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Does soft water affect the operation of a humidifier?

Soft water provides for easier maintenance of a humidifier. When hard water is evaporated, the mineral residue consists of a hard scale which normally requires some drastic treatment (such as chipping or acid) for its removal. When soft water is used, the residue is commonly called soft and can usually be removed by flushing the unit with water or going over the surface with a brush.

A point to remember: Softening water does not reduce the total amount of minerals present; ion exchange softening merely converts the calcium and magnesium minerals to sodium minerals. The humidifier most common in homes has an open pan, a small tube connected to a water source, and float valve. When water evaporates, the float valve opens to permit make-up water to flow into the pan. Sooner or later this type of unit fills with minerals deposited by the inflowing water.

Many humidifiers today automatically accomplish periodic flushing with fresh soft water to keep the mineral concentration down, and the unit operating satisfactorily.

For more information about the quality of your water, or for your FREE water test, call Aquality Solutions 1-866-4WATER1.

This article was originally published in Illinois Country Living a magazine circulated by the Eastern Illini Electric Cooperative.

 

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