Water softeners have a shelf life just the same as all other products. Water softeners help the consumer to maintain quality of water used for bathing, cooking, and potable uses like drinking. If your water softener stops performing these functions as effectively as it used to, it may be time for you to consider replacing it with a new one. Below are a few signs to look out for that indicate your water softener is overdue for a replacement.
Buildup Around Faucets
One of the main signs that will tell you that your water softener is due for a replacement is that there will be an accumulation of minerals around your pipes and faucets. This is recognizable visually as well as through the taste of the water. Once you begin to see a buildup of minerals form on your faucets in the kitchen and restroom as well, you will know it is time for a change of your water softener.
Water Taste
Those who use tap water for drinking purposes may notice that it is time to chance their water softener because the water will change in taste. The water may develop a light metallic taste when it is drunk. Additionally, the water will have a different “texture” so to speak in the mouth. If there is a gritty texture to the water or a change in taste, it is likely time to replace your water softener.
Lack of Lather
When a water softener needs to be replaced, you will often find that creating a lather with soap is difficult if not impossible. Soaps used in dishwashing will fail to lather properly, as will those used for personal hygiene. This is just one sign that the water softener needs to be replaced promptly.
Problems with the Washing Machine
A washing machine is one device utilizing water that is especially sensitive to water texture changes. While the dishwasher or shower faucet may undergo a change in water softness without notice, a washing machine is no such similar device. Once the water softness in your plumbing begins to decrease, the washing machine is one of the first devices to demonstrate this.
Your washing machine may undergo a number of issues, including changes in cycles. The machine may fail to fully load the necessary amount of water needed to wash an entire load of laundry. It may also fail to properly clean the entire load of laundry due to the laundry detergent not lathering properly. Most washing machines determine how much water should be used in each cycle depending on signals from delicate sensors. When the water quality becomes harder, these sensors can become confused, and issues with laundering clothing can ensue.
Conclusion
All in all, there are various different signals that can be observed in the home that will let you know when the water softener in your household needs to be replaced. You may notice buildup of mineral deposits accumulating around faucets, as well as a taste in the potable water in the household. You may observe that when you wash the dishes or when you are bathing with soap, the soap and water fail to lather. When it comes to doing laundry, you will likely notice that there are issues completing a full wash cycle. Heed these signs and your water quality will thank you.