Question 1

What exactly is "hard water" and why is it so common in Burnet County?

Accepted Answer

Hard water contains high levels of dissolved minerals, primarily calcium and magnesium. Our region's water source, the Trinity Aquifer, flows through vast deposits of limestone, which is rich in these minerals. While safe to drink, this hardness causes the scale buildup that damages appliances and makes cleaning difficult.

Question 2

What is the best solution for fixing hard water problems?

Accepted Answer

The most effective solution is a whole-home water softener. A softener uses a process called ion exchange to physically remove the hardness minerals from your water. This protects your entire plumbing system, extends the life of water-using appliances, reduces soap and detergent usage, and leaves your skin, hair, and dishes feeling cleaner.

Question 3

What are the signs I have hard water?

Accepted Answer

Common signs include white or chalky buildup on faucets and showerheads, spots on dishes and glassware, soap that doesn't lather well, dry or itchy skin after showering, dull or stiff laundry, and reduced water pressure. You may also notice your water heater and appliances failing prematurely due to scale buildup.

Question 4

How does a water softener work?

Accepted Answer

A water softener uses a process called ion exchange. Water flows through a tank filled with resin beads charged with sodium ions. As hard water passes through, the calcium and magnesium minerals stick to the beads while sodium ions are released into the water. Periodically, the system regenerates by flushing the beads with salt water to remove the minerals and recharge the resin.

Question 5

What's the difference between a water softener and a water filter?

Accepted Answer

Water softeners remove hardness minerals (calcium and magnesium) to prevent scale buildup and improve water feel. Water filters remove contaminants like chlorine, sediment, bacteria, and chemicals to improve taste, odor, and safety. Many homes benefit from both systems working together—a softener for the whole house and additional filtration for drinking water.

Question 6

Do I need a whole-house filter or just a drinking water filter?

Accepted Answer

It depends on your water quality and concerns. If your municipal water has chlorine taste/odor or you have sediment issues, a whole-house filter improves water throughout your home for bathing and laundry. For drinking water safety and taste, an under-sink reverse osmosis (RO) system provides the highest level of filtration. We can test your water and recommend the right solution.

Question 7

How often do water treatment systems need maintenance?

Accepted Answer

Water softeners need salt refilled regularly (monthly to quarterly, depending on usage) and professional servicing annually. Reverse osmosis systems need filter changes every 6-12 months and membrane replacement every 2-3 years. Whole-house filters vary by type but typically need filter changes every 3-6 months. We offer maintenance plans to keep your systems running optimally.

Question 8

Will a water softener make my water taste salty?

Accepted Answer

No. While water softeners use salt for regeneration, the amount of sodium added to softened water is minimal and typically unnoticeable. If you're on a strict low-sodium diet, you can install a reverse osmosis system at your kitchen sink for drinking and cooking water, or opt for a potassium-based softener instead of sodium.

Question 9

How much does a water treatment system cost?

Accepted Answer

Costs vary based on the system type and your home's needs. Basic whole-house water softeners start around $1,500-2,500 installed. Reverse osmosis drinking water systems range from $400-1,500. Whole-house filtration systems vary widely from $800-3,000+ depending on features. We provide free water testing and detailed quotes to help you choose the right system for your budget.

Water Treatment FAQs

Common Questions About Water Filtration

Need help with your water quality?

Need Water Filtration Service?

Water Treatment FAQs

Common Questions About Water Filtration

Need help with your water quality?

Need Water Filtration Service?