAT’S THE PROBLEM?

Hard water interferes with our attempts to clean our clothes, plumbing fixtures, hair, and skin because it negates the cleaning properties of soap. The key ingredient in most soaps is sodium stearate. Under normal conditions, soap lathers up nicely and the sodium stearate bonds to oils and dirt. We rinse it all away.

However, in hard water, the sodium stearate bonds react with the minerals instead. That causes multiple problems. The reaction produces magnesium stearate and other insoluble compounds, robbing the soap of its cleaning properties. So you have to use more body wash, laundry detergent, etc. You also get soap scum and limescale, both of which are unsightly and very difficult to remove. Limescale is the mineral “crust” left behind when HARD water evaporates after being heated or sitting too long.

HARD WATER CAN BE SOFTENED

While Mother Nature is responsible for the hardness of your water, you can take steps to correct the situation. Boiling accomplishes the same thing as evaporation — separating the water from the minerals, which are left behind. However, boiling is not a practical softening method for household water. And it won’t work if your water contains gypsum or calcium sulfate. In that case, your water is considered “permanently hard.”

That’s where chemical softening processes come into play. Most household water softeners are salt-based. Installing a water softener can do wonders to improve your water and relieve your frustration, too.

So, the next time you notice water spots on your glassware, soap scum on the bathroom wall, and a dullness in your washed clothes, you'll know it's from the hardness of your water.

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3 Things Your Hairdresser Wants You To Know About Hard Water Hair

Did you know the beginning of personal hygiene dates back to prehistoric times? In fact, the earliest humans understood that water, from the lakes and rivers they lived near, had the ability to clean things, or at least rinse mud off their hands. Realizing they needed more than just water to truly clean themselves, people began making soap as early as 2800 B.C. With the creation of soap came the problems we still face today, soap scum. It’s a problem that dates back nearly 5,000 years.

Although you use soap to clean your hands and body today, you likely don’t use it to clean your hair. But even the best quality shampoo can leave your hair feeling brittle and damaged if you use hard water. So, how do you clean your hair without damaging it or leaving buildup?

Here are three things your hairdresser wants you to know about hard water hair.

1. IT’S THE WATER, NOT YOUR HAIR

Water is considered "hard" when it contains certain levels of minerals, especially calcium and magnesium. Hardness levels can vary from none to extreme, depending on where you go. That’s because natural rainwater is mineral-free (soft) but can pick up dissolved minerals as it travels through soil or rock. Water treatment plants generally do not remove the offending minerals.

2. SYMPTOMS OF HARD WATER HAIR

We call water with high mineral content “hard” because it’s hard to work with. (No kidding. Just ask your hair.) If you look through a microscope, you can see that your hair has tiny scales. Normal hair feels smooth because the scales lie flat, but hard water makes the scales stand up. Your hair not only feels rough, the scales cling to each other, causing tangles. That can make it more difficult to blow dry and style your hair.

Hard water also makes it difficult to rinse away soap, so you’re left with residue (think soap scum) that can make your hair limp, dull, dry, and “filmy” feeling. Your scalp may feel dry or itchy, too. If you color your hair, hard water can strip away the color faster so it looks faded or even a different color. Some professionals say hard water can even increase the risk of hair breakage or thinning.

It is important to note that the chlorine levels in your water could also be affecting the health of your hair. Chlorine messes with the natural oils in your hair which reduces it’s shine and can even make it brittle.

3. YOU CAN FIGHT BACK!

To counteract the effects of hard water on your hair, be sure to use commercial shampoo instead of regular soap. These products are made from synthetic detergents that react less with hard water. They also contain additives that make them lather better and rinse away completely. Unfortunately, commercial shampoo also strips the natural oils from your hair. To combat that, use conditioner, which doesn’t replace the natural oils but does improve hair texture.

What hair care routine would your hairdresser recommend?

Avoid natural shampoos, instead choose a shampoo made from synthetic ingredients.

Use conditioner, but not too much.

Don’t wash your hair so often.

Use a clarifying shampoo, but only about once a week. They can be harsh on hair if used too frequently.

If you live here in Minnesota, you don’t even have to leave home to see and feel the effects of hard water on your hair. That’s because our entire state has "very to extremely" hard water. It isn’t a health problem, but it sure is inconvenient. Installing a water softener in your home is a sure way to significantly improve water quality, not only for washing your hair but for your laundry and kitchen washing, too.

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Information About Your Water

HOW SAFE IS YOUR WATER?

Municipal water treatment facilities do a good job of providing general purpose water that, according to the government, is safe. Safe means it meets the standards set forth by the U.S.E.P.A. However, it has been reported that 20% of systems in the U.S. are in violation of the Safe Drinking Water Act.

City water is chlorinated to disinfect the water. But chlorine combines with organic matter to create disinfection byproducts (DPB’s). The EPA regulates the 11 most common DPB’s. Nine of the 11 cause cancer in laboratory animals. “This is an absolutely clear-cut case of humans being exposed to chemicals that are known to be toxic in high doses,” says David Savitz of the Mount Sinai School of Medicine in New York. “We all drink this water.”

Some cities use chloramine to disinfect the water, that is a essentially a combination of chlorine and ammonia.

Many cities add fluoride in the form of sodium fluoride, fluorosilicic acid, or sodium fluorosilicate. Some studies show it helps prevent tooth decay. Other studies expose a link to neurological disorders and brain damage. It began in 1962 when some people decided that municipal water should contain .7 to 1.2 mg/L of a fluoride compound in the drinking water. In 2011 the level was lowered to .7 mg/L. Currently, some people think the level in drinking water should not exceed .5 mg/L We all get fluoride to some degree, in soda pop, processed foods, toothpaste, etc. And the amount we intake is therefore determined by how much we eat and drink. The organic form of fluoride, fluorine, is found in foods such as oatmeal, grapes, dried fruit, beans, walnuts, spinach, tomatoes, orange juice, et al. You can google it and decide for yourself if you want the fluoride compounds removed from your drinking water.

Even if the city did provide you with pure water, the water would pick up impurities from the distribution piping in the ground. For example, some of those pipes are very old, and have cracks in them, and are buried in close proximity to sewage pipes. “We estimate that 19.5 million illnesses occur each year in the United States that are caused by microorganisms in drinking water,” according to University of Arizona microbiologist Kelly Reynolds.

A very small portion of the water the city treats is used for drinking water. But this is the most important because it is what goes in you. You always want to be sure you are drinking the best quality water. Many people who want to drink high quality water choose to install a “point of use” system with a faucet at the kitchen sink to provide purified, or high quality drinking water for cooking, drinking, making juice, coffee, tea, ice cubes, etc. Pets and plants love clean, purified water.

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So far we are very happy. Nice to have clear water and not rusty or yellow looking water. Clothes are white now and not yellow. Neighbors have had Haferman water softener for years and they are VERY happy – wish we had gotten one sooner – we went through 4 other brands in 20 years.

Jerry S. of Hastings

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We will be calling for the drinking water system when we remodel our kitchen. Very pleased. Will recommend to others.

Rod W. of Elko

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Your installer did an excellent Job!! He went above and beyond the call of duty! I can’t say enough. I should have done this years ago.

David S. of Savage

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What Happens After The Water Test

As you may already know; water testing is essential to the health and comfort of your home. But many are unsure exactly what happens after the water test. At Haferman Water Conditioning we provide water testing for Excelsior and the surrounding areas and are here to walk you through the whole process; from beginning to end. And, once you decide that water testing is right for you, give us a call at Haferman and one of our water testing experts will be out to your home right away.

If you are concerned about contaminants that may be present in your water, as many people are, you can have some peace of mind by having your water tested. Leaving your water unchecked could lead to problems like gastrointestinal issues, hard or foul tasting water and a variety of other problems. Did you know that hard water is present in 85% of homes in the US? Water testing can detect hard water as well.

First, when you decide that water testing is something you would like for your home, give us a call at Haferman Water Conditioning. We will speak with you to determine what you’re looking for and set up an appointment for a water test.

Water testing will test hardness, iron, pH, and Total Dissolved Solids (TDS). It takes just a few minutes with an EPA approved testing kit. The water treatment representative will bring along a small water softener that will make soft water for a visual comparison of the benefits of soft water. And will then make recommendations based upon the results of the different tests. Other tests are available as well, so it is up to you if you wish to pursue them.

Once the water testing is complete, you will have the option of having a water treatment system installed in your home or a water softener. Your water treatment professional will have several models of treatment in stock, and can generally have a system installed within a few days.

It is completely up to you whether a water treatment system is installed. It is important to remember that our health, especially as it relates to what we put into our bodies, calls for special attention to the water that we drink. Municipal or well-based drinking water should be tested so that you get only the very best for you and your family.

Are you interested in learning more about water testing in Excelsior or any of the surrounding areas? Call Haferman Water Conditioning at 952-894-4040, or you can contact us to set up a Free Water Analysis and Estimate.

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Haferman Water Conditioning Recognized For Business Excellence

We are pleased to announce that the Water Quality Association recently awarded Haferman Water Conditioning with the distinction of Business Excellence. WQA’s Business Excellence program calls attention to top companies within the water treatment industry who are committed to the values and high standards of the association.

In order to earn the designation of Business Excellence, a company or its corporate parent must meet the following qualifications:

WQA member company in good standing

Sell one or more certified products

Have at least one certified professional on staff

The program singles out WQA members who make special commitment to business excellence, the values of WQA and to advancing the betterment of water quality. WQA’s Business Excellence features a distinct gold-trimmed logo that can be used to visually represent the company’s commitment to the new program. We are proud to display this logo on our website.

With water quality becoming an increasingly important issue, Haferman is proud to stand apart as a company doing their best to provide high quality water to all residents in the Twin Cities area. We have built our company on strong pillars of quality, family and faith. We have been in the water business for more than 50 years, choosing in the 1970s to partner with Kinetico, a leader in high quality water filtration and softening. Kinetico’s products focus on non electric, energy efficient units with superior output.

We strive to pair our Kinetico product offerings with excellent service. We take extra steps to ensure we have trained and certified staff as well as certified products. Our goal is to bring long-term solutions for water quality issues into Twin Cities homes and businesses.

WQA is a not-for-profit trade association representing the residential, commercial and industrial water treatment industry. Since 1959, the WQA Gold Seal certification program has been certifying products that contribute to the safe consumption of water. The WQA Gold Seal program is accredited by the American National Standards Institute and the Standards Council of Canada.

If you would like to learn more about water quality in the Twin Cities and the services we offer, please give us a call at 952-894-4040, or you can contact us.