Water Softeners: How They Work & Their Main Types

Image of a Reynolds Water Twinstream Water Conditioning System.

A water softener is a valuable tool for homes affected by varying levels of hard water, offering a multitude of benefits. It works by removing minerals such as calcium, iron, and magnesium, which are primarily responsible for hard water issues. The use of a water softener helps avoid problems like mineral deposits, scale buildup that can lead to leaky faucets and clogged pipes, damage to appliances using water, residues on dishes cleaned in dishwashers, dry skin and hair post-showering, and the fading of clothes washed in hard water.

By eliminating these heavy minerals, softened water enhances the quality of life in several ways:

  • improved skin and hair health
  • brighter and softer laundry
  • cleaner dishes and glasses
  • reduced cleaning effort
  • long-term cost savings
  • improved taste and clarity of drinking water.

How a Water Softener Works

The core technology behind most water softeners is the ion exchange process, which replaces hard minerals with sodium (or sometimes potassium). This process occurs as water flows through a tank filled with resin beads that are pre-saturated with sodium. The hard minerals swap places with sodium ions, which then dissolve into the water, leaving it softened. Eventually, the resin beads get saturated with the removed minerals and need to be regenerated with sodium-rich water to restore their softening capability, allowing the system to continue providing softened water to the household.

Types of Water Softeners

Water softeners are designed to address hard water issues through two primary methods: ion exchange, which removes heavy minerals from the water, and neutralization, which prevents these minerals from clustering and keeps them dissolved in the water. The two main categories of water softeners, each functioning differently, include:

  • Salt-based systems, which may also include dual-tank configurations
  • Salt-free systems, which include magnetic variants

Salt-Based Water Softeners

Salt-based water softeners are widely used for their effectiveness in removing minerals like calcium and magnesium from water and exchanging them for sodium. This process turns hard water soft, making it healthier for use. Despite their efficiency, these systems require weekly salt recharges and are larger, which may not suit smaller spaces. However, portable versions are available, ideal for RVs, boats, and small homes, offering an affordable solution for on-the-go soft water needs. These portable softeners are less expensive but need frequent recharging. While salt-based softeners slightly increase the water’s sodium content, they remain within a safe range for most people, though those on low-sodium diets might prefer alternatives.

Dual-Tank Water Softeners

Dual-tank water softeners feature two resin tanks, ensuring a constant supply of soft water, even during one tank’s regeneration phase. They’re especially beneficial for well water, capable of filtering heavy minerals more effectively. However, dual-tank systems are larger, more expensive, and not necessary for most households, but they excel in high-demand situations without the risk of running out of softened water.

Salt-Free Water Softeners

Salt-free water softeners, unlike their salt-based counterparts, do not remove hard minerals from water but instead, condition the water to prevent these minerals from forming scale on fixtures and appliances. They are an initial costlier option that operates without salt or electricity, suitable for small to large homes. However, they may not perform as well in areas with extremely hard water or high water usage.

Electromagnetic and Magnetic

Electromagnetic and magnetic water softeners are compact, making them ideal for small spaces. They work by altering the charge of mineral ions with a magnetic field, preventing them from sticking to surfaces. Electromagnetic models require an electrical outlet, while magnetic ones do not, offering a maintenance-free solution albeit with limited effectiveness for smaller homes.

Polyphosphates

Polyphosphate softeners use a filtration cartridge to condition water, preventing scale formation, and are commonly used in commercial settings to protect equipment. Full filtration systems not only prevent scaling but also remove a wide range of contaminants, making water safer but requiring periodic and costly filter replacements.

Full Filtration

Full filtration systems offer a dual benefit: they soften water and eliminate a variety of drinking water contaminants. Operating without salt, these systems utilize a filtration process that transforms minerals into a crystalline form to prevent scale buildup on pipes and appliances. Additionally, they effectively filter out harmful substances such as herbicides, bacteria, viruses, pesticides, and chlorine. While offering significant advantages, the filters in these systems come with a higher cost and need replacement approximately every six months to a year.

It’s crucial to recognize the distinction between water softeners and purifiers. Water softeners are safe for treating water with hardening minerals, either by removing or neutralizing them to prevent them from causing scale. However, they do not function as water filters and are incapable of eliminating other harmful substances from the water. Therefore, their use should be limited to softening water. For concerns about the overall safety of your drinking water, especially regarding contaminants other than hardening minerals, it’s advisable to consult your local health department, conduct personal tests, or have the water professionally analyzed.

Not sure what’s right for your home or business? Contact the experts at Reynolds Water Conditioning; we’ll walk you through the process to determine the best solution for your water type.

Reynolds Water Conditioning was established in 1931 and is Michigan’s oldest water conditioning treatment company. Still owned and operated by the Reynolds family, we take pride in providing the highest quality products at a cost-effective price. If your tap water lacks the quality you deserve, contact us today at 800-572-9575.

Written by the digital marketing team at Creative Programs & Systems: www.cpsmi.com

The Unseen Consequences of Road Deicing: How Salt is Impacting Our Waterways

As winter envelops many parts of the world, the familiar sight of trucks scattering salt on icy roads becomes a common occurrence. This practice, aimed at ensuring safer driving conditions, uses sodium chloride, a compound similar to table salt, for deicing roadways. While the immediate benefits of this method are clear, its long-term environmental impact, especially on our water systems, is a growing concern.

The Scale of Road Salt Usage

The use of road salt, or sodium chloride, has become an integral part of winter road maintenance in cold climates. According to research from The University of Toledo, approximately 25 million metric tons of this deicing salt are applied annually across various regions. The quantity varies by state but can range from 3 to 18 pounds per square meter, roughly the area of a small kitchen table.

The Dual-Edged Sword of Road Deicing

The primary goal of road deicing is to prevent vehicle accidents during snowy conditions. Indeed, studies show that road deicers can reduce car accidents by over 78%. However, the environmental trade-off of this safety measure is significant, particularly regarding the salinity of freshwater sources.

Rising Salinity in Freshwater Sources

Research titled “Road Salts, Human Safety and the Rising Salinity of Our Fresh Waters” highlights a worrying trend: an increase in the salinity of freshwater bodies due to road salt. This phenomenon leads to the contamination of local drinking water supplies, pushing the salt concentration levels in some local streams to be 20 to 30 times higher than the chronic chloride threshold set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

The Ripple Effect on Water Quality

The impact of sodium chloride goes beyond just increasing salinity. It can mobilize harmful chemicals like radon, mercury, and lead, contaminating water supplies. A notable example of this was observed in Flint, Michigan, where excessive road salt use increased chloride levels, resulting in lead contamination from water pipes.

The Inadequacy of Current Safeguards

Current EPA guidelines on salt pollution appear to be insufficient in protecting water supplies. Researchers, including Bill Hintz from The University of Toledo, argue that the impacts of deicing salts can be lethal, even at current threshold levels, and call for a revision of these standards.

Exploring Alternative Solutions to Road Salt

To combat the negative effects of road salt, experts propose several strategies. These include creating covered salt storage facilities to prevent runoff, utilizing anti-icing liquids before storms to reduce salt dependency, and employing more efficient snowplows that conform better to road surfaces. Additionally, there is a call for public awareness and a shift in expectations regarding winter weather management to lessen the ecological footprint.

Balancing Safety and Environmental Health

As we navigate the challenges of maintaining safe roads in winter, it’s crucial to balance human safety with environmental responsibility. Understanding the consequences of road salt on our waterways is the first step toward adopting more sustainable deicing methods. It’s a delicate balance, but one that is essential for the health of our planet and future generations.

If you’re concerned about chemicals in your drinking water, contact Reynolds Water Conditioning today for testing and viable treatment solutions.  

Reynolds Water Conditioning was established in 1931 and is Michigan’s oldest water conditioning treatment company. Still owned and operated by the Reynolds family, we take pride in providing the highest quality products at a cost-effective price. If your tap water lacks the quality you deserve, contact us today at 800-572-9575.

Written by the digital marketing team at Creative Programs & Systems: www.cpsmi.com

Unlocking the Benefits: How a Water Softener Can Help

If you’ve ever dealt with hard water issues in your home, you may have heard about the magic solution known as a water softener. But what exactly does a water softener do, and why is it essential for households dealing with hard water? In this article, we’ll dive deep into the world of water softeners, exploring their function, benefits, and the difference they can make in your daily life.

Understanding Hard Water and the Effects of Iron and Manganese

Hard water contains high concentrations of minerals, primarily calcium and magnesium ions. These minerals are naturally present in groundwater and can create household problems when they accumulate in your plumbing and appliances.

Hard water-related issues encompass the corrosion and scaling within pipes, pervasive staining in showers, bathtubs, and sinks, and your water heater’s premature wear and tear. Scale build-up inside water heaters can insulate the temperature sensor within the tank, causing them to work harder to reach the desired temperature. Iron and manganese in water can also lead to unsightly rusty or black/brown staining and corrosion within the home.

What Does a Water Softener Do?

A water softener is a household appliance designed to combat the adverse effects of hard water. It operates using an ion exchange process, which involves removing calcium and magnesium ions from the water and replacing them with sodium or potassium ions.

A water softener proves highly efficient in eliminating the presence of hard water minerals, dissolved iron, and manganese in private wells that supply homes throughout Michigan. While the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has not established specific limits for water hardness, these minerals, namely magnesium and calcium, can significantly compromise the quality of your home’s water. The EPA has set maximum allowable levels for iron and manganese as secondary contaminants at 0.3 and 0.05 parts per million, respectively. Although these concentrations seem minute, their impact can be quite substantial.

When addressing elevated levels of hard water minerals, iron, or manganese in your well water, the recommended solution is water softening.

What Does a Water Softener Remove?

A water softener effectively eliminates dissolved forms of iron, manganese, and hard water minerals. A cartridge filter with an appropriate micron rating becomes necessary to address particulate iron or manganese. Depending on the specific water conditions, this may involve using a series of filters with varying micron ratings to tackle higher levels of these contaminants in the water. A water treatment professional can best determine the suitable micron rating and filter style based on water test results and other relevant indicators.

How Does a Water Softener Work?

  • Ion Exchange: Water enters the water softener tank, flowing through a resin bed made of tiny resin beads. These beads are negatively charged, attracting positively charged calcium and magnesium ions.
  • Removal of Hardness Minerals: As the water passes through the resin bed, the calcium and magnesium ions bind to the resin beads, effectively removing them from the water.
  • Regeneration: Over time, the resin beads become saturated with hard minerals. The water softener flushes a brine solution (a saltwater mixture) through the resin tank to regenerate the resin and continue the softening process. This brine solution displaces the calcium and magnesium ions and recharges the resin beads with sodium or potassium ions.
  • Softened Water: The treated water, now free of calcium and magnesium ions, exits the softener and flows into your home’s plumbing system. This softened water is less likely to cause scale buildup, soap scum, or other hard water-related problems.

The Benefits of Using a Water Softener

There are many benefits to using a water softener, the primary being scale prevention. A softener prevents the accumulation of scale deposits in your pipes, appliances, and fixtures, which can extend the life of your plumbing system and appliances. With reduced scale buildup, your water heater and other devices will use less energy, potentially saving costs. Softened water is also gentler on your skin and hair, leaving you feeling cleaner and reducing dryness and irritation. It allows soap to lather more efficiently, reducing the amount of soap and detergent needed for cleaning and laundry.

A water softener is a valuable addition to any home or office facing challenging water issues. It’s a simple yet effective solution that can make a noticeable difference in the quality of your water. Consider installing a water softener or conditioning system to enjoy the many benefits of clean, softened water.

Contact Reynolds Water Conditioning today to discuss water solutions for your home or office!

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Reynolds Water Conditioning was established in 1931 and is Michigan’s oldest water conditioning treatment company. Still owned and operated by the Reynolds family, we take pride in providing the highest quality products at a cost-effective price. If your tap water lacks the quality you deserve, contact us today at 800-572-9575.

Written by the digital marketing team at Creative Programs & Systems: www.cpsmi.com

The Hidden Gem: Private Wells Supplying Homes in Michigan

When considering clean and reliable water resources in Michigan, most people first think of the Great Lakes. However, there’s an overlooked water source that has provided countless residents for generations: private wells. An extensive network of private wells dots the landscape, supplying water to rural and suburban homes. These private wells offer homeowners a degree of autonomy and control over their water supply, as they are not connected to municipal water systems.

The Significance of Private Water Wells

Self-Sufficiency:

Private wells empower homeowners to have their own water source, reducing dependence on municipal water supplies and potentially saving on water bills.

Water Quality:

Many private well owners attest to the superior taste and quality of well water, which often comes from underground aquifers free from the chlorine and additives present in treated city water.

Environmental Impact:

By relying on their wells, homeowners can help reduce the strain on municipal water treatment facilities and decrease their ecological footprint.

Things to Consider Regarding Private Water Wells

Water Quality Testing:

Regular testing for contaminants like bacteria, nitrates, and arsenic is crucial to ensure the safety of well water. Michigan residents should take advantage of the state’s free well water testing program to assess water quality.

Maintenance:

Private well owners need to invest in regular well maintenance to ensure their systems operate efficiently and reliably. This includes checking pumps, pressure tanks, and well casings.

Regulations:

Michigan has specific regulations governing private wells, and homeowners must comply with these guidelines to ensure their wells meet safety standards.

Vulnerability to Contaminants:

Private wells are vulnerable to contamination from various sources, including nearby septic systems, agricultural runoff, and industrial pollutants. Ensuring proper well construction and maintenance is essential to minimize these risks.

Protecting Michigan’s Well Water

  1. Test your water regularly and follow recommendations for water treatment or filtration if necessary.
  2. Work with licensed contractors for installation, repair, and maintenance.
  3. Be aware of potential sources of contamination in the vicinity of the well.
  4. Stay informed about state regulations related to private wells.

Private wells supplying homes in Michigan are vital in providing clean and reliable water to residents across the state. While they offer numerous benefits, homeowners must also be diligent in ensuring the safety and quality of their well water. By taking proactive steps and adhering to state regulations, Michigan residents can continue to enjoy the advantages of private well ownership while protecting their health and the environment for future generations.

If you have well water, contact the experts at Reynold’s Water for testing and solutions for treating water and more!

Reynolds Water Conditioning was established in 1931 and is Michigan’s oldest water conditioning treatment company. Still owned and operated by the Reynolds family, we take pride in providing the highest quality products at a cost-effective price. If your tap water lacks the quality you deserve, contact us today at 800-572-9575.

Written by the digital marketing team at Creative Programs & Systems: www.cpsmi.com

Whole House Water Filtration Systems vs. Reverse Osmosis Systems

Are you wondering what the differences are between a whole house water filter system and a reverse osmosis system? They both have their own unique features and benefits. Keep reading our blog to learn more about these two popular filtration systems.   

Understanding Whole House Water Filter Systems

A whole house water filter system is positioned where your main water line enters your home. It’s a collective set of filters within a single unit, filtering both hot and cold water.

Pros:

  • Filters all the water in your home
  • Enhances quality of water for drinking, showering, etc.
  • Systems vary for specific needs (i.e., city or well water)
  • Comprehensive filtration

Cons:

  • Installation can be challenging; often requires a plumber
  • Permanent setup, not ideal for rental properties
  • Reliable systems start around $1,000.

Understanding Reverse Osmosis Systems

Reverse osmosis systems are also a collective set of filters within a single unit, but they utilize a specialized, semi-permeable membrane with fine pores to filter out contaminants. While they can be placed at various points of use, they’re often installed under kitchen sinks due to water waste concerns.

Pros:

  • Provides exceptional filtration, removing nearly all contaminants
  • Versatile placements: under-sink, countertop, or whole home
  • Generally straightforward installation

Cons:

  • Strips water of beneficial minerals
  • May result in flat-tasting water
  • Uses excess water

What’s the Main Difference Between a Whole House System and a Reverse Osmosis System?

The primary distinction between whole-house systems and reverse osmosis systems lies in their filtration process. While entire house systems utilize a sequence of filter cartridges to capture contaminants, reverse osmosis systems incorporate an extra filtration layer—a semi-permeable membrane—that removes almost all dissolved solids, including minerals and metals, from the water.

Which is better for your home or office? It just depends on what you’re looking for!

Some Other Things to Consider Regarding Water Filtration:

  • Cost: Whole house water filtration systems range from $500 to $2,000+, with prices influenced by brand, quality, and performance specialization. With their advanced designs, air injection systems typically cost more than cartridge systems. Meanwhile, under-sink reverse osmosis systems are priced between $150 and $1,000, determined by design and performance.
  • Design: Whole house systems’ designs differ. City water systems often combine carbon media with others like ion exchange, KDF, and activated alumina. They come as tank-based or cartridge-based, with most having a sediment pre-filter. In contrast, reverse osmosis systems use a multi-stage approach, including sediment, carbon, polishing filters, and a semi-permeable membrane. Traditional RO systems store water in tanks, while contemporary models are tankless.
  • Installation Location: Whole house water filtration systems treat all water entering your home, installed near the water’s entry point. On the other hand, reverse osmosis systems can filter the entire home’s supply or just specific areas like the kitchen sink.
  • Contaminant Removal: Whole house systems target common drinking water contaminants like chlorine, chloramine, heavy metals, VOCs, nitrate, arsenic, fluoride, pharmaceuticals, and agrochemicals. However, their efficacy varies, and some might address even more contaminants. In contrast, reverse osmosis systems offer bottled-quality water, removing said contaminants plus bacteria, minerals, salts, cysts, and certain viruses.
  • Efficiency: Whole house systems are generally efficient. Most don’t rely on electricity or waste water, making them cost-effective and straightforward. However, some, like air injection systems, do waste water during backwashing. While reverse osmosis (RO) systems are improving in efficiency, they inherently waste water by flushing contaminants. Some modern RO systems offer a 1:1 water waste to pure water ratio, but traditional ones can waste up to 4 gallons for every gallon purified.
  • Maintenance Requirements: Whole house systems for city water typically need annual maintenance, with filters changed every 12 months, though some may require more frequent changes. Systems using pre-loaded media tanks need maintenance every 5-10 years. In contrast, RO systems demand more upkeep. They usually have three filters needing replacement every 6-12 months and a semi-permeable membrane with a two-year lifespan.

Need help deciding which water filtration system is best for your household? Contact a water specialist expert at Reynolds Water Conditioning today for assistance!  

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Reynolds Water Conditioning was established in 1931 and is Michigan’s oldest water conditioning treatment company. Still owned and operated by the Reynolds family, we take pride in providing the highest quality products at a cost-effective price. If your tap water lacks the quality you deserve, contact us today at 800-572-9575.

Written by the digital marketing team at Creative Programs & Systems: https://www.cpsmi.com/

August is National Water Quality Month

Imagine life without water. It’s a terrible concept if you really think about it. A life without water or a lack of reliable, clean drinking water is not a welcome thought. Those who live in certain parts of the world are all too familiar with the barriers to obtaining clean water, while others don’t fully recognize the scarcity of this natural resource. National Water Quality Month was created to prompt people to be mindful and preserve our sacred availability of fresh water.

Earth’s Freshwater

Despite water covering 70% of Earth’s surface, only 3% is freshwater, with just 1% being easily accessible to sustain the needs of over 7 billion people. That’s a hard fact to swallow, especially when you look at a globe or satellite imagery and see Earth primarily blue. According to the U.S. Geological Survey, more than 68% of Earth’s freshwater is found in icecaps and glaciers, and just over 30% is in the ground. This leaves only .03% of our freshwater to fill lakes, rivers, and swamps.It’s remarkable to think that the water sustaining both land and marine life on Earth is so scarce. This understanding highlights the necessity to use this resource wisely. A crucial beginning or first step is to educate ourselves and future generations on the sensible use and protection of water.

The Start of National Water Quality Month

National Water Quality Month can be traced to two U.S. congressional acts from the early 1970s to safeguard our water resources. The 1972 Clean Water Act initiated federal efforts to combat water pollution by prohibiting the excessive discharge of toxins into waterways and established standards for surface water used by humans. The Safe Drinking Water Act of 1974 further ensured the quality of groundwater and public water systems.In 2005, National Water Quality Month was established by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) with support from the United Nations. This initiative aimed to encourage discussions about preserving our natural water resources, focusing on steps households and communities can take to guarantee future generations have access to safe and clean drinking water.The Importance of Freshwater & How It Affects YouConsider the importance that water has on everything, not just humans, but also wildlife and plants – a whole ecosystem that cycles through generations. Think about the little things that you do on a daily basis that may or may not have a negative effect on water. By being aware of your specific impact, you’ll hopefully be more cognizant in making a positive change. 

Lifesaving Freshwater:

  • All living beings require water, specifically freshwater for drinking. Saltwater, due to its salinity, isn’t suitable for direct consumption.Freshwater is crucial for irrigating crops. Saltwater is detrimental to most plants because it can dehydrate them and affect soil quality.We rely on freshwater for sanitation, such as washing, cleaning, and other hygiene-related activities.Freshwater habitats like rivers, lakes, and wetlands support distinct biodiversity. Many species are adapted only to freshwater environments and can’t survive in saltwater conditions.Industries prefer freshwater for many processes since saltwater can be corrosive and requires desalination for many applications, which is energy intensive.Many regions base their economy on freshwater sources. For instance, cities by freshwater lakes or rivers often have bustling economies centered on trade, tourism, and fishing.Access to clean freshwater is directly linked to health. Contaminated freshwater sources can lead to diseases like cholera, dysentery, and other water-borne illnesses.
  • Given its scarcity and the vital role it plays in various facets of life and society, freshwater’s importance is especially pronounced. Protecting and managing freshwater resources is crucial for sustainable development and the well-being of all life on Earth.

    Charities & Resources for Clean Water

    Many organizations worldwide are dedicated to providing people with clean, reliable drinking water or mobilizing efforts to free our waterways from pollution. Below, we list a few trustworthy sources to review and consider their cause. If you’re able to make a monetary donation, great. But really, the primary purpose of this article is to share some knowledge about water as a precious resource and hopefully help people make a conscious effort to sustain our water for generations.Learn more and consider donating to:Clean Water Action – Michigan: https://cleanwater.org/make-special-gift-protect-clean-water-michiganThe Ocean Clean Up: https://theoceancleanup.com/donate/World Water Reserve: https://worldwaterreserve.com/clean-water-charity-organizations/For even more information, visit: The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), The Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA), The Clean Water Act (CWA), The World Health Organization (WHO), and your local water utility to stay abreast of the latest happenings in your community and beyond.

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    Reynolds Water Conditioning was established in 1931 and is Michigan’s oldest water conditioning treatment company. Still owned and operated by the Reynolds family, we take pride in providing the highest quality products at a cost-effective price. If your tap water lacks the quality you deserve, contact us today at 800-572-9575.Written by the digital marketing team at Creative Programs & Systems: https://www.cpsmi.com/

    Whole House Water Filtration – Rochester, MI

    Whole home water purification systems are available to tackle the different types of water quality challenges present in Michigan cities. It’s crucial to select the right technology and size the system appropriately to handle your household’s water consumption. A system installed by professionals is vital, along with consistent maintenance over time to ensure its longevity and effective operation.

    While signs of water quality concerns like unpleasant odors and tastes, staining of clothes and bathroom fixtures, etc., signal existing issues, the recommended initial step is to conduct a water test. This test will identify the contaminants or minerals present in the water and their respective quantities. This information is key to making an informed system recommendation and establishing a pathway toward excellent water quality in your home.

    A water softener serves as a form of whole home water filtration system, engineered to eliminate hard water minerals such as magnesium and calcium, along with dissolved iron and manganese from the water. For water carrying high concentrations of iron or manganese, often known as “the stainers,” an “up-flow” water softener is suggested to avert mineral accumulation at the base of the water softener. Additionally, high-efficiency water softeners, which are more effective in terms of water and salt utilization, are more desirable.

    Systems exist that can eliminate unpleasant tastes and odors, sediment, and a host of unwanted minerals and contaminants in the water. Initiating a water test sets the stage for the appropriate solution. View our available water softeners and water conditions, or contact Reynolds Water to schedule service.

    Whole House Water Filtration – Arsenic and Radon

    Other contaminants found in Michigan well water include Radon and Arsenic. Radon present in water can be securely extracted using an aeration system. This system stirs the incoming well water inside a sealed chamber, allowing the radon gas to separate from the water. The gas is then safely expelled to the exterior environment.

    Arsenic in water can be addressed by setting up tanks at the home’s entry point filled with a special resin designed to trap arsenic before it enters your home’s water system. Drinking water systems can also leverage reverse osmosis technology to eliminate arsenic effectively. Consult with a tech at Reynolds Water to determine the system that best suits your needs.

    Reynolds Water Conditioning is a full-service water filtration and testing facility, serving Michigan residents since 1931. Contact us for further questions and assistance with your water needs.

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    Reynolds Water Conditioning was established in 1931 and is Michigan’s oldest water conditioning treatment company. Still owned and operated by the Reynolds family, we take pride in providing the highest quality products at a cost-effective price. If your tap water lacks the quality you deserve, contact us today at 800-572-9575.

    Written by the digital marketing team at Creative Programs & Systems: https://www.cpsmi.com/ 

    Removing PFAS From Your Drinking Water – Farmington Hills, MI

    PFAS in Drinking Water: Analyzing Health Risks and Methods for Elimination

    Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, or PFAS, comprise a family of synthetic chemicals in production and have been utilized across various industries since the 1940s. These chemicals are frequently incorporated into products such as Teflon, water and stain-repellent fabrics, paints, waxes, and firefighting foams. The latter being a significant contributor to groundwater contamination near airports, military bases, and firefighter training facilities. There is a growing concern as these chemicals have been identified in alarming concentrations in drinking water sources throughout the United States.

    PFAS chemicals, particularly PFOA and PFOS, have been the most widely manufactured and studied. They persist in the environment due to their long half-lives and can accumulate in the human body over time. Studies indicate that exposure to these substances can harm human health. In response to these findings, production of these chemicals has ceased in the United States. However, they are still manufactured in other nations, and products containing these chemicals could be imported into the U.S.

    Considering the potential health risks associated with PFAS, it is vital to consider strategies for eliminating or reducing their presence in drinking water sources. Various filtration methods can be effective in removing these chemicals from water. Understanding the gravity of the issue and adopting effective measures can contribute to safeguarding public health.

    Health Impacts of PFAS Contamination in Water

    Exposure to PFAS, or per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, has been linked to various adverse health effects in humans. When humans or animals consume these chemicals, whether through food or water, they are absorbed and can build up in the body. Since PFAS has a protracted presence in the human body, continuous exposure from various sources can cause levels to escalate. Over time, this can reach a critical point where individuals experience detrimental health consequences.

    Research has demonstrated that two specific PFAS chemicals, PFOA and PFOS, have the potential to induce a variety of adverse effects. In laboratory animals, these substances have been shown to affect reproductive and developmental processes negatively, cause damage to the liver and kidneys, and impair the immune system. Additionally, PFOA and PFOS have been associated with animal tumor development.

    In human studies, the most consistent outcome associated with PFAS exposure is elevated cholesterol levels among those exposed. There are also more limited findings linking exposure to changes in infant birth weights. Specifically, for PFOA, there is some evidence of a correlation with cancer, while PFOS has been connected with disruptions to thyroid hormone levels.

    Given the potential ramifications on health, it is vital to be vigilant about PFAS exposure, mainly through drinking water, and take necessary precautions to mitigate the risks associated with these chemicals.

    Removing PFAS From Drinking Water

    Several technologies can be employed to effectively eliminate PFAS, particularly Perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and Perfluorooctane sulfonic acid (PFOS), from drinking water. Among these, ion exchange, activated carbon adsorption, and reverse osmosis have proven highly effective. For residential settings requiring whole-house filtration, ion exchange systems with a dual-tank design are emerging as a superior option due to their enhanced safety and effectiveness. This involves exchanging ions between the contaminants and a medium. At the same time, activated carbon adsorption traps contaminants on carbon particles, and reverse osmosis uses a semi-permeable membrane to filter out PFAS.

    Reverse Osmosis: A Filtration System to Remove PFAS in Water

    Reverse osmosis, a technology that employs a membrane for filtration, can be effectively utilized as a point-of-use system for purifying water from PFAS. This can be set up at specific water outlets, such as kitchen sinks, where it directly feeds a designated drinking water tap and appliances like ice makers or refrigerator water dispensers. The reverse osmosis system can be conveniently installed under the kitchen sink or in the basement beneath it, with a pipeline running up to supply the dedicated faucet.

    To learn more about PFSAs, visit www.epa.gov/pfas/pfas-explained

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    Reynolds Water Conditioning was established in 1931 and is Michigan’s oldest water conditioning treatment company. Still owned and operated by the Reynolds family, we take pride in providing the highest quality products at a cost-effective price. If your tap water lacks the quality you deserve, contact us today at 800-572-9575.

    Written by the digital marketing team at Creative Programs & Systems: https://www.cpsmi.com/

    Local Water Utilities Anticipate Higher Rates Due to New EPA Rule

    The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recently proposed a new rule that limits the amount of PFAS, also known as “forever chemicals,” in drinking water. PFAS are correlated to cancer, high cholesterol, birth defects, infertility, weakened childhood immunity, endocrine disruption, weight gain, and more. These man-made chemicals are found in 99.9 percent of the population’s blood. 

    The EPA said, “This rule will prevent thousands of deaths and reduce tens of thousands of serious PFAS-attributable illnesses.”

    The new regulations will require PFAS to be at zero parts per trillion or unitless in public water. The EPA says the changes will keep people safe and are aiming to complete regulation standards by the end of 2023. 

    Patrick Berge, a city Public Works Director, said, “If the EPA imposes these new regulations, Public Works will have to figure out how to filter the PFAS out of the water and dispose of them safely. That would be an expense to the rate-payer. You can be talking anywhere from a few million to tens of millions.” 

    Ben Harris, a Utility District General Manager, said, “It will cost millions,” and that it would be difficult to follow.

    The EPA stated that the alterations are crucial to ensure the safety of individuals from PFAS. The agency intends to achieve the final regulation by the conclusion of this year.

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    Reynolds Water Conditioning was established in 1931 and is Michigan’s oldest water conditioning treatment company. Still owned and operated by the Reynolds family, we take pride in providing the highest quality products at a cost-effective price. If your tap water lacks the quality you deserve, contact us today at 800-572-9575.

    Written by the digital marketing team at Creative Programs & Systems: https://www.cpsmi.com

    PFAS to be Regulated in U.S. Drinking Water

    For the first time, the United States government will regulate PFAS (Perfluoroaklyl and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances) in the nation’s drinking water. PFAS do not break down under typical environmental conditions due to their tight chemical bond structure, which is why they are also dubbed “Forever chemicals.” It is suspected that these man-made chemicals can remain in the environment for thousands of years, though they have only been around for 60 years. 

    Widely used in firefighting foams, cosmetics, non-stick cookware (Teflon), anti-static spray, clothing, pesticides, and much more, PFAS effortlessly contaminates soil and drinking water. Eventually, PFAS made its way into the food chain. It is estimated that 99.9 percent of people worldwide have PFAS in their bloodstream, including more than 200 million Americans in all 50 states. 

    Due to their unbreakable nature, these cancer-causing carcinogens are in drinking water nationwide. Moreover, they slip through many filters and are undetectable by smell, taste, or sight. PFAS has been associated with various cancers, immune deficiencies, pregnancy complications, birth defects, and more. 

    Now, a new regulatory proposal from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) would finally limit the amount of PFAS allowed in public drinking water. 

    EPA administrator Michael Regan said, “EPA’s proposal to establish a national standard for PFAS in drinking water is informed by the best available science and would help provide states with the guidance they need to make decisions that best protect their communities.” 

    A senior scientist at Environmental Working Group (EWG), David Andrews said, “The entire class of PFAS chemicals is a health concern. Action to reduce exposure cannot come soon enough.” 

    If you are worried about PFAS in your drinking water, contact the water treatment experts at Reynolds Water today. 

    Reynolds Water Conditioning was established in 1931 and is Michigan’s oldest water conditioning treatment company. Still owned and operated by the Reynolds family, we take pride in providing the highest quality products at a cost-effective price. If your tap water lacks the quality you deserve, contact us today at 800-572-9575.

    Written by the digital marketing team at Creative Programs & Systems: https://www.cpsmi.com/