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If you're concerned about hard water in your home, you're likely familiar with the typical salt-based water softening systems. However, salt-free water softening offers a more sustainable, efficient solution without the need for removing minerals. At NuvoH2O, we believe in providing eco-friendly and effective options for home water treatment, including salt-free systems that enhance your water without wasting valuable minerals. Learn more and reach out to us for water filtration systems today! 

Chelation: How It Works

Salt-free water softening doesn’t remove minerals from your water. Instead, it uses a process called chelation, which binds calcium and magnesium ions — the minerals responsible for hard water effects — into a harmless form. Chelation reacts with calcium-carbonate in your water and scale, effectively preventing new scale buildup and slowly removing existing scale. The minerals remain in your water, but they no longer contribute to the problems usually associated with hard water, such as clogged pipes and soap scum. 

Minerals Are Beneficial

Contrary to salt-based systems, which strip away all minerals, our approach preserves them. Removing these minerals is not only wasteful but unnecessary. Calcium and magnesium are beneficial to humans, plants, and animals, playing a vital role in various health functions. By opting for salt-free systems, you ensure that your water retains these beneficial elements while still reducing the negative effects of hard water. 

Treating Existing Scale

One of the key advantages of salt-free softening is its ability to treat existing scale buildup. The chelation process reacts with the calcium-carbonate deposits in your pipes and appliances, slowly breaking them down over time. This results in improved efficiency for water heaters and dishwashers, and it can even extend the lifespan of plumbing fixtures. You’ll see cleaner surfaces, and your appliances will run more smoothly without the damaging effects of scale. 

Water Hardness and Misleading Tests

It’s important to note that salt-free water softeners may not lower the hardness level of your water in the way traditional tests measure it. These tests typically detect calcium-citrate — formed through chelation — even though it doesn’t contribute to scale buildup. So while the test results might show high calcium levels, your water won’t have the same hard water issues. 

Salt-free water softening is a modern, environmentally friendly solution that protects your home’s water system without wasting minerals. With chelation, you can enjoy the benefits of mineral-rich water, protect your plumbing from scale buildup, and make a positive impact on your household’s water treatment. Reach out to our team at NuvoH2O to find home water treatment today!