Do I need a water softener?
Water softeners do not make tap water safer–they simply remove the dissolved minerals that make water hard but not harmful. The hardness of water is different throughout Southern California and depends on the water source. Before purchasing a water softener, make sure it has a salt efficiency rating of no less than 4,000 grains of hardness removed per pound of salt used in regeneration. Softer water has both good and bad features. Benefits include a softer feel to hair and skin, the need to use less dish soap and laundry detergent (because soap lathers more quickly in soft water), and less mineral deposits in pipes and on pots and pans, glasses and cars. However, water softeners add sodium to the water, which may be a concern for people on sodium-restricted diets.

Show All Answers

1. What is done to purify the water before it comes out of the tap?
2. Who is making sure that my water is safe and healthy to drink?
3. Who should I call if I have a problem with my tap water?
4. How do I treat water during an emergency?
5. How do I handle water emergencies?
6. How do I flush my household pipes?
7. Is there lead in my water?
8. Is there fluoride in my water?
9. Can pregnant women drink tap water?
10. Can people with HIV/AIDs or weakened immune systems drink tap water?
11. Do I need to purchase a home treatment device to make my tap water safe?
12. Should I boil my water?
13. Do I need a water softener?
14. Should I buy bottled water or water at vending machines or water stores?
15. Why does my water sometimes look dirty, cloudy or have a strange color?
16. Why does my water leave spots on my glasses, coffeepot and showerhead?
17. How can I find out what's in my water?