Is It Safe to Consume Softened Water?
Can you drink softened water? Is it safe? People can face problems if the quality of drinking water is not good. Inappropriately treated water can cause diseases.
It is safe to use softened water, and the choice to drink it depends on the individual’s likeness to the taste. Studies indicate no official verdict stating whether or not drinking softened water is safe or a problem.
What is Water Softener?
A water softener is a device that removes minerals like calcium and magnesium from hard water. Water softeners work by using a process called ion exchange, where the hard water is passed through resin beads that attract and remove the mineral ions. The softened water is then released into the home’s plumbing system.
Water softeners reduce magnesium and calcium in the water and have a lot of other benefits, making it soft through a process referred to as ion exchange. Sodium is mainly used in the water-softening process. The reason is that the resin that catches the mineral that is not wanted is washed by sodium. During the ion exchange, there is a minimal amount of interaction between calcium and magnesium. The amount of salt in the softened water depends mainly on the source of the water’s geographical location. Water softeners ensure that salts’ sodium level does not exceed the recommended level of 200mg/liter. Some of the softeners that can be used in softening water are sodium (Na), hydrogen chloride (HCl), and Sodium hydroxide(NaOH).
Is Water Treated by a Softener Safe to Drink?
The short answer is yes, water treated by a softener is safe to drink. The process of water softening does not introduce any harmful chemicals or substances into the water, nor does it remove any of the minerals that are essential to our health. In fact, softened water may even be beneficial to some people with certain health conditions, as it can reduce the amount of minerals they consume.
Potential health risks of drinking softened water
While drinking softened water is generally considered safe, there are some potential health risks that should be taken into consideration. One of the main concerns is the increased level of sodium in softened water. During the ion exchange process, sodium ions are released from the resin beads into the water, which can increase the level of sodium in the water. For most people, this is not a concern, as the amount of sodium added to the water is relatively small. However, for people with high blood pressure or other health conditions that require a low-sodium diet, drinking softened water may not be recommended.
Another potential health risk of drinking softened water is the decreased level of calcium and magnesium. While these minerals are not essential to our health, they do play an important role in maintaining healthy bones and teeth. Some studies have suggested that drinking water with low levels of calcium and magnesium may increase the risk of certain health conditions, like osteoporosis.
Is It Safe to Drink Softened Water When Pregnant?
Pregnant women may wonder if it is safe to drink softened water, especially if they are concerned about the potential health risks. The good news is that drinking softened water is generally considered safe for pregnant women. However, as with any dietary change, it is important to consult with a healthcare provider to ensure that the dietary changes are safe for both the mother and the baby.
Pros and Cons of Water Softener
Now that we have explored the safety of drinking softened water, let’s take a look at some of the pros and cons.
Pros:
- Reduced mineral buildup in pipes and appliances
- Soap and detergent work more effectively
- Clothes and dishes are cleaner and last longer
- Reduced use of cleaning products
- Extended lifespan of water-using appliances
Cons:
- Increased level of sodium in water
- Decreased level of calcium and magnesium
- Cost of installation and maintenance
- Wastewater created during the regeneration process
How to test the safety of your water
If you are concerned about the safety of your drinking water, there are several ways to test the water. One option is to purchase a home water testing kit, which can be found at most hardware stores or online. These kits typically test for things like pH, hardness, and the presence of certain contaminants.
Another option is to have your water tested by a professional. Many local or state health departments offer water testing services, as do private laboratories. These tests can provide a more comprehensive analysis of the water and can detect the presence of contaminants that may not be detected by a home testing kit.
Conclusion
Minerals are vital elements found in drinking water. From many studies, there is sufficient evidence that confirms that a certain minimum level of magnesium and calcium is required. Their deficiency has been found to have many health impacts like diseases and the likelihood of aggression from bacteria and toxic elements.
If you need a new water softener in Toronto and the GTA region feel free to call us at 437-777-4555.
