The elements that generally cause hard water are calcium and magnesium. They often show up in the form of a green and white build-up on faucets or spots on dishes from the dishwasher. While some people claim to dislike soft water and feel they can endure without a water softener, your water heater, hot water pipes and plumbing fixtures do not have the same type of endurance. Replacing these items can be very costly and the main objective of a water softening system is to preserve the life expectancy of your home’s plumbing system.

There are other benefits to having soft water. Soft water rinses cleaner from your hair, skin and clothes, minimizing unwanted residue. You’ll use less soap for washing dishes, laundry and bathing as most soaps are made for use in soft water and lather much more quickly.

Maintenance of a water softening system is relatively simple. If you maintain the salt level in the salt tank, you’ll be completing 99% of the necessary maintenance. Most people know that water softener salt is available at most hardware, grocery and convenience stores. Monthly check-ups should include adding salt and making sure the system was not unplugged or leaking from one of the tanks.

Water softening systems can be purchased or leased. Evaluate price, quality and service when choosing a water softening system as it is a major mechanical component in your home.

Learn about drain lines in this segment of Plumbing 101 from the Building Wisconsin TV series taped at Plumbers 75 Training Center. And if you need a plumber in the Madison WI area, check out the Directory at MadisonAreaPlumbers.com.

Subscribe to the Remodeler TV Blog for home remodeling and maintenance tips.