A water conditioner is a popular alternative to a water softener for customers who are looking to reduce or prevent limescale build-up. Water conditioning is a process that involves altering the minerals or contents of your water rather than removing anything, rendering them inactive or unable to form a hard limescale. On the other hand water softeners use an intelligent process called ion exchange to completely remove hardness molecules from your water, providing a host of additional benefits such as softer skin, hair and clothes.
Where Is Water Conditioning Used?
Water conditioners play a common role in everyday limescale reduction processes and are a popular choice for plumbers, as they are low cost, low maintenance and easy to install. They are generally used where scale prevention is the primary desire, as unlike a water softener they do not actually change the molecular make-up of your water from hard to soft.
If you are looking for a solution for scale prevention (such as within your heating system or appliances) then a water conditioner may be the right purchase for you. However, if you are looking for the additional benefits of soft water like eczema relief, softer laundry, reduction of existing scale build-up and improved lather from detergents, then a water softener would be a better choice.
Benefits of water conditioners:
- Little to no waste water to operate
- Does not need a power supply
- Generally smaller and easier to install
- Water retains minerals like calcium and magnesium
Read About The Benefits Of Water Softening →
Drawbacks of water conditioners:
- Unable to test difference in water quality
- May still experience limescale deposits in hard water areas
- Little scientific data to back up their effectiveness
- Multiple technologies which give varying results
Explore The Different Types Of Water Softeners →
Water Conditioners Versus Water Softeners
There are a few key differences between water conditioners and water softeners. Water conditioners are a great option for customers looking solely for scale control, offering a more cost-effective and easier-to-maintain solution than a water softener. However, it is important to note that this treated water is still regarded as ‘hard water’ and in areas with a hardness level of 250ppm or above, you will still notice limescale build up – albeit at a reduced rate.
| Water Conditioners | Water Softeners | |
|---|---|---|
| Initial Cost | £50 – £500+ | £400 – £1000+ |
| Maintenance | Little to None | Salt top ups |
| Scale Control | Yes | Yes |
| Hardness Removal | No | Yes |
| Power Supply | No | Mains / Non-Electric |
| Approx. Lifespan | 1-3 Years | Up to 15+ years |
| Ease Of Install | Easy | Moderate |
Where Water Conditioning Might Be Suitable
Water conditioners are generally cheaper and easier to install than water softeners. This is because they are a much simpler technology, with no valves or electricity required to operate. Water conditioners usually sit in line with your pipework, with no requirement for a drain line. Water conditioners can also be installed to protect a single appliance, such as upfront of a washing machine or to protect an expensive coffee machine. They are commonly used within the food-service market in commercial applications to reduce limescale build up at the point of use, which is where they excel.
Water Conditioners Do Not Require Electricity Or Maintenance To Run So Are An Effective ‘Fit And Forget’ Solution To Reduce Limescale Build Up
Where Water Softening Might Be Suitable
Water softeners are much more effective at tackling limescale build-up within a property or appliance. This is because they not only completely remove the hardness molecules from your water, but the soft water can flush out existing scale deposits from your pipework and from within appliances. Over time they are also able to save you money by reducing energy costs through improved heating efficiency and by greatly improving the lather from soaps and detergents.
Studies Show The Average 4 Person Household Could Save Up To £200 A Year By Installing A Water Softener If They Live In A Hard Water Area
Choosing A Water Conditioner Or Water Softener
Water conditioners and water softeners both come in a variety of sizes to suit customers looking for either whole-house scale control, or single appliance protection. We’re sure you’ll find the perfect option with our product range.
If you are unsure which product is suitable for you or need some help comparing please do not hesitate to give us a call on 01622 933 853 or start a live chat.