Ever wonder if buying a water softener at the Lake of the Ozarks is worth the money? We're hear to tell you that not only is it worth the money you'll spend on getting one, but it'll save you a lot of trouble and expense in the long run. There are so many benefits to owning a water softener that go above and beyond just having soft water. So we're answering some frequently asked questions to better educate you on the benefits that having soft water can provide to you and your household.

Can you drink soft water?

Although many people believe soft water should not be drunk because of the sodium content, most do not realize how little sodium is in the water. Over 95% of our minerals come from our food and less than 5% from drinking water. The amount of sodium a water softener adds to tap water depends on the “Hardness” of your water. The higher the concentration of calcium and magnesium, the more sodium needed to soften the water. Still, the amount of sodium in softened water that was originally very hard shouldn’t be cause for concern. (www.MayoClinic.com)

Why does soft water not rinse the soap off? Showering in soft water makes my skin feel “slick”.

Showering in soft water may give you the sensation that soap and shampoo haven’t been rinsed away.  The “slick” feeling is actually your skin and hair thoroughly clean. Bathing with soft water, skin and hair retain natural moisturizing agents, feeling softer and smoother. Your skin will be healthier all winter long and not be so dry and itchy. Hair needs less conditioner and will not get so much build up on it from styling products.

Are water softeners expensive to operate?

A water softener is the only household appliance that can save you money. The cost of the electricity it uses is less than $6.00 per year. Soft water will help your appliances such as your water heater and dishwasher run more efficiently and last longer. Soft water also uses 50-70% less detergent to laundry and dishes. A Lindyspring water softener can also save you hours of housework by eliminating mineral deposits and soap scum on your fixtures.

Should I buy an electronic or magnetic device to soften my water?

Do not be fooled! While a lot of these devices do exist, only water softeners soften water. In the industry these magnets are referred to as “Descalers”, not softeners. They may be effective in certain applications as descalers, but they do not remove the hardness of the water. All of the benefits of softened water are forfeited. These items are sold with testimonials and a money back 90 day guarantee, but there is no scientific evidence to support their claims. If it sounds too good to be true, then it most likely is!

Can the discharge from a water softener’s regeneration damage my septic system or drainfield?

In studies conducted by the University of Wisconsin in the late 1970s, it was confirmed that salt brine discharge from water softeners caused no problems in the operation of typical and newer style home treatment plants. High concentrations of calcium and manganese in the softener backwash water have no effect on the biological functions occurring in the septic tank and may, in some cases be helpful. The additional volume of wastewater generated is added slowly to the wastewater stream and does not cause any hydraulic overload problems. (Corey et al., 1977)

Do water softeners waste water and salt?

When you are shopping for a water softener at the Lake of the Ozarks, be sure to check the specifications for efficiency. If sized properly, a water softener will only regenerate 1 or 2 times per week. Always look for an electronic demand softener which meters water usage and adjusts accordingly. With the use of new technology such as upflow brining and metered electronic demand, today’s water softeners are much more efficient than those of yesteryear. It is not uncommon for a good quality softener to use less than 2 pounds of salt and less than 30 gallons of water per regeneration. Remember this piece of trivia – the total amount of water used to manufacture a new car, including tires is 39,090 gallons. Softeners do not waste water!