Frequently Asked Questions

The most common signs of poor water quality include strange tastes or odors, visible particles in the water, mineral stains (e.g., rust-colored or blue-green), and issues with soap lathering or cleaning. The best way to know for sure is to get your water tested by a professional. 

No. A water filter removes contaminants like chlorine, sediment, and bacteria. A water softener specifically removes hardness minerals (calcium and magnesium) but does not filter other contaminants. For comprehensive treatment, a dual-bedded system is recommended.

City water is already treated and disinfected by the municipality, so the focus is often on removing residual chlorine, improving taste, or addressing specific hardness issues. Well water is untreated and may contain a wider range of contaminants like bacteria, iron, and sulfur, which requires a more customized and multi-stage treatment system. 

Well water should be tested for bacteria annually. For other contaminants like nitrates, arsenic, or lead, it's recommended to test at least every 3-5 years, or whenever you notice a change in your water’s color, taste, or odor.

Hard water is water that has a high concentration of dissolved minerals, primarily calcium and magnesium. These minerals are not a health risk but cause problems like scale buildup on plumbing and appliances, dry skin and hair, and reduced soap lather. 

A point-of-use system (like an under-sink RO system or a pitcher filter) treats water at a single faucet for drinking or cooking. A point-of-entry system (like a water softener or whole-house filter) treats all the water as it enters the home. 

A water softener uses a process called ion exchange. As hard water flows through a tank containing resin beads, the beads attract and "exchange" the hardness minerals (calcium and magnesium) for sodium or potassium ions. 

Yes, softened water is generally safe to drink. The amount of sodium added to the water is very small, typically less than what's found in a slice of bread. If you are on a sodium-restricted diet, you can consult with a healthcare professional or opt for a potassium-based softening system. 

The frequency of adding salt depends on your water hardness, water usage, and the size of your system. Generally, you should keep the brine tank at least half full of salt, adding more when the salt level drops below the water line. 

A water softener protects your appliances from scale damage, makes your skin and hair feel softer, brightens your laundry, prevents mineral spots on dishes, and can help you save money on soaps, detergents, and energy bills. 

An RO system is an advanced water purification method that uses a semipermeable membrane to force water through tiny pores. This process removes up to 99% of dissolved solids, including salts, lead, fluoride, and other contaminants, producing high-purity drinking water. 

Yes, RO systems remove most minerals, including some that are beneficial. However, most people get the minerals they need from a balanced diet, not from water. If this is a concern, some RO systems can be equipped with a re-mineralization filter. 

Older RO systems were known for wasting water. However, modern, high-efficiency models are significantly better. The reject water is necessary to flush contaminants away from the membrane, but many newer systems have a lower waste-to-purified-water ratio. 

The pre- and post-carbon filters typically need to be changed every 6-12 months. The main RO membrane usually lasts for 2-5 years, but this can vary depending on your incoming water quality and usage. 

This is a very common issue caused by hydrogen sulfide gas. It is often created by sulfate-reducing bacteria. We can recommend a solution, such as an oxidation filter or a chlorine injection system, to remove the odor and the bacteria. 

This is typically caused by high levels of dissolved iron or manganese in your water. An iron filter, often paired with a water softener, is used to oxidize and remove these minerals. 

A UV water purifier is highly recommended for well water to ensure safety. It uses ultraviolet light to kill bacteria and viruses that may be present, protecting your family from waterborne diseases. 

Maintenance varies by system but generally includes:

• Adding salt to a water softener.
• Changing filters in a filtration system (every 6-12 months).
• Replacing the UV lamp in a UV purifier (annually).

While some systems can be a DIY project for a handy homeowner, professional installation is recommended. We ensure the system is properly sized for your home, installed correctly, and compliant with local plumbing codes to prevent issues and maintain warranty. 

The cost varies widely depending on the type of system, the severity of your water problems, and the size of your home. We can provide a personalized quote after a brief consultation.