If you already have a water softener, then we don’t have to tell you about all the benefits. You already know how much better soft water is on your skin, your hair, and your home. You also may have noticed that you actually save money by having a water softener!
If you have had a softener for a while, however, you may be wondering when it will need to be replaced. A good soft water system should last 10 to 15 years. Here are a few signs to look for that may indicate it’s time to replace your water softener.
Signs You Need to Replace Your Water Softener
Water Taste- If you start to notice that your water tastes different, it may indicate that your water softener isn’t filtering out minerals as it should.
Hard Water Spots- Water spots are a sign that you have hard water. Getting rid of scale buildup is one of the benefits of having a water softener. So, if you notice spots on your shower doors or drinking glasses after they have been dried, your water softener is not up for the job.
Laundry- You may remember how hard water made your clothes feel … stiff and dull. You may have thought it was your detergent, but your water softener took care of that! So, if your clothes start to feel stiff and dull again, it could be that it’s time to replace your water softener.
Soap– Pay attention to how your soap lathers. If it isn’t lathering as quickly or if the water feels less soft on your skin, this is an indicator of hard water.
Salt Use-Water softeners use salt or potassium during the softening process. If you notice your softener stops using salt, that is a clear indication that your unit is not working. If your system uses more salt, it may be a good idea to replace your water softener with a more efficient model.
Why You Should Upgrade Your Water Softener
So, maybe you have noticed some of the signs that you need to replace your water softener. If you need another reason to upgrade, we have several!
Newer water softeners have higher efficiency ratings, helping you save water.
The latest water softener models also save you money. The more efficient water softeners use less energy, less water, and you will use less soaps, shampoo, laundry detergent and more!
Newer water softeners will also have better quality.
If it’s time to upgrade and you are looking for a water softener that will be more efficient, effective, and a better overall investment, then you’ve come to the right place. Pacific Coast Water Systems of Fullerton offers a variety of water softener options that we can discuss once we evaluate your home’s water quality and household water demands. You’ll always get more than what you pay for with our water treatment products! When you find yourself face-to-face with water softener maintenance, installation or emergency repairs, you can call us and our technicians will be there to help! Simply contact us today!
August is National Water Quality Month. So, we at Pacific Coast Water Systems of Fullerton think it is a great time to go over what can contaminate our water and how to protect ourselves from contaminants. Not everyone in the world has fresh, clean, quality water piped right to their house. In fact, not all water piped into your house can be considered quality!
Water Contamination
All water contains contaminants, natural or artificial. The EPA estimated there are over 60,000 chemicals being used within the USA that could find their way into our water. But, only 91 contaminants are regulated. So, while tap water is said to be safe to drink, it may not be the quality water that is best for your home and family. Have you read your entire water quality report?
Nitrates- Nitrates are found in fertilizers, manure and waste from septic tanks. It is the most common type of contaminant that finds its way into our fresh water. Nitrates are regulated by your municipality before it enters your home. If you have well water, it should be tested for nitrates every other year. It can be especially dangerous for infants and young children.
Microorganisms, bacteria, and viruses- All water has some degree of bacteria. Most are harmless, but some can cause quite a lot of health issues! City water is treated with chlorine intended to kill microorganisms, bacteria and viruses.
Aluminum– Aluminum is the third most common element in the earth’s soil, so it easily finds its way into our water. Dementia has been linked to high traces of aluminum in drinking water.
Fluoride– Fluoride is a natural mineral added to our water, but recent studies have shown it may be doing more harm than good. High levels of fluoride may actually cause weakening in the skeletal system.
Arsenic– Arsenic is a natural metallic substance that can find its way into your drinking water. Studies have shown that the compound can produce a variety of health effects.
What You Can Do to Improve Water Quality
While these top contaminants are regulated by your water municipality, it does not hurt to have your water tested for these and other contaminants. Pacific Coast Water Systems of Fullerton can test your water and work with you to determine which of our eco-friendly and innovative drinking water products is right for you. Reverse Osmosis drinking water systems are extremely effective at removing contaminants at the tap.
Whether you’re looking for a Reverse Osmosis system or even a water softener, we can guarantee that our products will reduce common water contaminants and improve the quality of your water! So, stop worrying about your water quality and contact us today!
Investing in a water softener for your home is an excellent choice. It makes chores easier, gives you more free time, and saves on energy. Plus, you’ll see quite impressive financial savings over time.
But, none of these benefits will happen if your home water softener isn’t working properly and efficiently. Without preventative maintenance and routine inspections, your system will lack some of the effectiveness you had hoped for in the first place.
What are your favorite soft water benefits?
That’s a tough question – we know, because we love them all, too!
From no more spots and stains on glassware, to fewer clogs and repairs for water-using appliances, soft water eases your everyday needs. Most water professionals – including US – will offer preventative maintenance and routine servicing of your water softening system. This will help protect your investment and maintain better water quality.
Do I need preventative maintenance with a new water softener?
Yes, you do! Even new water softeners can benefit from routine maintenance. Things like power outages and daylight savings time can affect the regeneration process of your unit. There could also be issues with other water-using appliances in your home like well pumps or water heaters, and these can also impact the functionality of your home water softener.
I have a well. Does this apply to me?
Definitely. For private well owners, water softener performance is essential for water quality. But, this means that you also need a healthy well. Issues with your well can create problems for your softener. This can lead to the need for repair or replacement for BOTH the pressure tank (or other part) and the water softener itself. Either one could be costly.
Regular inspections and maintenance on ALL water treatment products and equipment is vital. Neglected units of all kinds can lead to big bills and poor water quality. For many, the issue is that they are out of sight, so out of mind. And, they’re only given attention when a problem actually occurs and repairs are necessary.
What do preventative maintenance plans or services look like?
They vary, of course, and ours can be customized to your specific water needs and product. In general, however, you should look for things like:
Water tests to see if your water softener is working properly
Proper salt delivery and schedule
Review your current water conditions
Check common wear and tear parts like pistons, injectors, screens and seals
Clean the equipment
Change filters and/or pre-filters
Clean the brine tank
And more!
If you could use some peace of mind that your home water softener is working properly and efficiently, give us a call and schedule an appointment. Preventative maintenance is so important – we’re happy to help!
Consider yourself lucky if you have never experienced smelly water. Water is essential to everyday life and a foul odor to our tap water can be alarming. We can help you identify common water smells and offer solutions!
Determine the Source of the Odor
First, you need to try to determine where the water smell is coming from. Does the odor occur in all your faucets or just one? If it’s just one, the odor is being caused by something in the fixture.
Does the odor go away after the water runs for a few minutes? If so, the odor is likely caused by something in your plumbing system, not the water source itself.
Common Water Smells
There are several water smells, and we will look at the most common odors and how to test your water.
Sewage/Rotten Egg Smell- A rotten egg or sewage smell in your water is likely caused by either bacteria growing in your drain or water heater, or sulfur in your water supply.
Solution- Check your water by filling a glass from your tap and let it sit for a few minutes. If the problem is bacteria in the drain, the water should not have an odor. Disinfect the drain by pouring half a cup of baking soda down the drain and then pour half a cup of vinegar. Wait 15 minutes and then pour in hot tap water. You can also turn up the temperature in your water heater for 24 hours and run frequently through your faucets to kill any bacteria in your plumbing.
Musty Smell- If your water has a musty, almost moldy smell, it could be from erosion in your water pipes. Erosion can be caused by hard water.
Solution- The best solution is to install a water softener. Water softener systems remove hard minerals like magnesium and calcium that are found in water.
Bleach Smell- High levels of chlorine in your drinking water is usually not harmful, but nobody wants the water they drink to smell like a swimming pool. Public water suppliers chlorinate water to prevent bacteria growth.
Solution- You may be able to get rid of the chlorine smell by running the water faucet for a few minutes. We also offer a Reverse Osmosis System which eliminates harmful contaminants and provides great tasting (and smelling) drinking water!
Metal Smell- The most common reason for metallic water smells is older metal pipes slowly deteriorating into your water. Generally, traces of metal are not harmful. But there is a possibility of lead pipes in homes built before 1986.
Solution- You can request a water test from your water treatment center if you suspect lead. Lead is harmful and should be taken care of immediately. If no lead is present, we suggest a Reverse Osmosis water filtration system for great tasting and smelling water.
Say Goodbye to Water Smells and Hello to High Quality Water
Whatever the source of your water smell may be, Pacific Coast Water Systems of Fullerton can help! We can test your water and work with you to determine which of our eco-friendly and innovative drinking water products is right for you.
So, stop worrying about your water and contact us! Whether you’re looking for a Reverse Osmosis system or a water softener, we can guarantee that our products will reduce common water contaminants and improve the quality of your water.
Identifying and knowing how to avoid the most common drinking water contaminants in your tap water is important as a homeowner. We have worked with thousands of people to help them improve their drinking water quality and protect their family from consuming contaminants in the water that they have or potentially could face down the road.
Your drinking water is of the utmost importance. But, when was the last time you sat down and read your entire water quality report? The last time you truly educated yourself and your family on the water in your home and in your area? Do you have concerns?
The point of this blog is not to create any panic. Instead, we want to create awareness of drinking water quality and help educate homeowners on common water contaminants that could pose a risk. Awareness ignites change and change in this case is for the better. High quality drinking water is always better than the alternatives and outcomes.
What are we hearing in the news?
Homeowners right now may hear about water contaminants like arsenic, nitrates, lead, PFAs, fluoride and even pharmaceuticals in public drinking water, as well as nitrates and bacteria in private wells. We know that state and federal laws like the Safe Drinking Water Act are meant to help protect our drinking water. But, there are still situations where contaminants show up. Laws do not guarantee that standards are followed or enforced, or that public water treatment never fails.
How are contaminants categorized?
Drinking water contaminants are often broken down by the following categories: primary, secondary and emerging.
Primary water contaminants include (but are not limited to):
Microorganisms like coliform bacteria (i.e. E.coli), cryptosporidium, giardia, legionella, and enteric viruses which can be treated with chlorination and UV treatment.
Inorganic compounds like arsenic, chromium, copper, chlorine, chloramine, fluoride, lead, mercury, nitrates, and nitrites, treated well with a reverse osmosis drinking water system. It is important to point out that inorganic compounds which could pose a health risk can be difficult to identify – they are often colorless, odorless and tasteless. Homes with private wells MUST have their water tested annually. And, residents on a public system should check their water quality report annually as well.
Organic compounds like agricultural chemicals, pesticides, and industrial chemicals which are commonly treated with activated carbon and reverse osmosis.
Secondary water contaminants include (but are not limited to):
Aluminum, iron, manganese, sulfur, calcium, magnesium – treated with water softeners and other water treatment systems right in your home.
Emerging water contaminants include (but are not limited to):
Manganese, pharmaceuticals, personal care products, PFAs and PFOAs
What do we do for now?
In the United States, we are fortunate to have decent drinking water in many areas. However, many could also use some improvement. Many of the drinking water contaminants listed above do not occur all at once or maybe even ever. But, they do pose potential health risks. Some can cause widespread and serious illnesses. Others can cause cancer or other serious illness with prolonged exposure.
Whether your contaminants are happening due to failed water treatment, or from human and animal waste into groundwater sources, increasing water treatment right in your home can help eliminate the health and quality risks right away. Experts say that microorganisms and chemical compounds in the environment can and will for the immediate future, contaminate drinking water supplies. Infants, children, the elderly, and immune-compromised people are particularly susceptible to serious health effects from contaminants in drinking water.
Contact one of our experts to discuss your concerns, your goals and your water needs. Whether you’re looking for a RO system or even a water softener, we can guarantee that our products will reduce the risk (or the presence) of common water contaminants and improve the overall quality of your drinking water. We can test your water and work WITH you to determine which of our eco-friendly and innovative drinking water products is right for you. Invest in your own drinking water now, before any other unknown exposure occurs or before any public health issue arises.
National Groundwater Awareness Week 2021 is from March 7-13 and is all about being a voice for groundwater. Communities around the nation need to speak up for this precious resource. There is no better time than today to learn and share the important role that groundwater plays in our lives! This year, it is the hope of advocates to share tips for groundwater safety, groundwater protection and increasing access across the country.
Advocacy Starts with Educating People
How exactly can we educate the people in our lives about groundwater and the role it plays? How do we teach others about the importance of proper groundwater management? And, how can we remind our neighbors that it is critical to test the water frequently in private water systems and wells? It starts with YOU!
When you learn about the role of groundwater, its significance and the dangers and risks of it disappearing, you can share what you know with others and be a role model in your daily habits. You can be a voice for groundwater itself and that is the theme of National Groundwater Awareness Week 2021!
The Roles of Groundwater in Our Daily Lives
The National Groundwater Association has compiled some great facts and figures that make it easier to picture just how important groundwater is in our daily lives. Here are some that may surprise you:
In addition, the EPA points out that ten percent of homes have leaks that waste 90 gallons or more per day … that’s a lot of water wasted down the drain!
The U.S. Geological Survey estimates that the U.S. uses 82.3 billion gallons per day of fresh groundwater. And, it’s used for lots of different purposes, like irrigation, agricultural operations, manufacturing, mining, thermoelectric power, and more.
Private Wells and Water Testing
Regular water testing for those residents with private wells is so important. A properly functioning and well-maintained household-supply well will provide you with many years of quality service. When you have your well routinely inspected and tested, you will ensure that it is operating as it should. This can also prolong its life and protect your health by discovering any potential water quality problems that could present a health risk.
Habits and Routines to Protect Our Groundwater – Everyone Can Do Something!
Here are some helpful tips from the National Groundwater Association that describe things we ALL can do to help preserve groundwater Every bit counts!
Use native plants when you landscape that won’t need much water or fertilizer.
Use fewer chemicals in your home and yard. When you do, proper disposal is a must.
Manage waste properly when it comes to toxic substances.
Turn off the water when brushing or shaving.
Repair any leaks or drips inside your home and outside fixtures.
Water your lawn during the coolest times of day.
Take quicker showers. Have a household competition to see who can shower quickest!
Reduce, Reuse, Recycle!
Use natural alternatives to cleaning products.
Be a role model, get informed, share, advocate and keep promoting these habits!
If you have any questions or concerns about water quality or need assistance with water testing, call our water treatment professionals today. We can work together to promote safe, clean drinking water and better habits to preserve our groundwater!
Homes across the country have hard water, making residential water softeners one of the more popular investments because they can save you a lot of time, money and energy.
But, with so many brands and types of water softeners on the market, how will you ever decide? What is the best one for your home? Should you choose availability over research? Should you choose low cost over high efficiency? Are they all going to remove the same amount of hard water minerals? Are big box store water softeners just as good as those from a water treatment company?
These are all fair questions. But, we think doing some research (okay, we did some for you) will help sway your decision!
What is a water softener?
A water softener is a system that uses an ion exchange process to remove hard minerals like magnesium and calcium that are found in water. This type of water treatment process can be used in both residential and industrial or commercial settings.
Advantages of Big Box Store Water Softeners
While there are some advantages to buying a water softener from a big box store near you or online, there is certainly the need to weigh the pros and cons. The benefits of buying from a professional water treatment company could outweigh the benefits of a big box store, but we wanted to list some of them nonetheless.
Easy access to the products in the store or online.
You can get the salt delivered or at the same store.
You may find some sales on the products or for a one-time price.
DIY installation savings if you are up for the task.
Disadvantages of Big Box Store Water Softeners
Okay, we also wanted to share some of the disadvantages of buying from one of your local stores. Many consumers and consumer experts have thought about why this may not be the way to go and some of their advice and experiences are as follows:
You get what you pay for. Finding a low price system may give you low quality results. Meant to be low-priced in a mass market, big box store water softeners are basic, inefficient at times, non-customizable and you may not get the quality, longevity, functionality, or service and maintenance that you had hoped for.
Low-quality materials and parts. The softener resin or system itself may not be made well, or last.
You made a financial investment and you want the most out of it. However, this is not always the case in this situation as it may not be a professional-grade softener. You may get 5+ years from a box store water softener but 15-20+ with a professional-grade one.
Not the right size, fit or functionality for your specific household demands, especially when you DIY install it or maintain it. If a professional does not install it or explain it, it could make for a frustrating experience.
Service not included.
Your water won’t be tested by a professional prior to making a purchase, so you may not know what you even need.
Your Next Steps
If you want to choose a water softener that will be more efficient, effective and a better overall investment, then you’ve come to the right place. We offer a variety of options that we can discuss once we evaluate your home’s water quality and household water demands. Also, our products are available for lease or purchase.
You’ll always get more than what you pay for with our products! When you find yourself face-to-face with water softener maintenance, installation or emergency repairs, you can call us and our technicians will be there to help. You’ll have the quality, efficiency and the support you need – professional-grade water softening systems with professional support.
Our products are innovative and on the cutting edge of technology. We are committed to our customers and our products and we cannot wait to share them with you, too!
Most consumers have heard of water treatment, reverse osmosis or water softeners, but not many people are familiar with deionized water. Just what exactly are the benefits? Who should consider it? How does it work? These questions are asked by many of our existing and potential clients, so we wanted to share some information with you all.
What is deionized water?
Without getting too scientific to the point that we are not understood by those without water expertise, deionized water is water that has had all ions removed. (This does not include oxygen and hydrogen – when they form a covalent bond to make water, they are no longer completely ionized.) Many businesses can really benefit from this type of water.
Why deionized water delivery for businesses?
When you invest in industrial or commercial DI systems, you are able to purify the water by removing the mineral ions and replacing them with hydrogen ions (which is additional water). There are several advantages, including improved performance.
It is often compared to commercial water softening, but is a more thorough solution in many cases. Deionization strips out the unwanted minerals and therefore improves the heat-carrying ability of the water. It also prevents sodium buildup and scale, extending the life of commercial water-using applications.
What types of businesses typically benefit from deionized water?
We have a variety of clients that use our specialized (and customized) systems because high purity water is necessary for their businesses to perform optimally. We even offer fast and efficient deionized water delivery because we know how important this service is to your business and how important your business is to your clients. Our clients have these types of businesses, among others:
Plating processes
Water-based coolants
Printers
Lab analysis
Circuit board manufacturing
Car washes
Window washers
Aerospace component manufacturing
Film processing
What kinds of deionized water technologies are available?
We offer a selection – something we are very proud of. From mixed bed DI tank service or dual bed DI tank service to multiple bed and UV sterilization units, we have a wide variety of available technologies that can work individually or be combined. This allows us to customize just what our clients need.
If high purity water is needed at your business, then deionized water delivery may be the thing that can help you to level up and protect your systems and existing components. Fewer repairs, service interruptions or replacements leads to financial savings down the road. Are you ready to look into deionized water delivery? Our experts are ready to help – simply contact us today!
Is your office currently lacking a commercial water cooler for both employees and customers? Providing clean drinking water fresh from the cooler can have some major benefits – from health and wellness to increases in productivity throughout the day. Your work environment just got a whole lot better with a water cooler – everyone will love it!
When we think of office must-haves, we usually think about a coffee maker, a picnic table, good parking spots, a microwave or maybe even a break room. These are cool and all, but we didn’t hear you mention a water cooler and we think more businesses should. Bottled water leads to a lot of toxic plastic waste and can be costly. Not our bottleless water coolers!
Commercial Water Cooler Benefits You and Your Employees Will Love
Health and Wellness
Commercial water coolers offer on demand and unlimited fresh water for everyone when they need it. They also offer a healthier choice for your employees. The option of great-tasting, pure water at their fingertips may be exactly what they want instead of bringing in sugary soft drinks or calorie-rich juices. Another benefit is that our coolers protect against contaminants. Some drinking water contaminants may be harmful if consumed at high levels. This is one of the most important reasons to install a water cooler. Both tap and bottled water have numerous organic and inorganic contaminants in them.
Money Saving
Bottleless water coolers are cost-effective and efficient compared to buying dozens of bottles of water or a bottled water delivery service. You will actually save up to 50% compared to bottled water! It is a great way to get clean, filtered drinking water into the office. Our systems are also hassle-free for you. No lugging or exchanging big, heavy water bottles, and no storing them in the office. You will not have to wait for delivery if you run out, either.
Eco-friendly Products
Our systems have a smaller footprint and are an eco-friendly and efficient investment you’ll be proud of. We take care of the filter changes for you and using our coolers means reducing plastic bottles in landfills.
Employee Productivity
Studies show that employees who stay well-hydrated have better cognitive skills and mental performance throughout their shift. They will also be less fatigued, helping to maintain a better overall wellness, attitude and work ethic. Just a 1% drop in hydration could lead to a 12% drop in productivity!
A Final Word About Commercial Water Coolers
Commercial water coolers are the best solution out there for providing your office with clean, safe drinking water. They’re cost-effective, sure, but even more importantly, they are a special touch that your employees and customers will truly appreciate. It shows you care about them and there is no greater gift. To learn more about our water coolers and other water treatment systems, contact our water quality specialists who will help schedule a water test or decide which product is right for your office.
If you’re building a new home, congratulations! This is a very exciting endeavor filled with important decisions, personalized details, and designs for the future of your family’s safe place.
From planning the layout to selecting those perfect design elements, there are plenty of decisions to make. Now is the perfect time to also consider the quality of your drinking water as you begin to select some of the infrastructure and technical systems details.
As you find some of these complex decisions coming up, we are happy to help you choose a drinking water system that meets the needs and demands of your family and new home.
New Home Water Quality Considerations
We can help test your water to see just what you may need. Do you want to protect your home from unwanted drinking water contaminants? Does this area have hard water so you’re looking to install a home water softener or utilize soft water delivery service?
When it comes to your water quality, these types of decisions are where you need to start, and we can help you from there. Your home is your investment and adding a water treatment system can help add equity and make your new home even more enjoyable.
Common Water Issues You May Face In Your New Home
Why is it important to consider your water quality now? Installing a home water treatment system can help you prevent water problems now and down the road. Here are some common water issues many homeowners face:
Hard water
Arsenic, nitrates or other harmful contaminants
Iron stains
Acidic water
Bacteria or viruses
Pesticides
What Type of Water Source Do You Have?
Another important consideration when it comes to water quality is finding out where your drinking water will come from. Will you have municipal water or a private well? With pros and cons to both, how you manage the quality of your water (and how you test and treat it) will become a decision only you can make.
With private well water, there is always the possibility of contamination. It is important to test your water regularly. If needed, treat it with an effective and efficient drinking water filter to ensure that your tap water is free of bacteria, chemicals or other environmental contaminants.
Municipal water is also at-risk for contamination at times, so a reverse osmosis system can be the ultimate line of defense for anything a water treatment company may miss.
Your area’s general water quality should also be considered. Is it hard or soft? Are there known contaminants in the annual water quality report? Are you near farms or rural areas where animal waste or pesticides are used?
Working With Our Water Treatment Professionals
These decisions don’t have to be stressful or impossible. You’ll have enough on your plate with all of the other decisions, so working with an expert water professional as you begin your research will be simple and helpful. From the first water tests to the maintenance and repairs, your water quality is something you can count on for years to come in your new home.
Once we identify potential issues and your home’s demands, we can find the perfect product. Give us a call as you begin the process of building – we will be there for you every step of the way.
Welcome to Water in California - Your Resource For Drinking Water, Water Softener, and Water Filtration Information in California
Water in California is an educational service provided by Pacific Coast Water Systems to help consumers stay informed about the water they use in their homes. It includes the latest water news and information as well as links to current water events.
