What are water conditioners?

A water conditioner is a device designed to filter water. They are used in homes and buildings in which a hard water supply is present and soft water is desired.

As water moves through the ground it can pick up calcium, magnesium, chalk and lime. Water conditioners filter these minerals out of hard water supplies. They can be attached to an incoming water line or individual appliances. Homeowners may desire soft water for bathing, washing clothes and keeping streaks off of glassware. Hard water also puts more wear on household appliances and causes them to use more energy. Soft water may not be desirable for drinking, however, as it has an elevated level of sodium.