Q
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How much does a water softener cost?
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A
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The cost will vary according to the type and size. Unlike other home improvements the savings provided by a water softener will produce a payback within 2-4 years.
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Q
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How can I justify the investment?
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A
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Most people who have a water softener would simply say that to wash and bathe in clear, scum-free water is sufficient justification. However, a water softener fulfils many functions and gives substantial savings. The long-term benefits are the reduction in water heating bills, and the protection of bathroom equipment and all water-using appliances. On a day-to-day basis, substantial saving can be made on soap products, cleaning materials and especially cleaning times
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Q
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What about servicing and maintenance?
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A
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A water softener is working 24 hours per day. Because there are few working components, its life is much longer than most other domestic appliances. The Quality Water Company can service and repair most types of water softener currently on the market. The frequency of servicing or maintenance will depend on the type, age and usage of the softener.
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Q
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Can a water softener be removed and relocated?
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A
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Definitely yes. It is as easy as removing a washing machine or a dishwasher and can be moved from home to home. In many cases, a water softener has also been known to help sell a property as a result of its protection of the hot water system and bathroom sanitary ware.
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Q
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Why not just soften the hot water?
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A
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This is not economically viable. Although the hot water system would remain scale free, all the benefits of fully softened water would be lost when any cold, hard water was added.
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Q
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Can a water softener be used with lead pipes?
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A
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Some of the lead pipework may have to be replaced first. Although lead pipework in hard water areas may not cause a problem it is advisable to replace it. However, soft water (natural rainwater or artificially softened water) in lead pipework systems may cause pickup of lead. If your lead pipework has not already been replaced, any pipes that carry softened water must be changed. Grants may be available for such renovation of pipework for households with low income. Further information can be obtained from your local authority.
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Q
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Will softened water affect my central heating system?
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A
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Softened water will prevent scaling. However, if the nature of your local water supply requires it, and if you have an indirect central heating system, a corrosion inhibitor should be used.
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Q
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Do plants like hard or softened water?
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A
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It is worth checking with your local garden centre. The level of sodium in softened water may be harmful to some plants. Most indoor plants usually prefer rainwater to tap water. It is an unnecessary waste of softened water to use it to supply a garden hose.
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Q
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Can softened water be used in an aquarium?
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A
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Softened water may be acceptable. If in doubt, check with your local aquatic supplier.
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Q
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Can softened water be used in car batteries and steam irons?
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A
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No. Only distilled or de-ionised waters should be used in car batteries, and they are also best for steam irons
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Q
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Is softened water suitable for home brewing?
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A
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It varies. Naturally soft or softened water is suitable for wine, brown ale, stout, and lager brewed from concentrate kits. Home brewers who “mash” may require special water treatment.
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Q
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Are water charges affected by installing a water softener?
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A
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No. Installation of a water softener will not affect your water charges or water charges accounts.
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