| With the array of choices we have for softening | | | | electrostatic process, an electrical charge forces the |
| hard water, it can be difficult to decide which method | | | | ions to repel one another. The ions are not able to |
| will work best. Therefore, cost is one factor to | | | | bond and form scale. The main functions of magnetic |
| consider as well as how the unit is set up, its size and | | | | water softeners are applicable in heating and cooling. |
| its softening capacity. | | | | Magnetic water softeners are the subject of much |
| Testing water hardness is as simple as getting a | | | | debate, and magnetic water softening systems |
| water test kit from a pool supplier or an | | | | cannot usually be purchased via retailers. The |
| establishment that sells water softener systems. | | | | effectiveness claims made by manufacturers are |
| Water hardness is measured in grains per gallon | | | | often backed up by anecdotal evidence, though |
| (GPG), parts per million (PPM), or milligrams per liter | | | | scientific studies have been done. The outcomes are |
| (MG/L). Water that measures 3.5 to 7 GPG is | | | | inconclusive. While it is acknowledged that magnetism |
| considered hard water. | | | | does, indeed, alter the hard minerals, the exact |
| Magnetic water softeners rely on the use of ordinary | | | | effects on the water are unclear. The consensus is |
| magnets. The magnets are mounted opposite one | | | | that scale formation can be reduced by magnetic |
| another, either outside or inside a water pipe. The | | | | treatment; however, the reduction of scale appears |
| water flows between these magnets, through the | | | | to be minimal, roughly 10 percent. An advantage to |
| magnetic field, which affects the ions. A chemical | | | | using a magnetic water softener is that it is a |
| reaction takes place, altering the molecular structure | | | | non-chemical treatment. |
| of hard water minerals. | | | | When it comes to magnetic water softeners, being |
| This reaction will take one of two forms: Magnetic or | | | | an educated consumer is the best policy. Explore |
| electrostatic. During a magnetic process, the collision | | | | different types and manufacturers. Compare prices. |
| process of magnesium or calcium ions is sped up. This | | | | Other things to consider are what type of |
| takes place in a cool environment, and as a result, | | | | environment the water softener will be set up in, the |
| lessens the buildup of scale. In contrast, during an | | | | size, installation, and construction of the unit. |