How Does a Water Softener Work?

Water softening by definition is removing calcium Ca2 and Magnesium Mg2 from the water through a process called ion exchange. The process of ion-exchange uses a polymer resin bed which gives off a sodium or potassium particle in exchange for hardness minerals.

This process removes water hardness from the water eliminating scale build up, protecting appliances, water heaters, plumbing fixtures, improving the effectiveness of soaps and detergents.

Water softeners operate typically by two common methods. A timered water conditioner regenerates based on a set number of days similar to an irrigation timer. A more effective and efficient Demand Initiated Regeneration (DIR) water softener regenerates according to actual water usage saving water and reducing salt/potassium usage by as much as 50%.

Water Tec has an advanced Demand Initiated Regenerated (DIR) system that is a “Smart DIR” system that uses advanced electronic controls to further enhance efficiency.

The Water Tec Ultra High Efficiency (WTUHE) controls use history usage data, proportional cycling, and up-flow cycling to further increase standard DIR efficiencies by 70%-80% over timered water conditioners.