@kevin bingham
No it doesn't actually add salt, it removes magnesium and calcium, then later uses salt to flush itself. I think you would be in for a very nice surprise if you installed one, your water appliances will last significantly longer and your skin and hair will likely greatly benefit as well. Your municipal water is actually designed to be hard water, because it coats the inside of the old pipes that are used through the distribution system, preventing lead contamination and protecting the pipes. That was actually the problem in flint, they changed the water supply without thinking about that. However unless you have ancient lead plumbing in your house, it is detrimental to everything from toilets to faucets to dishwashers, hot water heaters, icemakers, washing machines, and you. If you have antiquated plumbing, maybe it's time for an upgrade, i would suggest either copper or pex.
A water softener removes minerals that create water hardness, one of the most common water quality problems in US homes. Hard water destroys appliances, leaves filmy soap scum across bathrooms and kitchens, and dries out hair and skin. With over 85% of the United States relying on hard water for...
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