Plumbing issues often emerge at the most inconvenient times. Addressing essential home plumbing requirements can prevent issues and save you money. This guide will walk you through the basics of plumbing and keeping your water system running smoothly.
Learn moreDrainage systems make wastewater disappear whenever toilets are flushed or hands are washed in buildings and residential properties. But for all the functions that drainage helps make possible—dishes, laundry, showers—few people stop and think about the mechanisms that go into the process.
Learn more
Every homeowner dreads plumbing issues. Fortunately, we understand the worries that come with plumbing problems. This guide will help you understand when to opt for a repair and when to replace your plumbing system.
Learn moreThere are three different types of wastewater (a polite way to say sewage!): domestic sewage, industrial sewage, and storm sewage.
Learn more
Home water-softener systems hold the potential to improve people’s quality of life. A good system can eliminate the daily ir
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Since the original Mr. Rooter was founded in 1970, the company has remained committed to a set of core values that are rooted in performing quality work at honest prices. Nearly half a century later, the original Mr. Rooter business is still servicing homes and businesses in and around Oklahoma City. It’s still independently owned and operated with strong ties to the community that made it all possible.
Drainage systems make wastewater disappear whenever toilets are flushed or hands are washed in buildings and residential properties. But for all the functions that drainage helps make possible—dishes, laundry, showers—few people stop and think about the mechanisms that go into the process. The whole thing basically comes down to two types of systems: sewer and septic.
\nSewer systems are more common because they're funded and maintained by local governments. Septic systems, however, are becoming more popular as an affordable, environmentally sound alternative that give homeowners full control over their drainage. The following article examines the facts, pros, and cons of the whole septic vs sewer system debate.
\nWhen it comes to the sewer vs. septic system debate, a lot of half-truths and outright inaccuracies persist in the minds of many homeowners. Sewers, on one hand, are generally viewed as the cheaper, easier option because there's no maintenance involved. All you need to do is wash something down a drain or flush it down a toilet and it's gone forever.
\nWhile septic systems are sometimes viewed as the more eco-friendly option, many people are apprehensive about the costs and maintenance involved. As a result, homeowners often perceive more resale value in houses linked to sewer lines over those equipped with septic systems. But does the latter really cost more and require frequent maintenance? Read on to learn the benefits of sewer vs septic systems.
\nIn many ways, sewers and septic systems offer the same benefits. Both systems filter out black water — the water you flush — and grey water, which comes out of sink and shower drains. In terms of sanitation, both systems filter bacteria and pathogens from water before it flows back out into the environment. Basically, the two systems both offer reliable drainage of wastewater from houses and buildings with minimal problems the majority of the time.
\nBoth systems, however, can also have their drawbacks. A sewer system connects whole communities to one centralized drain field. Consequently, sewers can sometimes get clogged with grease, hair, and hard elements, all of which can cause sewage to plug up sinks, toilets, and bathtubs. Since sewage systems are paid for and maintained by local governments, residents don't have to handle the maintenance and labor, but they do have to foot the fees.
\nSeptic systems, by contrast, are generally the responsibility of private homeowners. A septic tank should perform without a hitch over expected time spans, providing the tank is pumped and maintained at recommended intervals. If a tank does malfunction, it's likely due to negligence on the part of the homeowner, and therefore it’s his or her responsibility to call out a service crew and pay for the needed repairs.
\n\nA septic system is a steel or concrete tank that's situated under the soil near a commercial or residential property. Wastewater goes in on one side and filters out through the other to a drain field. Most tanks are capable of holding 1,000 gallons of water. Inside the tank, the water splits into three layers. Everything that floats rises to the top, which is known as the scum layer. All the heavy material sinks to the bottom, which is known as the sludge layer. Between the two is a layer of clear water, which contains fertilizing chemicals like phosphorus and nitrogen.
\nWastewater is led into the tank through a series of pipes that connect to the toilets, bathtubs, sinks, and laundry machines in a given house or building. As scum is rinsed out of the wastewater, the tank produces rancid gases which are filtered through vent pipes that funnel out of rooftops. With each influx of wastewater, the tank empties earlier loads through distribution boxes that lead to drain fields.
\nWhile the considerable costs of septic system repairs are often discussed, what isn't as well known is the fact that municipal sewer systems can also come with some hefty costs. For starters, homeowners can be charged pricey fees for installation and repairs on newer sewage systems. Many communities even impose what are known as Sewer Betterment fees, which can rise into the five figures. As revealed by Hopkinton Mass.-based realtor Bill Gassett, the recent Betterment fee in his town was $16,000.
\nDebates have been waged between municipal boards regarding the best possible ways to handle sewer development costs, which are known to rise as new pumping stations are constructed. Certain municipalities have even gone so far as to impose liens on homes that haven't paid their fees. Houses everywhere could be subject to such costs, but properties situated in sparsely populated areas stand to pay the highest fees, due to the small number of taxpayers who reside in such areas to share the costs. Even if the pipes and pumps are already in place, there are still fees involved in linking a house to a nearby system, the costs of which can rack up into the thousands on top of maintenance and usage fees.
\nSewer fees differ from city to city, but specific localized rates per household include the following:
\nOn the other hand, the cost of having a septic tank is merely down to pumping, which only needs to be done every 3-5 years and generally falls within a price-range $200 to $300. With proper maintenance, some tanks can go for a decade or more between pumps.
\nAnother issue that factors into the pricing comparison is the business surrounding sewage systems, which have become subject to an ever-growing set of complex, costly improvements. Septic systems, by contrast, only need minor touchups to work perfectly over lengthy spans of time. On average, a septic system for a standard-sized household on even land and healthy soil will run anywhere from $3,500 to $6,000. Depending on the type of tank, septic systems generally last for the following lengths of time:
\nWith proper maintenance, septic drain fields typically last 20 years, though some could possibly last for half a century.
\nAs the public becomes better informed about the needs of the environment, septic tanks are becoming a selling point for properties in the minds of younger homebuyers. The reason for this shift in opinion is that septic tanks are reputed to be the green-friendly alternative to old fashioned sewer systems.
\nWith sewer systems, energy and chemicals are needed to pump and treat the water. Concerns have developed over the impact this could have on rivers as the bacteria of sewage stream outward. There are also issues involving the stability of treatment plants, which can overflow in times of intense downpour or overuse.
\nNone of those problems are an issue with septic systems, which pump and treat water without the need for energy or chemicals. Used water is returned to the aquifer, which never overflows if properly maintained. Since such systems are evenly distributed, there's no single point at which treated outflows are run from large communities of houses and buildings. Wastewater, by contrast, is carried away in small, even amounts. In many communities, particularly those that are modestly populated, septic systems are the cost-efficient answer for sanitation and water quality concerns.
\nPerhaps the most liberating aspect of owning a septic system is the ability to set one up virtually anywhere with healthy soil. For a new house in a remote area, connecting to a sewer system is usually costly and difficult. In some cases, it’s even impossible due to the lack of nearby sewage lines. For those situations in particular, septic systems are a viable, cost-effective alternative. Furthermore, septic systems don't come with the municipal obligations of sewage lines, so there's no need to worry about pipes, pumping stations, replacements, or infrastructural renovation costs.
\nNonetheless, sewer systems do have the power to handle large amounts of wastewater from the collective addresses of cities, towns, and suburbs. Due to the marketability of houses on sewer lines, many homeowners still prefer such properties. Sewer lines are also built to accommodate the largest possible amounts of water; as such, they can take on storms and periods of heavy downpour. Since the management of sewer lines fall on local governments, people often assume that such systems will be better managed in the most well-financed and capable of hands. Furthermore, the thought of having wastewater conveniently sent to one big treatment center is an attractive prospect to any homeowner who has endured a septic system backup.
\nGiven these differences, the preference between one system or the other could largely be based on one's independent mindedness as a homeowner. If you don't mind the municipal obligations that can factor into your dependence on a centralized sewer system, then that might be the adequate option, especially if you're likely to change addresses every few years or less. But if you want independence as a homeowner and are looking to choose a remote or custom-built residence and have personal responsibility for the running of your wastewater, then a septic system would be the more ideal option.
\nWhenever it comes to existing properties, the choice between a sewer or septic system is usually not even on the table. But if you move into a septic-based community where all the neighbors are lobbying to have a sewer line, the choice would likely be yours to either opt in or stick with a septic tank.
\nIf you're having a home custom built on some remote hill, deep forest, or sparse rural environment, a septic system will likely be your only choice. Within this context, a septic system would be the more suitable option anyway. After all, the independence and responsibility of maintaining such a system would go hand-in-hand with the will to live in a remote, custom-built property. For instance, if you were to buy a few acres of land out in some deep, green, spacious forest area, and then you built a house yourself on that land and proceeded to own it free and clear, owning your own drainage system, independent of local government, would complete the picture.
\nProblems with septic systems usually come down to the negligence of property owners. When a tank isn't adequately maintained, the outflow can be detrimental to lake water purity and hazardous to the surrounding environment. For example, if wastewater isn't sufficiently treated, it can spread contamination to other water and cause human health threats. As stated by the University of Minnesota Extension (UMNE) in its Septic System Owner’s Guide, the way to \"guarantee effective treatment is to have a trained professional ensure [that] adequate, unsaturated, and suitable soil exists below the soil treatment area to allow for complete wastewater treatment.\"
\nUMNE has also linked contaminated sewage to the appearance of hepatitis and dysentery pathogens in tap water. Contaminants, for instance, can infect drinking water with higher levels of nitrate, which can take its toll on people with weak immune systems, as well as toddlers and pregnant women. Increased nitrates are even damaging to the air and water quality of surrounding ecosystems, thereby devastating the flora and fauna of a given area. Furthermore, bugs and rodents that fester in areas with sewage-contaminated wetlands can spread diseases to people, pets, and livestock. With all these things taken into consideration, it's crucial to keep your septic system well maintained throughout the time that you own and reside at a given property. To prevent the sludge layer from rising too high, the system should be cleaned and inspected at least every few years.
\nOf course, maintenance and pumping of the tank itself is merely half of what it takes to responsibly run a drainage system; a lot of it also comes down to how you treat the pipes that lead to the tank. In order to prevent the pipes from clogging, don't allow grease, hair, or hard particles to slip down your sink or shower drains. Furthermore, don't plant trees or other heavily rooted plants either on or near the area of soil in which the system lies, because roots and bulbs can grow stronger as time passes and ultimately damage drainage pipes. After all, the purpose of having a septic tank is to enjoy good, clean, affordable, eco-friendly drainage for the full span of your time on a given property. When you do decide to sell, a perfectly operating septic system could also add value to your property.
\nIf you're in need of maintenance or pumping on your septic system, contact Mr. Rooter Plumbing of Syracuse. We provide plumbing repair, drain cleaning, maintenance, and installation of septic systems in the Greater Syracuse area. Call us today to learn more about our services or to schedule an appointment. We’ll send a licensed plumber who is certified by Onondaga County for plumbing leak detection or any plumbing related project.
\n\r\n"}, { "custom_dt_modified":"2026-07-08T11:17:35Z", "custom_s_local_url":"/greater-syracuse/about-us/blog/when-to-repair-vs-replace-with-plumbing/", "custom_s_opus_version":"2", "custom_s_heading":"When To Repair vs. Replace With Plumbing", "custom_s_local_dba":"greater-syracuse", "custom_dt_created":"2026-02-11T00:00:00Z", "custom_s_category":"plumbing", "custom_ss_category":["plumbing"], "custom_s_article_summary_Image_url":"", "custom_t_content_summary_Desc":"Every homeowner dreads plumbing issues. Fortunately, we understand the worries that come with plumbing problems. This guide will help you understand when to opt for a repair and when to replace your plumbing system.", "custom_t_content_summary_Image_url_alt":"", "custom_t_heading":"When To Repair vs. Replace With Plumbing", "custom_t_content":"Quick Answer — 7 Signs You Should Replace Plumbing Instead of Repairing It:
\nEvery homeowner dreads plumbing issues. Maybe you are dealing with a leaky faucet or low water pressure and are wondering if you should repair the issue or consider a complete replacement. Fortunately, we understand the worries that come with plumbing problems. This guide will help you understand when to opt for a repair and when to replace your plumbing system.
\nYour home's plumbing system constantly works behind the scenes to bring in clean water and remove wastewater. With all that action, it is natural for issues to arise. Here are some common plumbing problems you may experience:
\nHere is how to tell when a repair might suffice and when it is smarter to invest in a replacement.
\nIf you are experiencing persistent leaks, it could mean your pipes are nearing the end of their life span. A single leak is often repairable, but consistent leaks may signal an issue with the plumbing system. Repeatedly patching leaks can add up in cost and cause water damage to your home. Replacing the pipes or the entire plumbing system can be a better long-term solution.
\nCorroded pipes affect water quality and may weaken the plumbing system's components. Replacing old pipes can resolve water quality issues and ensure clean water flows through your fixtures. If the discoloration only occurs with hot water, your water heater may need a flush or replacement.
\nWater that smells metallic or sulfuric suggests issues within the plumbing system. Metallic or rusty smells indicate corrosion, while sulfur-like odors may point to bacteria growth. If these odors persist, consult a plumber to replace your plumbing system.
\nCracks often lead to leaks, which can damage surrounding areas, attract mold growth and increase your water bill. Smaller cracks may be repairable, but replacing cracked pipes or fixtures is better. Contact a professional for plumbing pipe repairs.
\nIf you are constantly dealing with slow drains — even after repeated professional cleaning — it could signal damaged or narrowed pipes. Buildup accumulates in aging pipes and further restricts water flow. A licensed plumber can clear these clogs and restore normal water flow. Replacing pipes will improve drainage and prevent ongoing issues.
\nA bright green lawn in specific patches may look healthy, but it could actually signal a sewer line leak. Sewer leaks release biological waste into the soil and create lush growth in affected areas. If you notice unusually green patches, standing water or a foul odor in your yard, contact a professional for a sewer line replacement.
\nA sudden increase in your water bill might point to a leak. Look for visible leaks, and if you can't locate the issue, a plumber can help you identify the source. If you discover multiple small leaks or have aging pipes, replacing them with newer material may bring your bill back to normal.
\nEach season brings different plumbing challenges, so here are a few essential maintenance tasks to focus on throughout the year to keep your system in good shape.
\nSpring is ideal for a full plumbing checkup after the winter. Follow this upkeep checklist to ensure your system is ready for the months ahead:
\nSummer's higher temperatures can make detecting and fixing other plumbing issues much easier. Here are some steps to take:
\nFollow this checklist during fall to winterize your plumbing system:
\nCold winter conditions can lead to frozen pipes. Here are precautions you can take to protect your system:
\nHere is how to vet plumbing professionals in Syracuse.
\nChoosing a licensed plumber means working with a qualified professional who prioritizes safety and follows relevant codes. Additionally, local experience is invaluable. New York's specific climate, water quality and environmental conditions require plumbing professionals familiar with Syracuse who can offer insights and solutions for your home's plumbing system.
\nA reliable plumber should offer a comprehensive range of services. This includes emergency repairs, scheduled maintenance and expertise in various plumbing issues. This expertise means you get an all-in-one provider to meet your needs.
\nNo one likes hidden fees or unexpected costs. A reputable plumber will provide upfront pricing and transparent quotes so you can budget accordingly. Look for a plumber who explains the project's scope, discusses potential additional costs and provides written estimates. Some plumbers value upfront pricing with no overtime charges, so you know what you are working with before any job begins.
\nCustomer service quality can tell you a lot about a plumber's professionalism. Seek companies that treat you with respect, are courteous and provide clear communication. Additionally, look for professionals who take safety precautions and keep their work areas clean.
\nPlumbing emergencies do not follow a schedule, so issues like a burst pipe or sewer backups need immediate attention. Partner with a plumbing company that offers emergency services so you are covered when an issue arises. Mr. Rooter Plumbing of Greater Syracuse offers emergency plumbing repairs in towns across Syracuse, so you have access to help when you need it most.
\nChoosing the right plumber can make all the difference in the quality and reliability of your plumbing system. Mr. Rooter of Greater Syracuse has a team of licensed plumbers ready to assist with plumbing leak detection or any plumbing-related project. Our professionals can address routine maintenance, plumbing pipe replacement or sewer line replacement.
\nNo matter what your plumbing needs are, we're here to serve residential and commercial customers in Syracuse, NY. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.
\r\n"}, { "custom_dt_modified":"2026-07-08T11:03:45Z", "custom_s_local_url":"/greater-syracuse/about-us/blog/what-is-domestic-sewage-/", "custom_s_opus_version":"2", "custom_s_heading":"What Is Domestic Sewage?", "custom_s_local_dba":"greater-syracuse", "custom_dt_created":"2015-11-01T00:00:00Z", "custom_s_category":"plumbing", "custom_ss_category":["plumbing"], "custom_s_article_summary_Image_url":"", "custom_t_content_summary_Desc":"There are three different types of wastewater (a polite way to say sewage!): domestic sewage, industrial sewage, and storm sewage.", "custom_t_content_summary_Image_url_alt":"", "custom_t_heading":"What Is Domestic Sewage?", "custom_t_content":"There are three different types of wastewater (a polite way to say sewage!): domestic sewage, industrial sewage, and storm sewage. Domestic sewage is the used water from houses and apartments, mostly coming from the kitchen, bathroom, and laundry sources. Things like dishwashing, the garbage disposal, and of course baths and showers are included in the mix.
\nDomestic sewage contains much more than just water. It contains anything that might go down the drains, soaps, bits of food, hair, and anything else that might get flushed down. It’s filled with organic materials and plant nutrients that tend to rot along the way.
\nThe various soaps and powders that we use to clean our house and laundry can sometimes contain harmful chemicals. These chemicals, when added into the sewage supply can affect the health of all forms of life in the water. When sewage enters a lake or stream, microorganisms begin to decompose the organic materials.
\nSome people say “the solution to pollution is dilution”. Try to say that three times fast! When small amounts of sewage are discharged into a flowing body of water, a natural process of stream self-purification occurs. Instead of discharging sewage directly into a nearby body of water, it’s better to let it pass through a combination of physical, biological, and chemical processes that remove some or most of the pollutants – this takes place in sewage treatment plants and of coursepersonal septic systems.
\nSewage treatment plants and septic tanks neutralize and deactivate the chemicals found in wastewater. They work by relying on bacteria that will eat away the nitrates and organic matter that is found in the wastewater. Restoration of wetlands in certain areas can also help both the environment as well as treating domestic sewage before it pollutes the natural waterways.
\nDon’t flush things that don’t belong! Don’t flush wet wipes, sanitary napkins, or things like cotton swabs. Make sure your children know what goes down the toilet and the garbage disposal. If it doesn’t belong, bag it or if it’s organic, compost it!
\r\n"}, { "custom_dt_modified":"2026-07-08T11:00:10Z", "custom_s_local_url":"/greater-syracuse/about-us/blog/touch-vs-touchless-faucet/", "custom_s_opus_version":"2", "custom_s_heading":"Touch vs. Touchless Faucet", "custom_s_local_dba":"greater-syracuse", "custom_dt_created":"2019-11-01T00:00:00Z", "custom_s_category":"plumbing", "custom_ss_category":["plumbing"], "custom_s_article_summary_Image_url":"/us/en-us/mr-rooter/_assets/images/mrr-blog-faucet-with-touch-vs.-touchless-faucet-.webp", "custom_t_content_summary_Desc":"", "custom_t_content_summary_Image_url_alt":"2-cleanliness.jpg", "custom_t_heading":"Touch vs. Touchless Faucet", "custom_t_content":"![\"Faucet](\"http://www.mrrooter.com/us/en-us/mr-rooter/_assets/images/mrr-blog-faucet-with-touch-vs.-touchless-faucet-.webp\")
There are many types of kitchen sinks and faucets to consider when you are upgrading your kitchen, so you may overlook less common options like touch and touchless faucets. Touch and touchless faucets are more than just neat or novelty kitchen gadgets. They can make using the sink more convenient, can help you conserve water and can help you keep your kitchen clean and germ-free.
\nIf you are looking to upgrade your standard kitchen faucet, both touch and touchless faucets are great options to consider, but you may find that one is a better fit for what you're looking for.
\nTouch and touchless faucets may sound like opposites, but they are actually quite similar. Both types of faucets are innovative versions of the traditional kitchen faucet. Unlike a traditional faucet, which requires a person to pull or push a handle, touch and touchless faucets minimize the action required to turn the tap on and off. The difference between the two is that a touch-sensitive kitchen faucet responds to physical touch, while a touchless faucet detects the presence of something in front of it.
\nHow can a kitchen faucet turn on and off with a single touch? The answer comes down to electricity. Whenever you shock someone by touching them in the winter, it is a reminder that our bodies have the capacity to store electrical energy, known as capacitance. A touch-sensitive faucet also maintains an electrical charge and is equipped with a sensor that picks up on an increase in that charge when you touch it.
\nThese sensors are even sophisticated enough to tell the difference in a single touch and a more prolonged grab that might occur when you're moving the faucet or cleaning it. The sensor is designed to only turn on and off with a single touch and shouldn't react at all to a longer grab.
\nThere are some valuable benefits of touch-sensitive kitchen faucets, including:
\n![\"Person](\"http://www.mrrooter.com/us/en-us/mr-rooter/_assets/images/mrr-blog-person-washing-hands-with-text-about-touch-sensitive-faucets.webp\")
There aren't many cons to a touch faucet. Some homeowners do not consider them because they cost more than traditional sink faucets. However, they can save you money over time by reducing water usage since they have automatic faucet shut-off. Installation is more involved with these faucets than standard faucets, though, so you will want to depend on professional help. If you use electrical power to run the faucet, you may see an increase in your energy usage. But you can also opt for battery power.
\nLike touch faucets, touchless faucets — also called touch-free faucets — use sensors. These sensors are not designed to detect physical touch. Instead, they sense the presence of your hand or something else in front of the faucet. Most hands free faucets do this with an infrared detector paired with an infrared light. When your hand moves in front of the sensor, the infrared light bounces off of your hand and into the detector.
\nThat means all you have to do to turn the faucet on and off is to move your hand in front of the faucet. There are other types of sensors on the market, too, such as ultrasonic field sensors. With these sensors, your hand moving in front of the sensor disrupts the field, signaling the faucet to turn on or off.
\nNow, let's talk about the pros and cons of touchless kitchen sink faucets. You will notice these pros closely mirror those of touch faucets:
\nLike touch faucets, touchless faucets also tend to cost more than traditional faucets. Another downside is that, since this faucet uses electric power, a power outage means you won't be able to use your faucet's sensor. This is not an issue if you use batteries to power your faucet. The other issue you may run into with touch-free faucets is accidental activation. You may be moving dishes, for example, and turn the faucet on unintentionally. Pets can also turn the faucet on if they climb over the sink.
\n![\"Brass](\"http://www.mrrooter.com/us/en-us/mr-rooter/_assets/images/mrr-blog-brass-faucet-with-text-about-touch-and-touchless-faucets.webp\")
Both touch and touchless faucets can be impressive upgrades compared to a traditional faucet. Both options exist because people have different preferences on which is best. People who find they are frequently turning on their kitchen sink with dough, raw meat or other food on their hands may want a completely touchless experience. The same may be true for people who get their hands dirty with other tasks like gardening or pottery. When you want water on-demand with no mess, touchless faucets are the ideal choice.
\nSome people prefer a touch faucet because it offers more control to the user. It is less likely to accidentally turn the faucet on or off when you have to physically touch as opposed to make a motion in front of it. Since you can activate these faucets by touching them with a wrist or elbow, you can usually still avoid transferring the mess on your hands onto the faucet.
\nAre you ready to discover the benefits of a touch-sensitive or touchless faucet? It is best to get professional installation anytime you are investing in an important appliance or product like an upgraded faucet. At Mr. Rooter of Syracuse, we have the experience and knowledge needed for expert installation of these faucets. Call us for advice on which faucet to purchase or to schedule an installation. We can help you start enjoying the benefits of a touch or touchless faucet in your home.
\r\n"}, { "custom_dt_modified":"2026-07-08T10:43:34Z", "custom_s_local_url":"/greater-syracuse/about-us/blog/the-ultimate-water-softener-buying-guide-20-thin/", "custom_s_opus_version":"2", "custom_s_heading":"The Ultimate Water-Softener Buying Guide: 20 Things You Should Know", "custom_s_local_dba":"greater-syracuse", "custom_dt_created":"2016-10-01T00:00:00Z", "custom_s_category":"plumbing", "custom_ss_category":["plumbing"], "custom_s_article_summary_Image_url":"", "custom_t_content_summary_Desc":"Home water-softener systems hold the potential to improve people’s quality of life. A good system can eliminate the daily ir", "custom_t_content_summary_Image_url_alt":"", "custom_t_heading":"The Ultimate Water-Softener Buying Guide: 20 Things You Should Know", "custom_t_content":"Home water-softener systems hold the potential to improve people’s quality of life. A good system can eliminate the daily irritations to the body and psyche you may experience as a result of hard water. Those include dry skin and hair, low-lathering soaps, stains, scum, bad smell, funny taste, and the long-run expenses of replacing costly hot-water-using appliances when they fail.
\nMost industry experts, professionals, and individuals agree that hard water is not much of an actual health concern. While the effects of hard water vary, they’re consistent in the quiet chaos they create each day and in the long term. Anybody responsible for their own water supply could benefit from a deeper understanding of water softeners and from conducting a water-softeners comparison.
\nMr. Rooter of Greater Syracuse wants to help not only with comprehensive sales and service but also with all the things you should know about water softeners.
\nHere are 20 questions to ask to be sure you know what you need to about water softeners:
\nFiguring out how to find the right water softener requires knowledge of water hardness, both in general and as it relates to your household. The main culprit causing hard water is calcium carbonate (CaCO3), a naturally occurring element throughout the world in chalk, marble, and limestone. While the three main forms of it share identical chemical properties, they have differing characteristics such as thickness, purity, and color. Calcium carbonate comprises about 4% of the Earth's crust.
\nIn addition to calcium, there are several types of non-carbonate minerals and metals that may exist in the ground. Water picks them up as it travels through a watershed to wells and municipal water supply:
\nThese as well as calcium carbonate can harden the water, particularly when it’s heated. As water temperature increases, the minerals in it crystallize and adhere to surfaces, often unseen until a problem pops up — and not usually an inexpensive one. The hardness is less of a health concern than it is a daily nuisance that generates big problems over time.
\nThe surest way to know what is in your water is to have it tested, and it only makes sense to know what it is you are treating before you buy a water softener to do the job. Home-improvement stores sell water-testing kits for about $25, and you can have a trusted plumbing professional such as Mr. Rooter take care of the testing.
\nYou can also always check with a city, county, university, or soil-and-water conservation professional to see if water-testing services are available. Often you can find an option that costs less and is more thorough than a store-bought test kit, plus it only requires you to bring or send in a water sample.
\nWater hardness is generally measured in grains per gallon (mpg), but some entities such as municipalities, may measure it in parts per million (ppm), milligrams per liter (mg), or liters (L). One grain of water hardness per gallon is equivalent to 1/7000th of a pound of rock. One gpg translates to 17.1 L, mg, or ppm.
\nThe range of water hardness varies from region to region and depends on what is in the soil. The U.S. Geological Survey studies well-water hardness, among other water-related characteristics, and assigns the hardness a rating based on milligrams per liter:
\nThe research data show that “hard water was prevalent in the east-central and western United States, reflecting the distribution of carbonate aquifers and aquifers with relatively high concentrations of dissolved solids.”
\nThe Onondaga County Water Authority calls the water in its area \"moderately hard\" and says the measurement of calcium carbonate in the region ranges from 100-190 ppm or six to 11 grains per gallon. Generally and universally, water with more than seven grains of hardness per gallon is considered to be hard.
\nA water test will also tell you levels of minerals or metals that are in the water, as well as detect such things as bacteria and other contaminants, chlorine, acidity, and more depending on the test and the entity. Some people might test only for hardness while others may want to know a full range or something specific in addition to or instead of the standard factors an agency might examine. Additionally, a comforting thought can be that there are water softeners for very hard water, as well as models and accessories that will resolve other issues, too.
\nAn analysis of the water can reveal valuable information for the purchase of a water softener as well as anytime you suspect the quality of water has changed for any reason. You can conduct a test anytime, like maybe if the water develops a smell or taste it didn’t have before or if conditions change in the watershed.
\nMillions of people opt for a water softener because it not only eliminates headaches around the house, but it also saves money by prolonging the life of your water-using appliances.
\nThe worst and costliest problem with calcium carbonate is how it accumulates over time and causes clogs, corrosion, and shorter appliance life. The more of it there is in the water, the worse the deposits will be and the faster they build up. Envision the water lines of your water-using appliance as small arteries in which the calcium carbonate, magnesium, iron, or other hardness accumulates and eventually impedes or blocks the water from passing.
\nOne example would be the washer-line hose that inside becomes laden with CaCO3 deposits and takes longer to fill or some part that becomes encrusted and stops working altogether. Water hardness and its resulting buildup will not benefit any utility or surface in your home. Using a water softener will generally double the life expectancy of your hot-water-using appliances.
\nIn another example, the Water Quality Research Council commissioned New Mexico State University to study the effects of hard water, and it found that when a water heater has scaling or buildup, it operates 22% to 30% less efficiently. Crusty, scaly deposits can build up over time in the water-supply lines and the heating elements, and when this vital appliance stops working, nobody enjoys the resulting lack of hot water.
\nOnce you start to think about how many things in the house use hot water, an effort to preserve them makes more sense:
\nMost of the things that use or handle water in the house are expensive, and for that reason, most people want to do everything they can to make them last as long as practically possible and get a good value for their money. Even one experience with a costly appliance replacement can cause you to answer with an emphatic yes if anybody asks: Are water softeners good?
\nAdditionally, hard water makes human skin and hair dry and itchy compared to soft water, so many people prefer to install a water softener to soothe their skin, especially since there is little they can do to stop other drying elements such as winter and its biting winds.
\nThe deposits from hard water will also create a film on your shower doors, glassware, and other items that come in contact with the hot water. You might hear these problems generally referred to as spotting when the dishes don’t look clean, or scaling when the harness accumulates inside pipes, lines, and pumps.
\nThe calcium and magnesium content in hard water reacts with the ingredients in various soaps and decreases the amount of lather produced by body soaps, shampoos, and laundry or dish detergents. This generally causes us to use more and more of the product, which wastes money and ends up placing more inorganic matter into the environment wherever the soap-heavy water drains. Besides that, the lack of lather can be downright annoying when you’d simply like to finish the cleaning job and get on with life.
\nHard water has also been known to give laundry a drab look. It’s tough on fabrics and accumulates in them, too, causing dull colors and a lack of brightness in whites. Garments often looked aged before a consumer can get their money’s worth out of the shirt, pair of pants, or other item. Many launderers find those qualities dissatisfactory and even expensive as they replace clothes more often for work, school, church, athletics, and more.
\nIron, manganese, and sulfur can give water a funky smell or taste, and though not generally harmful, some people cannot or would rather not tolerate it. Typically, the water from a municipal system has been chlorinated so the smell or test is not as apparent as at someone’s house with a well supply. A water softener and proper treatment or filtration can reduce and eliminate any foul odors or tastes in the water.
\nThe chalky-white residue of calcium carbonate or the telltale red-rusty color of iron deposits build up wherever the hard water is used including sinks, tubs, tile, fixtures, appliances, and other places you don’t want to see it. Many people lament how ugly it looks and how they replace such items as spigots or faucets only to have the residue return. A water softener prevents the filmy residue, buildup, and stains the hard water cause.
\nWater can contain one of four types of iron:
\nA water softener essentially treats the water and removes the hardness and minerals through an ion exchange process and typically the addition of some form of sodium or potassium. The softener normally has a mineral tank that contains resin beads and a brine tank that contains the salt, which may be together in one unit or in two separate tanks. You choose whether to soften all the water or just the hot supply.
\nThe resin beads create the ionic process that removes hard particles of calcium and lime scale. Water comes into the tank of the softener and flows to and over the beads, with an appropriate amount of contact with them to remove the unwanted elements and soften the water.
\nThe electrical charge of the resin beads opposes that of the incoming water, and that difference attracts the dissolved, hardening particles in the water and holds them among the resin beads so the appliance can release soft water. When the resin beads get full of the suspended particles, the waters softener automatically enters a regeneration cycle that involves bringing in water and flushing the hardened particles out of the resin beads using a salt-water (brine) mixture.
\nThey can only hold so much material, so the regeneration process, also called bringing, is necessary. The resin beads in a quality water softener should last for the life of the water softener. Under normal conditions, they do not need to be replaced. The salt supply will need to be replenished regularly, and experts recommend as clean a salt pellet (or other form) as can be used.
\nAs the water softener operates, hardness particles build up in the resin bed of the softener. When the buildup reaches a certain level, the softener automatically begins a process of mixing salt in the tank with several gallons of incoming water to clear the particles off the resin bed. It then flushes the tank and is ready to soften the water again.
\nRegeneration might take anywhere from a few to 30 minutes or more, and you can probably hear its operation if you’re nearby. Some people worry that regeneration harms or impedes their plumbing or septic system, but under normal circumstances, it does not affect the operation or life span of either, including drain-field soil percolation. The correct answer to the question of “Are water softeners bad for septic systems?” is no.
\nMost water softeners come with 10 feet of hose, which is what drains the water following regeneration. If you will need to drain farther away than 10 feet, you’ll need an additional drainage line that matches, but at the same time take care not to move the drain more than 30 feet away from the softener. While the amount of water used during regeneration varies widely among models, most average models will use about 50 gallons during each regeneration cycle.
\nRegeneration usually happens during the middle of the night, when no water will be in use, or you can sometimes set the time of day you want it to happen. If water does get used during regeneration, it comes straight from the well, and some families find that concerning. A dual-tank water softener addresses that concern since it basically has a reserve tank — one can dispense while the other regenerates, and vice versa. This works to make the soft-water supply continuous even if somebody is up during overnight hours.
\nNo. A water softener treats the water for hardness by removing the ions of the materials that cause hardness. Water should normally be free of harmful bacteria and chemicals before it reaches the water softener, but a comprehensive water test will reveal any causes for concern and put a consumer’s mind at ease. If a municipal water supply contains something of concern, you can contact the water authority about the results of your test.
\nIf a well or public supply shows trouble, you can consult a professional about options to filter, treat or do whatever is necessary to make the water safe. While the water quality in most wells remains fine throughout their practical lives, it never hurts to test it regularly and consult with the water authority in the area if something foul is found. They may know of events in the watershed that could affect water quality throughout the region — some type of spillage, for example. Consultation with others may also help determine if the issue is a temporary or permanent one.
\nTo some extent, yes, but to a full extent in every case, no. Depending on what is in your water, what makes it hard plus whatever else it naturally contains, it may have an undesirable taste or smell. If the use of a water softener alone does not remove one or both, you can use an activated-carbon filter in conjunction with the softener that should eliminate any funny odor and/or taste.
\nFor example, a water softener would remove some of the iron taste from water but would not help if there is hydrogen sulfide present. For that, you can easily remove the rotten egg smell with a manganese greensand filter.
\nIf there is an unexplainable taste or smell, take a close look at the water heater and house pipes. Water heaters can give a bad taste to water if they’re old and shedding iron flakes or if they contain a failing self-sacrificing rod, which can give the water a bad smell. In addition, old homes contain old pipes that are sometimes made of materials that do not meet current standards. It is advisable to seek professional plumbing help in any of those scenarios.
\nBesides knowing exactly what’s in the water, another important aspect of how to find the right water softener is conducting an analysis of capacity. It can bring undesired results to simply guess at how big of a water softener is needed — an undersized system will disappoint you, and an oversized system will waste materials and money.
\nOne recommended formula advises that you multiply the number of people in the household by how much water they use each day. Also relevant to water-softener selection is the flow rate of your household system, which is essentially a measure of the maximum rate at which it can dispense water.
\nYou can determine the household flow rate with a store-bought meter, or do a self-test at home: Place a one-gallon bucket underneath an outside spigot and time how long it takes for the bucket to fill. Divide the result by 60 (one minute) to see how many gallons per minute your flow generates. For example, if the bucket fills in 15 seconds, your flow rate is about four gallons per minute, because 60¸15=4.
\nWater softeners will be available in a range of capacities generally expressed as gallons per minute (also called flow rate per minute) and the maximum number of hardness grains it will remove per day. Generally, the higher the gallon-per-minute capacity, the bigger the tank is likely to be and the deeper the resin beads.
\nEquipped with the knowledge of what causes the water hardness, how much hardness your water contains and the amount of water being used, you will be able to select the right water softener for your situation.
\nStart with averages, and then adjust up or down if you’re certain the family uses less or more than average. Average water usage stands at 80 gallons per person, per day. So, a two-person household would use 160 gallons, a four-person home would use 320 gallons, and so on. You can calculate with decent accuracy how many grains of hardness per day you will need to remove once you’ve had the water tested and know your family’s per-day usage.
\nFor a hypothetical example, say you have a four-person household using an average amount of water, of 320 gallons. Your water test reveals that your water contains nine grains of hardness per gallon. So, 320 x 9 = 2,880 grains of hardness per day your water softener should be able to remove. If your household realistically uses more or less water than average or your water test reveals a higher or lower number, the factors of the equation can be adjusted.
\nIf the capacity of a water softener is expressed in gallons per minute it can soften, you can use the basics of how much water your family uses along with the level of hardness in your water to calculate how many grains you need to be removed per gallon, per minute.
\nWater softeners come in an array of sizes, types, capacities, colors, and brands, and the most popular type is the salt-based, whole-house, ion/cation exchange unit. Some softeners are specialized to focus on certain issues, while others may be standard and generalized. To help you decide which water softener to buy, it would be ideal to have at least a little understanding about the technology they have inside them.
\nIn particular, the regeneration frequency is probably more important than any other feature. Examine how often the cycle happens and how much water and salt it uses during each one. You may be tempted to jump on the cheapest model, but you might find that less regeneration and more efficient operation pays off over time as it needs less salt and water.
\nBesides water type and flow rate to determine water-softener needs, a local professional is always a huge help since they know what models and brands demonstrate good success in a specific region. To a certain extent, a water-softening-treatment-filtration system can and needs to be customized to the characteristics of your water and family. For example, a family with two people who have calcium but not minerals or metals in their water would probably use a different setup than would a family of six with water that contains calcium carbonate and a few types of hardening minerals.
\nThe water-softener controls also make a difference in costs over time and impact operation. Some have a timer control that prompts regeneration at a preset time of day on the basis of average daily usage. This method works fine until you end up using more water than average on a given day or week, say if you have houseguests. In addition, this type of control automatically uses X amount of salt to regenerate according to time and not necessity.
\nOther softeners offer the more advanced demand-initiated regeneration (DIR), which is recommended by the Environmental Protection Agency. This type of control senses when the resin needs to be recharged and only regenerates when needed. The sensor mechanism is usually an electronic component or a usage meter that measures and calculates how much water and salt are being used.
\nNot only does this technology reduce the amount of water and salt the softener uses, but it also decreases the number of times you have to fill it and eliminates any concerns about above-average usage days. Several types of water softeners also offer filtering options in addition to treatment, such as reverse osmosis to remove salt from drinking water. Most softeners run on electricity, need a 110-volt outlet and use about as much power as a digital alarm clock, though some do run on batteries.
\nThe quantity of salt used depends on a few factors, but it’s mainly the capacity of the softener and how many resin beads there are to be treated, as well as how often it regenerates. For example, the softener might have 3/4, 1, or 1.5 feet of resin beads and then need corresponding amounts of salt for regeneration, typically six to 12 pounds per cycle for the average residential system.
\nIt is difficult to pinpoint an exact number for salt usage, but someone with hard well water can probably expect to use 80-120 pounds of salt per month. It typically comes in 40-pound bags of pellets and crystals.
\nTo a certain extent, your needs and budget may drive your water-softener selection, but each will have a number of distinguishing characteristics. One of the things that will gain your confidence in a certain brand is NSF certification. NSF is a non-profit organization that since 1944 has conducted independent research and has made resources available to protect public health and safety. NSF examines many types of consumer products and certifies only those that meet a strict standard.
\nThe Water Quality Association, a trusted trade organization in the industry, certifies equipment, so you can seek the WQA Gold Seal as another indicator of quality. Neither the NSFs nor the WQA’s certification is a guarantee of performance, but their marks do mean that softeners have passed industry standards tests and that the manufacturer’s claims have been substantiated.
\nIt makes life easier to have a water-softener model that can gauge the salt level on its own, which helps you achieve ideal soft water by maintaining the right levels of sodium. Some models include various means to remind you when it’s time to add salt, which is nice since that is one of the essential components for softening hard water.
\nThe frequency of salt refills depends largely on the model of water softener you buy, its capacity, the technology inside it, and how often it regenerates, as well as how much water your household uses. Naturally, a household using more gallons of water will go through salt faster than one using fewer gallons.
\nThe salt-adding intervals vary from household to household and overall, may range anywhere from once a week to every few months. Besides the variable of households, many other things affect how much salt a softener will use including and especially the technology inside it, as well as how it operates and its age. For example, some softeners take all the salt into the water at once while others may suspend it out of the water and release it as necessary like those with DIR control.
\nYes, and it pays to know more about them before purchase since the sometimes-subtle differences among them can be confusing. Also, some vendors’ claims of salt-free operation require a discerning eye and knowledge of how those choices work. There are a few options consumers may see advertised as “salt-free” methods for treating hard water:
\nEither option is an ideal solution for households with orders for ultra-low salt intake as well as anyone who wants to eliminate the expense of salt and avoid the task of replenishing the supply regularly. Generally speaking, most professionals agree that salt-using models soften more effectively than ones that use no salt. People concerned about salt intake can also use a traditional softener along with a reverse-osmosis filter to remove the salt from drinking water.
\nMany people mistakenly call or think of this option as “softening” the water when a conditioner does not actually soften but does remove damaging calcium carbonate from the water via various means and without salt. Conditioning may be a good option for folks on a zero-potassium diet or who want to avoid using water for the regeneration process.
\nAgain though, a water conditioner generally prevents the calcium from building up but usually does not soften the water. With a water conditioner, you are likely to still see residue on dishes, have itchy skin, and be annoyed with soaps that don’t produce much lather. All that said, there is new technology emerging all the time, but explore with caution claims of a “softening” conditioner.
\nBesides adding salt when needed, hopefully, you won’t need to have too much more technical information beyond what you learn for and after purchase. One important rule of water softeners is to never let them run out of salt because that is like not having a softener at all and can potentially damage the softener.
\nA typical water softener lasts about 15 years and may cost anywhere from $400-$2,500 or more, depending on specialty functions. There are options for leasing a softener that would only be advantageous if you either need one for the short term or simply don’t want to own or fuss with a water-softening system.
\nTechnically yes, but professional help is advised when it comes to any important water-using appliance and especially those involving pressure. Should you venture to do it yourself, you’ll need some specific tools and tips:
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