Softened water can leave salt stains on tile when it dries.
Hard water contains excess minerals like calcium and potassium which leaches from the soil into underground aquifers. Water softening systems use sodium ionization technology to rid hard water of the foul-tasting minerals and to help create water that is actually easily to rinse off. A couple dangers exist when using water softening systems that are a concern to those on restricted diets and those living in rural homes.
Sodium Intake
According to the North Dakota State University Department of Agriculture, water softeners release sodium in the mineral exchange process, which comes out along with water from any faucet the softener is used on. People on low sodium diets could be adversely affected by the increase in sodium intake from softened water. The Mayo Clinic states that the more calcium and potassium present in hard water, the more sodium is added by the softening system. Consult a family doctor to determine if the increase in sodium is having any affect on your health.
Damaged Plumbing
Salt is a corrosive agent, which can be particularly problematic for homes in rural areas with dedicated septic tanks. The sodium-laden water is allowed to sit in the septic tank for months, which can increase the corrosion rate of the tank itself. If the amount of sodium present in the water is high due to very hard water, a home's septic tank could conceivably rupture, sending waste material spewing into ground water and contaminating soil.
Avoid Salt
If the taste and odor of your hard water is bearable, maintaining a faucet which is not hooked up to the softening system may help decrease sodium intake for people in the home as well as any drain water present in a septic tank. The faucet shouldn't be a in a shower or bathroom sink, as hard water is not an ideal bathing water, and you shouldn't keep a drinking water source close to the toilet.
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