Menu
Hard water can be softened by passing the water through an ion exchange resin (water softening) where the calcium and magnesium are absorbed. Periodically the absorbed hardness needs to be flushed away and the resin regenerated with salt. Most resin if maintained correctly will last 7 – 10 years. Halpin & Hayward Ltd are specialists in water treatment and will correctly size the water softener for your domestic, commercial or industrial application.
We are primarily and industrial water treatment company and as such our equipment is:
Water described as “hard” is high in dissolved minerals, specifically calcium and magnesium. Hard water is not a health risk, but a nuisance because of mineral buildup on fixtures and poor soap and/or detergent performance. As water moves through soil and rock, it dissolves very small amounts of minerals and holds them in solution. Calcium and magnesium dissolved in water are the two most common minerals that make water “hard.”
Best practice is to have your water tested by a laboratory to confirm hardness.
There are a number of ways to confirm whether your water is hard. 1 A simple hardness test can be performed which will determine the level of hardness in water, 2 certain area’s are known for being hard water area’s or 3 neighbors will advise whether the water is hard based on the condition of their tap, kettles or showers.
The best type of water softener to get depends on your specific needs, water usage, and the degree of hardness in your water. For most households, a salt-based ion exchange water softener is effective in removing calcium and magnesium ions that cause hard water. If you prefer a salt-free option, consider a template assisted crystallization (TAC) or a reverse osmosis system. It’s important to consider factors such as maintenance requirements, size, efficiency, and cost when choosing the best water softener for your home. Consulting with a professional or getting a water test can help determine the most suitable type of water softener for your situation.
Having a water softener can offer multiple benefits, such as reducing the negative effects of hard water on your plumbing, appliances, and skin. It also helps prevent limescale buildup and improves the effectiveness of soaps and detergents. However, whether it’s better to have a water softener depends on the hardness of your water and your specific needs. Some people may prefer the taste of hard water or want to maintain certain mineral content. Ultimately, weighing the pros and cons based on your circumstances can help determine if having a water softener is better for you.
Water softeners can last for many years if properly maintained. Typically, the lifespan of a water softener can range from 10 to 20 years. Regular maintenance, such as refilling salt and routine cleaning, can help prolong its life. The longevity also depends on the quality of the unit and the volume of water it processes. Regular servicing by a professional can further extend its lifespan.
Most people will know whether their home or factory is in a hard water area because neighbours have a softener or equipment needs protecting against hard water. Hard water is particularly an issue when water is heated causing the calcium and magnesium salts to drop of our solution and cause limescale.
Yes. Your local council keeps records of water hardness in your area. Alternatively call us and we will confirm if you are in a hard water area. We have records of water hardness for most parts of Ireland and can confirm whether you need a softener or not.
A water softener is a vertical vessel that contains an ion exchange media. Water is passed through it allowing the absorption and removal of calcium and magnesium salts from water preventing the deposition of limescale. A softener is required in hard water area’s to protect equipment and fittings and reduces the negative effects of hard water on your plumbing, appliances, and skin.
Hard water can be softened by passing the water through an ion exchange resin where the calcium and magnesium are absorbed. Periodically the hardness needs to be flushed away and the resin regenerated with salt.
The ion exchange media will absorb the calcium and magnesium from the water but it only has a certain capacity. Once that capacity is reached the media is saturated and it needs to regenerate to remove the absorbed calcium so it can work again. This is done automatically by shutting off the outlet, drawing in a brine solution and using a reverse flow (backwash) on the vessel to lift and clean the media. Once backwash is complete the softener will automatically return to service.
This depends on site requirements. A simplex will shut off the water supply during regeneration. This may suit some sites as it can be completed late at night during low demand periods. However if continuous water supply is required then a duplex is necessary.
Usually annual servicing is sufficient. We are available for call out at any time but a correctly maintained and serviced softener should not need more frequent attention.
Yes. We provide simple hardness test kits that will confirm whether your softener is working or not. We recommend that our industrial clients test their softeners at least weekly to confirm good operation.
Maintaining good salt levels in your brine tank is essential. Good water pressure is also a requirement for backwash to ensure the resin bed is lifted and cleaned properly. Power should be constant and drains kept clear.
Domestic softeners take roughly 60 mins and our larger industrial units take up to 90 minutes.
Domestically its not always necessary. Industrially it’s a good idea to have a sediment pre-filter to protect the resin from fouling. Where there are high chlorine residuals in the mains supply a carbon filter may also be considered before the softener as chlorine damages softener resin.
Softeners can act as a reservoir for bacteria as they are often in a warm plantrooms and can be off / stagnant for periods which can facilitate bacteria growth. A good service program will include a regular disinfection of the resin bed.
We recommend pelletised (golf balls!) salt tablets rather than granular because it dissolves slowly and does not congeal at the base of the brine tank causing suction system blockages.
Unit 2, Churchtown Business Park,
Beaumont Avenue,
Churchtown,
Dublin 14
Copyright © 2023 All Rights Reserved – Halpin & Hayward – Managed by Lambourn Digital