Do Water Filters Soften Water?

Many people looking for a water treatment solution confuse water filters with water softeners. Both systems aim to improve water quality but actually have different use cases and, in some instances, water softeners may produce less safe water.

In this article, the experts on water filtration at Billi will clarify the distinction and go over some of the disadvantages of soft water so you can make an informed choice for your commercial water system.

Differences Between Water Filtration and Water Softening

Filtration

Water filtration systems are designed to remove contaminants such as chemicals, sediments, and other impurities from water, with many functioning like an ultra-fine sieve for straining tea.

Our advanced 0.2 Micron BWT Fibron X carbon filters use a graded density profile for superior contamination reduction of sediment, chlorine, organic chemicals, parasitic cysts, and heavy metals like lead, providing cleaner, safer drinking water without altering the water’s mineral content.

Water Softening

Water softening, by contrast, addresses water hardness by replacing calcium and magnesium ions with sodium or potassium ions. This process reduces scale buildup in pipes and appliances.

While softened water can extend the life of appliances and reduce soap usage, it does not eliminate a broad range of contaminants like filtration systems do.

Pros and Cons of Softened Water

In areas with “hard water”, softened water can be beneficial in reducing limescale which helps extend the life of plumbing and appliances, such as kettles and washing machines and it may also make skin and hair feel softer. These benefits aren’t without some downsides to consider, however.

Excess sodium intake is a health concern, especially for those with hypertension or cardiovascular issues so the sodium or potassium added during the softening process can be a concern when drinking or cooking with softened water.

Softened water also lacks the essential minerals retained in filtered water, which are important for overall health, and they require regular maintenance and salt replenishment, which can be cumbersome and costly.

Unlike water softeners, filtration systems remove harmful contaminants and any off-putting odours or tastes while not typically altering the mineral balance of the water. This improves and maintains the natural taste and health benefits of drinking water.

Enjoy Healthier Water with Billi

While for most people softened water will be safe to drink, water filters are a more robust solution for most businesses as they remove a wider range of contaminants without adding anything potentially unhealthy.

Billi’s water filtration systems offer further taste benefits with options that provide instant filtered ambient, boiling, chilled, and sparkling water right from your tap. View our full range of dispensers or learn more about our filters today.