Scale forms on heating elements, plumbing fixtures, and pipes all the time. Anti-scaling water systems work by turning magnesium and calcium minerals into tiny, harmless crystals. When water flows through the conditioner tank, it hits the agent that changes those minerals into crystal particles that don’t stick around. This process cuts scale buildup by 99 percent, which means less clogging and damage. Plus, it helps stop corrosion by making a protective coating on pipes and fixtures, all without any need for upkeep. People looking to protect their plumbing and save on repairs will really benefit from this. Curious about how this magic works? Check out www.watersystemsguide.com to dive deeper and keep your pipes happy.
Compared to classic softeners that work on the basis of ion exchange, calcium and magnesium ions are exchanged with an equal amount of sodium ions, which adds sodium content. This raises environmental and health concerns and requires backwashing. With this system, you do not have the expense of buying salt and the particles generated are harmless to the environment.
Traditional softeners can be replaced with an anti-scaling system. There will be no slippery feeling as is felt with softeners and there may be a slight salty taste and odor until the existing softener is completely removed. Pipes will be cleaned and calcium and scale build-up will not occur.
If the system becomes contaminated it can be treated with 2 to 3 ppm of chlorine for short periods to kill bacteria. The system will tolerate 140 degrees Fahrenheit or 60 degrees Celsius. It can withstand temperatures of 39 degrees F and should be kept from freezing. It works best in the range of 6 to 9 pH.
Minimally the life of the system is 3 to 5 years if recommended chemistry and sizing requirements are followed. Well, water, if left untreated, can be a concern as it has a high level of interference ions. Municipal sources often meet requirements but high levels of chlorine, over 2 ppm, can interfere with the life of the system.
It is recommended a whole-house carbon filter be installed prior to the anti-scaling system if chlorine is present. Depending on the type and amount of scale build-up it can take from one to six weeks for de-scaling to take full effect. Due to high temperatures in a dishwasher, spotting can be seen on dishes due to descaling taking place. It is recommended that a cup of white vinegar be run through the wash cycle to remove the scaling. Also, reduction of soap usage by as much as half and using eco-friendly detergents is advised.
The conversion of magnesium and calcium in existing pipes can be accomplished in as fast as two seconds. The reaction is immediate and particles are formed on the surface. It meets NSF 61 standards which is an independent test that affects health and is performed by Water Quality Assurance labs. Having too much chlorine will have a serious effect on the system so a carbon filter should be installed as part of the treatment system installation.
A major advantage of anti-scaling water systems is that they require less servicing and maintenance. They require no salt or service calls to check for efficient operation. They require no electricity or valves, keeping costs at a minimum. As they require no salts or chemicals they discharge no brine. They do not require electricity and therefore keep energy costs low. There is no back washing required and therefore no wasted water. They use up to 50 to 70 percent less space than conventional softener systems and allow healthy minerals, magnesium, and calcium to remain.