The short answer is: not quite.

This blog post explains the differences between so  called salt free softeners, and actual water conditioners like those from Halcyan, to help you understand each system’s functionality and effectiveness for chemical-free limescale protection.

What Is a Salt-Free Water Softener?

Salt-free water softeners function differently from traditional softeners which remove water hardness minerals. The true method of water softening involves extracting calcium and magnesium ions through ion exchange using salt.

Salt-free systems don’t do this.

These systems rely on Template Assisted Crystallisation (TAC), or another physical approach to modify hardness minerals so they remain free from surface adhesion. These systems work by transforming minerals into structures that prevent scale accumulation.

These systems should be identified as water conditioners because the marketing term salt-free softener commonly misleads consumers.

What Is a True Water Conditioner?

A real water conditioner functions by physically or magnetically changing mineral behaviour in hard water while maintaining their presence. These systems operate without salt or chemicals, while eliminating the need for ongoing maintenance and topping up.

Halcyan water conditioners are a standout example. Through their patented alloy core technology, they prevent calcium and magnesium ions from forming scale by converting them into harmless microscopic crystals. The application of these products not only shields your plumbing and appliances from scale buildup, but also works to eliminate preexisting scale gradually.

This section examines the fundamental distinctions between salt-free softeners and water conditioners.

We will compare these systems based on how they operate along with their maintenance requirements and their effectiveness and environmental impact.

1. How They Work

Salt-Free Softeners (TAC): The media bed transforms calcium and magnesium ions into harmless crystal formations.

Water Conditioners (Halcyan): Halcyan water conditioners employ a catalytic alloy that transforms hardness minerals at a structural level to prevent scale buildup.

2. Do They Remove Hardness?

Salt-Free Softeners: No. The minerals remain in the water.

Water Conditioners: Also no, but that’s the point. Halcyan functions by neutralising minerals’ ability to form scale rather than eliminating them from water.

It’s not about removal, it’s about preventing damage. Halcyan achieves effective results by preventing mineral damage while keeping beneficial minerals in the water.

3. Maintenance Requirements

Salt-Free Softeners: The TAC media in salt-free softeners needs periodic replacement every three to five years.

Halcyan Water Conditioner: Completely maintenance-free and lasts over 30 years. No media, no filters, no salt.

4. Environmental Impact

Salt-Based Softeners: During back flushing salt-based softeners waste water while adding brine to the water system.

Salt-Free Softeners: Less wasteful, but still require media replacement.

Halcyan: The Halcyan system produces no waste water while avoiding chemical use and energy consumption.

Are Salt-Free Softeners Effective?

Experts continue to argue over the actual performance of salt-free water softening systems. The performance of TAC systems which reduce scale depends largely on several critical factors.

• Flow rate
• system sizing
• Proper installation

The effectiveness of these systems depends on the existence of other impurities such as iron and manganese.

These systems frequently produce inconsistent results while struggling to remove existing scale from pipes.

Halcyan water conditioners consistently deliver proven performance results. The patented alloy core of the water treatment system activates immediately when water flows through it. Users in most homes observe that new limescale stops developing within days to weeks and existing limescale diminishes over the course of months.

Health and Taste

Halcyan water conditioners preserve the natural taste and health benefits because they keep calcium and magnesium minerals intact in your water. Many people choose this water over the “slippery” texture produced by standard salt softeners because it feels more natural and less chemically altered.

Long-Term Cost Considerations

Salt-Free Softeners:

• Lower running costs than salt-based systems
• But media replacement is required periodically
• Areas with heavy iron or manganese deposits may require pre-filters before water treatment.

Halcyan Water Conditioner:

• One-time investment
• Zero ongoing costs
• No consumables, servicing, or replacements

The savings accumulate significantly over the span of three decades.

The Bottom Line

The phrase “salt-free water softener” can seem attractive but it typically misrepresents water conditioners since conditioners have different levels of effectiveness.

Unlike other salt-free water softeners that depend on changeable media beds for unpredictable results, Halcyan has established itself as a reliable chemical-free water conditioning system that successfully addresses hard water issues in the UK.

This durable solution protects your property while saving money and reducing your environmental footprint without the need for salt or waste water and eliminates ongoing maintenance requirements.

Looking to go salt-free the right way?

Learn about Halcyan water conditioners to understand their natural protection for your home which delivers effective results at affordable prices.

Visit halcyanwater.com to learn more.

The post Saltless Water Softeners vs True Water Conditioners appeared first on Halcyan Water Conditioner.

Both systems are generally brought up in the same discussion but function through entirely dissimilar processes. Through this guide we’ll evaluate both water conditioning options based on ease of use, cost of ownership, sustainability and effectiveness, to help you choose the best water treatment system for your home and lifestyle.

What’s the Difference? 

Water softeners remove calcium and magnesium, the main minerals that cause water hardness, from water by using an ion exchange process. Sodium (salt) substitutes the minerals that inhibit limescale buildup inside pipes and household appliances.

The function of a home water conditioner differs because it retains the minerals within the water. This system modifies the physical composition of hard water minerals preventing them from bonding to surfaces and forming hard limescale deposits. The minerals persist in the water but exist in a state that cannot form limescale.

Ease of Use 

For most homeowners, simplicity is key. Installing and maintaining a home water conditioner proves to be the simplest process for most homeowners. After installation there are no maintenance needs because the system needs no salt top-ups and lacks filters that need cleaning or replacing. The water conditioner operates silently and provides uninterrupted protection for your home while requiring zero effort from you.

Home water softeners need consistent maintenance from users. The system requires regular salt replenishments along with monitoring of regeneration cycles and infrequent maintenance sessions. A power source and a drain connection are essential for flushing the system during regeneration.

Cost of Ownership 

The initial installation costs for a home water softener or conditioner generally show little difference depending on the specific model and configuration. However, the long-term costs differ significantly. 

Softeners have ongoing expenses. Operating a water softening system requires regular salt purchases while electricity and water usage may contribute to ongoing operating costs. These small but regular expenses accumulate to substantial amounts over time.

Water conditioners for homes that use passive salt-free technology usually do not require any operating expenses. After installation they need neither consumables nor electricity and also require no maintenance. Their ability to operate without ongoing expenses makes them a more cost-effective choice over time.

Environmental Impact 

More households today prioritise sustainability because it makes sense to do so. Home water conditioners stand out as the superior choice in this field.

Traditional water softeners need salt that has to undergo mining, processing, packaging, and transportation. The regeneration process of water softeners discharges salt-tainted wastewater into drains that potentially harm nearby water bodies and the surrounding soil.

Conditioners operate without any need for salt, chemicals or electrical power. During operation the unit avoids environmental discharge and prevents water wastage. Choosing a water conditioner represents the best option for minimising your environmental impact.

Effectiveness Against Limescale 

Both protection systems work effectively against limescale but they use different methods to achieve this result.

Water softening systems extract all hardness minerals resulting in completely soft water. The absence of limescale formation results in improved soap lathering and skin texture after showers while enhancing appliance longevity.

Conditioners function by stopping minerals from attaching themselves to surfaces instead of stripping them away. Your kettle, boiler and shower head stay free of limescale buildup which maintains the efficiency of your appliances. Your water might lack the soft, slippery sensation that softeners produce and soap lathering may take longer however the main goal for many users is to prevent scale buildup, which water conditioners handle very effectively.

Health and Drinking Water 

This is where we see the biggest difference between the two:

Experts recommend avoiding softened water for drinking because softeners introduce sodium into the water which can conflict with low-sodium diets and certain health conditions. Many homes with softeners choose to add a separate tap for drinking water leading to an increase in both installation and plumbing complexity.

Water conditioners maintain the existing chemical composition of water. Water conditioners maintain vital minerals such as calcium and magnesium while not introducing any new substances and remain completely safe for consumption. Using water conditioners throughout a house eliminates the necessity for extra taps or filtration systems because they function effectively as is.

Day-to-Day Experience 

The deciding factor for your choice may be based on how you want to experience your water.

When you use a softener, the texture of your water alters to become silkier and more slippery according to most user descriptions. Your bathing routine will become more efficient because soap and shampoo will create more lather and your skin along with your hair will achieve a softer texture. The improved feel of water through a softener system requires you to handle increased maintenance work and accept greater environmental impacts.

Although a conditioner doesn’t change the feel of your water significantly it provides advantages by reducing limescale buildup and increasing appliance efficiency without needing any maintenance work from you. For many households, that’s a worthwhile trade-off. 

Which Is Right for You? 

A home water softener is the best choice if you need extremely soft water and are okay with regular maintenance and salt refills.

When you need an effective solution that requires little upkeep and supports environmental sustainability to stop limescale from forming in your house, home water conditioners stand out as the best choice. Your appliances receive protection, while cleaning efforts decrease and your budget remains stable because this solution does not require salt addition to water or extra tasks.

Final Thoughts 

Water softeners and water conditioners resolve the same issue through distinct mechanisms. The optimal selection varies based on your living situation combined with your personal habits and what priorities you hold in highest regard, such as, ease of use, cost efficiency, health aspects or sustainability.

Halcyan operates under the principle that limescale prevention should not require sacrifices from your daily schedule nor harm your health or our planet. Our specialisation lies in water conditioning systems that provide long-term protection and operate without any maintenance or waste production.

The post Domestic: Water Conditioners vs Water Softeners appeared first on Halcyan Water Conditioner.

For many households, it comes down to choosing between a water softener or a water conditioner. Both systems address hard water, but they work very differently and come with unique benefits and trade-offs.

In this guide, we’ll explore how each system works, the pros and cons of both, and most importantly, why more people are choosing water conditioners as a sustainable, low-maintenance alternative to traditional softeners.

What Is Hard Water and Why Does It Matter?

Hard water is water that contains a high concentration of minerals, primarily calcium and magnesium. While these minerals aren’t harmful to your health, they can create significant problems in your home.

Firstly, hard water is one of the leading causes of limescale build up in your home appliances. Kettles, boilers, heating systems and pipework are heavily affected by limescale and lifespan can be shortened if not looked after. Reduced efficiency of appliances, dull, dry skin and hair after bathing and soap scum on dishes are some of the many effects hard water can have on your home. That’s why many homeowners in hard water areas turn to water treatment solutions, specifically water softeners or water conditioners.

What Is a Water Softener?

A water softener is a device that uses a process called ion exchange to physically remove the calcium and magnesium from your water. It swaps these hard minerals for sodium (salt), which doesn’t cause limescale.

The way in which water softeners work is, the hard water flows through a tank containing resin beads coated in sodium. The beads then attract and trap calcium and magnesium ions which are then replaced by sodium ions, producing softened water. The resin bed is periodically flushed with a saltwater solution (brine) to recharge it, a process known as regeneration.

What Is a Water Conditioner?

A water conditioner, on the other hand, doesn’t remove minerals from the water. Instead, it changes the structure of the calcium and magnesium ions so they can no longer form limescale.

There are different types of conditioners, including:

• Electromagnetic or electronic units
• Template-assisted crystallisation (TAC)
• Catalytic-based systems, like those offered by Halcyan

Halcyan water conditioners use a patented alloy to convert the mineral content into an inert form that flows through your system without sticking to surfaces—meaning no more limescale.

Water Softeners vs Water Conditioners: The Key Differences

While water softeners and water conditioners are seen as very similar, this is not completely true. Where water softeners remove minerals and add salt and sodium, water conditioners do not require the addition of different minerals and ultimately just modify the structure of existing minerals to soften the water. Water conditioners do not require any maintenance and with Halcyan you do not require electricity for your water conditioner as opposed to usually needing electricity for a water softener. Most importantly, the use of a water conditioner will retain the water’s natural texture and not a soft, slippery feel you get with a water softener.

Advantages of Water Softeners

Water softeners are a proven technology and have been in use for decades. They completely eliminate the minerals that cause hard water problems. With the use of a water softener, you benefit from no limescale build up around your house. Secondly, your soaps and detergents will be more effective as the calcium and magnesium you would find in hard water will no longer interfere with the soap’s ability to lather. This will effectively mean softer laundry and shinier dishes.

However, these benefits come with a number of drawbacks.

Disadvantages of Water Softeners compared to Water Conditioners

1. They Add Sodium to Your Water

Softened water contains added salt, which may not be suitable for people on low-sodium diets. You may need a separate drinking water tap installed for unsoftened water.

1. They Require Regular Maintenance

You’ll need to top up the salt and regenerate the system regularly. If you forget, the system won’t work properly.

1. They’re Not Eco-Friendly

Each regeneration cycle flushes salty water down the drain, which can be harmful to the environment and problematic in areas with strict wastewater regulations.

1. They Use Electricity

Most softeners rely on electrical systems for timers and control units, adding to energy use and cost.

Advantages of Water Conditioners

Water conditioners like Halcyan’s offer a modern, sustainable solution to hard water—without the hassle of softeners.

Halcyan water conditioners don’t use any salt or added chemicals. Your water remains natural, healthy and safe to drink straight from the tap. Once installed, there’s no need to top up salt or worry about filters or power supplies. There’s no wastewater, no salt discharge, and of course no electricity usage, Halcyan units are also fully recyclable with a 30 year lifespan making it very friendly for the environment.

Unlike softeners, Halcyan systems keep calcium and magnesium in your water, which are beneficial for bone health and general wellbeing. Water conditioners are ideal for both modern and older plumbing systems as they dont corrode pipes or clog appliances. And finally, while the upfront cost of a conditioner may be similar to a softener, there are no ongoing costs, with no salt, no servicing and no electricity.

So, Which Should You Choose?

If you’re looking for 100% scale prevention and don’t mind the ongoing maintenance or salt in your water then a tradition water softener might be suitable. However, if you want a healthier, more sustainable, and zero-maintenance solution. A water conditioner, particularly a Halcyan Water Conditioner, is a smarter choice.

You get long-term protection against limescale, support the environment, and avoid the drawbacks associated with softeners.

Why Choose Halcyan?

Halcyan is one of the UK’s most trusted names in water conditioning. Here’s why:

• 30-year warranty – Unrivalled product lifespan and peace of mind
• No running costs – Just a one-time installation
• British-made – Supporting local manufacturing and quality
• WRAS approved – Fully compliant with UK water regulations
• Proven results – Thousands of happy customers across the UK

Our patented alloy technology is trusted by homeowners, businesses, and even the NHS to deliver safe, reliable water conditioning with no fuss and no footprint.

Final Thoughts

Hard water might be a natural issue, but how you deal with it doesn’t have to come at the cost of your health, your wallet, or the environment.

While traditional water softeners do remove hard minerals, they come with a host of maintenance requirements, hidden costs, and environmental downsides. Water conditioners, particularly those from Halcyan, provide an effective, eco-conscious, and hassle-free solution that modern households are increasingly turning to.

If you’re looking for a reliable way to protect your home from limescale, while keeping your water natural and your conscience clear, a Halcyan Water Conditioner is the way to go.

Ready to say goodbye to limescale—without salt, waste, or maintenance?

Learn more about Halcyan Water Conditioners or get in touch with our team for expert advice on choosing the right system for your home.

The post Water Softeners vs Water Conditioners appeared first on Halcyan Water Conditioner.

What Are the Benefits of Installing a Separate Drinking Water Tap?

Installing a separate drinking water tap allows you to have access to clean, safe drinking water without having to worry about any potential contaminants or unpleasant tastes caused by the water softener. This is especially important if you have children or elderly family members who may be more sensitive to these issues. Additionally, having a separate tap will save you time and energy as you won’t need to worry about filtering your drinking water each time you need it.

How Does a Water Softener Affect Your Drinking Water?

A water softener works by removing minerals from your home’s water supply such as calcium and magnesium by using salt. While this can be beneficial for reducing limescale build-up in pipes and appliances, it can also affect the taste of your drinking water.

How Can You Install a Separate Drinking Water Tap?

Installing a separate drinking water tap is relatively straightforward and can usually be done in just one day with minimal disruption in most cases. While this may be a simple job for the competent DIY-er, for most it’s best to employ a professional plumber.

Is There an Alternative?

If you are searching for a way to keep your home free from limescale and would prefer not to install a separate drinking water tap, thankfully there is an alternative – you can install a water conditioner. Unlike water softeners, a water conditioner doesn’t use salts to soften your water, so you won’t experience drawbacks such as the need to install a separate tap for drinking water, or the environmental downsides often associated with salt softeners. The Halcyan Water Conditioner offers a quick and painless solution to hard water. With a very simple installation, you can enjoy the benefits of softer behaving water as our conditioner changes the way hard water behaves in your home, without impacting your drinking water supply.

Conclusion

Having access to clean, safe drinking water is essential for everyone’s health and well-being. If you have a water softener installed in your home, it is important that you also install a separate drinking water tap so that you can avoid any potential contaminants or unpleasant tastes caused by the softening process. You could look at an alternative way to have the benefits of soft water in your home by installing a Halcyan Water Conditioner, without the need to install a separate tap for your drinking water.

If you’d like to find out more about the Halcyan Water Conditioner, you can explore our Knowledge Centre and find out how it works here. You can call our expert team on 0345 504 0656 for more information on how you can heat your water for less, by installing a Halcyan.

Why choose Halcyan?

Halcyan Water Conditioners is a British company based in Bristol and our alloy-based solution to hard water is unique to the UK. As leaders in our industry, our mission is to help our customers save money, save energy and save the planet with our eco-friendly, people-friendly water conditioners. We take huge pride in our customer satisfaction and our testimonials speak for themselves. With our 30 Year Warranty and our 12 Month Money Back Performance Guarantee, you can put your trust in Halcyan Water Conditioners.

The post Why You May Need to Install a Separate Drinking Water Tap if You Have a Water Softener appeared first on Halcyan Water Conditioner.

What Is a Water Softeners System?

A water softener systemis a device that is used to reduce the amount of minerals such as calcium and magnesium in hard water. This makes it easier for people to use for washing and other household tasks, as well as reducing limescale build-up on surfaces and appliances. It works by filtering the water entering your home and removing the minerals through a process of ion exchange. Water enters a tank where negatively charged resin beads attract the positively charged minerals, removing them from the water that moves around your home. Routinely, a water softening system will flush away the collected minerals with a salt water solution and the process begins again.

The Pros of Water Softeners Systems  

There are many benefits that come with using a water softener, including:

• Reduced limescale build-up – Hard water can cause limescale build-up on surfaces and appliances which can be difficult to remove. A water softener can help reduce this problem by removing minerals from the water as it enters your home.
• Easier cleaning – Hard water can make cleaning more difficult as soap doesn’t lather up as easily in hard water compared to soft water. A water softener can make cleaning easier by removing minerals from the water which makes it easier for soap to lather up.
• Reduced damage to appliances – Hard water can cause damage to appliances over time due to mineral deposits building up inside them. A water softener can help reduce this problem by removing minerals from the water before it enters your home.

The Cons of Water Softeners Systems

While there are many benefits that come with using a water softener, there are also some drawbacks that need to be considered:

• Cost – Water softeners can be expensive to install and maintain, so they may not be an option for everyone.
• Environmental impact – The process of removing minerals from hard water requires salt which has an environmental impact as briny effluent is expelled into the watercourse.
• Health risks – Some studies have suggested that drinking softened water may increase your risk of developing certain health conditions such as heart disease or kidney stones due to its low mineral content and so many homes using salt softeners opt to install a separate tap for drinking water.

Should Water Softener Systems Be Banned in the UK?

At present, there is no ban on using or selling water softeners in the UK but some have argued that they should be banned due to their potential environmental impact and health risks associated with drinking softened water. However, others argue that banning them would be unfair as they provide many benefits such as reducing limescale build-up and making cleaning easier which outweigh any potential risks associated with their use. Ultimately, it is up to each individual person or business to weigh up the pros and cons to determine whether they choose to use a water softener or not,

What’s The Alternative?

If you’re concerned about the damaging effect of hard water on your home but want to mitigate any negative impact on the environment, there are alternatives to water softeners such as a water conditioner. These work differently to water softeners as they don’t actually remove the minerals from your water so there’s no need to flush away mineral deposits with salt or worry that the water leaving your home is harmful in any way.

Halcyan Water Conditioners are a simple and convenient alternative to water softeners. It contains a unique alloy that changes the way that water behaves. Water that has passed through a Halcyan behaves much like soft water as it passes through your appliances and plumbing! Just a few weeks or months after installing a Halcyan, our clever conditioner will actually work to remove existing limescale from your home as well as preventing new limescale from forming.

The best news of all is that the Halcyan Water Conditioner is an eco-friendly and people-friendly solution to hard water!

Conclusion

While there is currently no ban on water softeners in the UK, there is a growing concern regarding their environmental impact and the potential health risks associated with drinking salt-softened water. Although water softeners offer several benefits such as reducing limescale build-up and making cleaning easier, alternatives like water conditioners may be a more eco-friendly and people-friendly solution to hard water. Ultimately, it is up to each individual to weigh the benefits and drawbacks of using a water softener or an alternative and make an informed decision.

If you’d like to find out more about the Halcyan Water Conditioner, you can explore our Knowledge Centre and find out how it works here. You can call our expert team on 0345 504 0656 for more information on whether you have hard water and how you can benefit from installing a Halcyan.

Why choose Halcyan?

Halcyan Water Conditioners is a British company based in Bristol and our alloy-based solution to hard water is unique to the UK. Unlike water softeners, our alloy-based Water Conditioner is an eco-friendly, people-friendly solution to hard water. With our 30 Year Warranty and our 12 Month Money Back Performance Guarantee, you protect your home now and into the future with Halcyan.

The post Water Softeners Systems : Will Water Softeners Be Banned in the UK? appeared first on Halcyan Water Conditioner.

When it comes to choosing a hard water treatment solution, there are a lot of factors to consider. From the size of your home to your budget and even your environmental goals, selecting the right product can be confusing. In this blog post, we’ll discuss the different types of hard water treatment solutions and what you should look for when making your decision.

So, what are the options?

Your hard water treatment options can be put into three categories: Water Softeners, Water Conditioners and Scale Inhibitors. They all work in different ways and with varying results, so it’s important you do your research before committing to any purchase.

As we mentioned before, Water Softeners (also known as Salt Softeners) are the traditional way of dealing with hard water. In comparison to other methods, they tend to be at the top end when it comes to expense, and they require regular salt top-ups for them to remain effective which adds to your ongoing costs. You can learn more about how Water Softeners work here.

A much lesser known solution is Water Conditioners. They come in a range of shapes and sizes which use different technologies. Because there is such a large range, pricing also varies, as does effectiveness. However, there are usually now ongoing maintenance costs associated with Water Conditioners which keeps the running cost low. You can find out more about Water Conditioners in this blog.

Last but not least, Scale Inhibitors are the third solution to hard water in the home. They are at the lower end of the scale when it comes to cost but they typically only protect one piece of equipment, not the entire home. For an overview of how Scale Inhibitors work, click here.

Factors to consider when choosing a hard water treatment solution

It’s important you thoroughly research the options before you commit to a hard water treatment solution. As we have already eluded to, there are three main types of solution which vary in cost, longevity and effectiveness. Here are some of the key points you should consider when researching the right solution for your home:

Type: As mentioned above, there are several types of water treatment solutions available on the market today. Consider which type best suits your needs before making your decisio

Cost: Different types of units come with different price tags so be sure to factor cost into your decision-making process.

Size: Scale Inhibitors are small devices which are fitted to each individual appliance, Water Conditioners are typically in-line devices that are plumed into your incoming water supply, while Water Softeners are usually much larger and may even require an entire cupboard to house them.

Maintenance: Some units require more maintenance than others so be sure to research how much maintenance each type requires before making your purchase.

Lifespan: The lifespan of hard water treatment options varies greatly, from just a few years up to 30+ years.

Environmental Goals: If you’re concerned about the environmental impact of your hard water solution, you may wish to avoid Water Softeners which use salt and expel briny effluent into the watercourse.

Conclusion

Choosing the right solution for your home can be tricky but with some research and consideration you can find one that meets all your needs and fits within your budget. Be sure to take into account size, type, cost and maintenance when making your decision so that you get the most out of your purchase.

To find out if the Halcyan Water Conditioner is right for you, call our expert team for free advice on 0345 504 0656.

The post Which Water Softener Is Right for Me? appeared first on Halcyan Water Conditioner.

So how do magnetic systems work?

A magnetic inhibitor works by running your water through a magnetic field. There are many different models and configurations of magnetic device on the market. These range from simplistic systems of 2 magnets strapped to either side of the pipework to integrated inline devices.

Different manufacturers will often use differing explanations for how their systems work. But, to generalise, the magnetic field induces ionization in the water. This affects the surface charge of the mineral particles in the water encouraging them to stay in solution rather than bonding to other surfaces. It has been suggested that the further these particles travel from the magnetic field the faster the effect on them disappears. This means that magnetic systems may have a limited range of effectiveness.

What is the evidence they work?

Sadly much of the research around this subject, as with many topics in the hard water space, is mixed and inconclusive. There have been several studies on the subject. Some have shown that the magnetic field influences the water but then others have been unable to reproduce this effect. In many of these cases however, experimental methodology was changed. This suggesting that there may be certain conditions in which these magnetic systems are effective an others where they are not. Because of the limited amount of research done in this area the mechanism behind the magnetic effect on hard water is poorly understood. It has been suggested that a physical process, the Lorenz force may be the underlying cause.

Are these systems effective?

As mentioned previously that is a hard question to answer the evidence is mixed. Generally the view of magnetic systems is fairly negative but equally there are many who swear by them. Most magnetic systems tend to be marketed as inhibitors. As such are designed to treat a single piece of equipment such as a boiler rather than as whole house devices. This makes sense when the range limitations of magnetic systems are considered.

Final Thoughts:

We hope this has a helped to demystify magnetic water softening somewhat. We’re sorry we couldn’t be more conclusive! The one thing to keep in mind if you are considering a magnetic system is to avoid any businesses which market their systems as water softeners as this is misleading. If you’d like to know more about the different options available to you to treat your water checkout our article on the subject below:

All you need to know about Conditioners and Softeners

The post What is Magnetic Water Softening? appeared first on Halcyan Water Conditioner.

What is the impact of water softeners?

The main environmental problem caused by softeners is the release of chlorides into the water ways, whilst in the UK the effects of this are fairly minimal in other areas of the world where water is more scarce water softeners add to a growing issue of water contamination, for this reason water softeners are banned in some areas. The other environmental issue is water usage. Water softeners use extra water in their regeneration process, when water is scarce this is a wasteful use of water.

However, it isn’t all bad. Water softeners, despite their issues can help the environment by preventing limescale accumulation. The question then is whether this makes up for their other sustainability downsides?

Are there better versions?

There are much more efficient makes and models of water softeners which go a way towards addressing the issues we’ve just mentioned. More efficient systems, particularly metered models, use both less salt and less water in their regeneration process. But whilst this does reduce the softeners impact it doesn’t remove it completely. Another way in which water softeners can reduce their impact is through using potassium instead of sodium, this is more expensive however and comes with its own environmental implications.

Is there an alternative?

Whilst an eco-friendly water softener isn’t something that is available there are alternative systems designed to deal with hard water and limescale. These are known as water conditioners. Most conditioners require minimal maintenance (if there is any at all), don’t add anything into the water and don’t use up extra water in their process. Some conditioners, such as the Halcyan are also very long lasting. The Halcyan can treat a home for 30 years without a reduction in efficiency. This means fewer replacements and therefore less waste. If sustainability is important to you then it will be more than worth your while to take a look at water conditioners.

Final Thoughts:

So is there such a thing as an eco friendly water softener? Sadly not, but there are models that do a better job and more importantly alternative water treatment systems available. If you’d like to find out more about Halcyan in particular please check out the rest of our website!

Find out more about Halcyan!

The post Is there such a thing as an Eco Friendly Water Softener appeared first on Halcyan Water Conditioner.

What is a water conditioner?

Water Conditioner are systems which treat hard water by targeting the hard water minerals directly rather than removing them as water softeners do. There are several different kinds of water conditioner ranging from electronic to catalytic all the way to TAC (template assisted crystallization) systems. Whilst these systems all differ in their methodology the end goal is the same. To change the structure of the hard minerals in the water so that they behave differently and no longer bond to surfaces.

How do they differ?

There are several key differences between water softeners and water conditioners, the most obvious is that water conditioners do not use salt in their process. This makes them (as a rule of thumb) better for the environment. Conditioners as mentioned previously do not remove the hard minerals from the water and instead alter the way they behave, this means that conditioners do not soften the water, though some brands can offer some of the benefits that soft water provides. Conditioners, barring TAC systems are usually much more compact than water softeners and are much easier to fit.

Why a conditioner over a softener?

So why would you choose a conditioner over a softener? There are three reasons you would opt to choose a water conditioner as an alterative:

 

• You do not want to deal with the upkeep, costs and maintenance a water softener requires
• You are concerned about the environmental impact a water softener can have
• You lack the space for a water softener

 

If your main concern is to have true soft water in your property then the only way to achieve this is through using a traditional water softener or expensive Reverse Osmosis systems.

Final Thoughts:

Hopefully this article has given you a good summary of the available alternative to traditional water softening. If you would like to delve into more detail on the different kinds of systems available please make sure to follow the links scattered throughout the article. If you’d like to know more about Halcyan how it works and the benefits it provides then please take a look through the rest of our website:

Find out more about Halcyan!

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What is softened water?

Water softeners work through a process called ion exchange, in brief hard water mineral ions are replaced with sodium ions. This means the concentration of sodium is increased while the ‘hardness’ is decreased. The concentration of sodium in softened water depends on how hard the water is. The harder the water the more sodium. Some softeners can use potassium instead of sodium in their exchange process removing the concern entirely. Managing the amount of sodium we consume is a dietary concern especially for people with high blood pressure. Another concern for people is whether soft water is more corrosive and leaches metals, such as lead into the water.

Soft Water – Corrosion, Leaching and Health

So what do the experts say concerning softened water? As with all things in this industry there is very little objective evidence concerning the subject in one way or another. Where corrosion and leaching is concerned the consensus seems to be that this is not really an issue with softened water as it is with naturally soft water. A couple of studies, such as a pilot study by the EPA in the U.S have shown that softening water does not have a significant impact on the corrosivity of the water. This suggests that leaching of metals from pipework should be a minor concern at the very most.

Soft Water – Sodium Concentration and Health

The DWI, British Water and WRAS all recommend ensuring that a drinking tap is left un-softened in the home. This is also standard practice for most softener installers. But what if for some reason you don’t have a separate drinking tap?  Unless your water is tremendously hard, the sodium content in the water will be relatively low.

However it is important to note that if you suffer from hypertension (high blood pressure) or are diabetic it is important to be much more cautious. Babies also definitely shouldn’t consume softened water, at all, as it can cause some quite serious issues. There are almost no studies on the long term health effects of drinking softened water so whilst we and many others can make educated guesses on its effects, until there is a robust study on the subject nothing is truly conclusive.

Final Thoughts

So is Soft Water Safe for Drinking? Overall drinking softened water shouldn’t be viewed as a serious health hazard. However it’s better to follow current regulations and make sure you do have a separate drinking tap just in case. This becomes far more mandatory if you are in one of the more at-risk groups. Until there is more rigorous study on the impact of softened water on health it is best to play it safe. You could also look into alternatives such as water conditioners where this isn’t an issue, and you are able to drink the same hard water without the associated problems. If you’d like more info on water conditioners then make sure to check out our article on the subject below!

Why not check out our most popular water conditioner, the ‘Favourite’ Whole House Unit. Fit in under an hour by a plumber, this water conditioner will protect your home for 30 years and you don’t need to worry about installing a separate drinking water tap!

What are water conditioners?

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