Limescale Prevention at Home

How to Create an Outdoor Water Fountain

2010-04-30T06:11:00.001-07:00

: Image via Wikipedia

A water fountain adds charm to most any setting. Whether used as the focal point in a formal garden or as a whimsical addition to a casual gathering space, an outdoor water fountain is sure to please visitors of all ages. Although there is a wide variety of ready-made outdoor water fountains available for purchase, a much more meaningful and enjoyable feature can be made from an item with sentimental value such as a hand water pump from the family farm or Grandpa’s old whiskey barrel.

To make an outdoor water fountain, the following items are needed:

Piece that will form the basis of the water feature;
Water source, which can be as simple as a garden hose;
Reservoir of adequate size;
Re-circulating pump with ample tubing and a power source; and,
Desired supplemental decor such as plants and rocks.

Create the water fountain by positioning the main feature so that water will flow over or through it and into the reservoir. Place the pump within the reservoir and arrange the tubing to circulate the water. Once all adjustments have been made so that the water is flowing as desired, add plants, rocks and other decor in and around the fountain as the finishing touches.

Maintain the outdoor water fountain, as needed. Drain and clean the reservoir, pump and tubing at least twice each season and ensure that the working components are put into storage prior to the first freeze each fall. With proper care, an outdoor water fountain will provide years of enjoyment.

Originally from: How to create water fountain

Water Treatment Systems – Types and Uses

2010-03-22T06:58:00.000-07:00

Many types of treatment systems are available to address a variety of water issues. Some treatments deal with hard water only while others actually purify contaminated water to make it safe for human consumption. Following are some common water treatment methods and the problems that they correct.

[photo by: darkpatator]

Water Conditioners – Addresses hard water only. Prevents lime scale without adversely affecting the drinkability of the water. Improves the efficiency of soaps. Improves heating efficiency and extends the life of appliances that use water. Water conditioning systems, such as ScaleWatcher, are inexpensive to own and operate.

Water Softeners – Also prevents lime scale but water may not be suitable for drinking. Water softening systems are expensive to own and operate, and cumbersome to maintain.

Activated Carbon (AC) Water Filters – Removes organic contaminants and chlorine but does not filter out microbes or soften water. May remove heavy metals, depending on the system.

Ultraviolet (UV) Water Filters – Kills but does not remove most bacteria and viruses. Also does not remove other contaminants.

Water Distiller – Produces nearly pure water but at an extremely slow rate and high running cost.

Reverse Osmosis – Removes salts and mineral as well as other causes of unhealthy or unappealing water. Most of the water that enters the system is wasted, however, and the storage unit must be disinfected regularly to prevent bacterial growth.

The appropriate type of water treatment depends upon the type of problem to be corrected. To purify water for drinking, a combination of methods may be required. To treat simple hard water, however, a water conditioner is usually all that is needed.

Water Softeners Are Necessary For Health Today

2010-02-15T05:28:00.000-08:00

Image by Getty Images via Daylife

When is water considered hard? and when is it considered soft? Technically when water possesses too much concentration of calcium and magnesium it is called hard water. If and when calcium and magnesium dissolves the degree of the water's hardness increases. Hard water needs to be softened as they clog pipes and dissolves soap less easily. To treat hard water it goes through a process called water softening where in water would pass through a bed of resin wherein an exchange of positively and negatively charged ions occurs. The process of water softening is facilitated through the use of water softener, a unit designed to remove the chemicals that make the water hard.

Water softeners are classified into five categories: manual; semi-automatic; automatic; demand initiated regeneration (DIR); and off-site regeneration. Manual Water Softeners has its own set of variations but all of them need the operator to open and close the valves to control, rate and time length of back flushing and to control the frequency. Semi-automatic water softeners would only require the operator to push the button and the machine will control and complete the recharging process. Automatic softener are the most common softeners being used, the unit is equipped with a timer that initiates the recharging and all the steps in the process. All the operator has to do is add salt and set the timer. Demand initiated regeneration functions and automatically responds to the demand for soft water. It has two softening tanks and one brine tank, when one is softening the other tank is recharging.

Like every other technology, the use of water softeners does have its own advantages and disadvantages. Let us begin with the advantages; the use of softeners prolong the life span of appliances including washing machine, dishwasher and water heater; using softened water in washing clothes results in a softer feeling clothes; using softeners results in the reduction of water spotting. However the use of softened water in watering house plants, gardens and lawns is not advisable because softened water has strong sodium content; there could be possible health risks from the intake of sodium laden water; and it is not recommended for use in evaporative coolers and steam irons.

What most people would like to know is how long these water softeners would last, given the amount the buyer would spend; the unit has to be of top quality. With proper care and maintenance water softeners could very well last for a couple of years.

By: Tai Pham

Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com

Isopure Water specializes in reverse osmosis and other drinking water filtration equipment since 2005. We also have an expertise in specialty media filtration when dealing with harsh water conditions such as water hardness, high iron or hydrogen sulfide levels, and aquarium water purification.

Advantages Of Using Water Conditioner

2010-01-12T05:14:00.000-08:00

Tap water is sometimes called hard water. This is due to the high concentrations of contaminants and minerals in the water. A water conditioner works by changing the process of crystallization of calcium and magnesium. This changes the charge of the mineral molecules present in the water. These hard mineral molecules will then “stick” less to things it comes in contact with. This prevents mineral build up in your pipes, faucets and bath fixtures. The following are more advantages that you can get when you use a water conditioner in your house.

The benefits of having a water conditioner will not immediately show up as soon as you are done with the installation of the device. Factors that can affect the efficiency of this device are:
• Quantity of water stored – Houses with water tanks has a tendency to accumulate more of the mineral contaminants. This will take more time to soften the hard water.
• Degree of mineral saturation – The amount of water contaminants can also be a factor. It will naturally take longer to soften the water if there are many minerals present in it.
• Water consumption – The amount of consumed water will also affect the speed of the softening of your tap water. More water consumed means more water that needs to pass through the water conditioner.
• Severity of a lime scale buildup – Limescale buildup is the result of ignored water use. The more limescale present in the pipeline, the harder it will be to clean it.
In general, the benefits such as conditioners and shampoos will rinse easily, cleaning with water will be more effective and washing machines will need less soaps and detergents. This will be noticed immediately after 1 to 4 weeks after the installation of the device. In addition, your hair and skin will feel softer and healthier during this time.

Just after 4 weeks, the limescale build up present in your pipeline and faucets will begin to loosen. This will make them easier to remove with just scrubbing. Furthermore, it will also prevent the further accumulation of limescale. This will then lead to an increase in the water flow.

In the long term, this device can help prolong the life expectancy of your water appliances. It will also reduce the maintenance cost of home appliances that utilize water in its functions. The water from the faucet itself will be milder enough to be used on the skin of babies. The water conditioner can also save you money from the fuel cost of water heating appliances. In addition, since you are going to be using less water in your cleaning activities, you can also save up on water consumption.

With these many advantages, it advisable that you start installing your own water conditioner. It can lessen your expenses and help create a naturally healthy water for your family. Most people think that this is just an extra expense. However, this device is in fact a good investment that will do you good in the future.

By: Julia Jamie

Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com

Matt Monroy is the author of this article on Water Conditioner. Find more information about Electric Water Softener here.

Water in the Winter Garden

2009-12-17T04:02:00.000-08:00

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Adequate water in the garden is essential all year-round, even during the coldest months of winter. Although plants and trees may be dormant above ground, root systems continue to grow and develop despite frigid temperatures. Unless sufficient rain has fallen, supplemental watering is required. During winter, meet your garden’s various watering needs to ensure that plants stay healthy until warmer weather arrives.

Grasses and Other Plants

During winter, grasses and other plants need about 2.5 cm of water 2-4 times each month. Use a rain gauge to monitor the amount of rainfall and supplement, as needed. Do not water the lawn or garden when it is freezing. To prevent damage to plants, avoid spraying bare branches or foliage and water just at the ground level.

Trees

Like other plants, trees also need water during winter. Generally, established trees need 38 litres of water per 2.5 cm of trunk diameter 1-2 times each month during the winter. To remain healthy and thrive, newly planted trees usually require more moisture than established trees, and drought tolerant trees will need less. Be sure to water trees slowly to ensure adequate saturation of the soil and to prevent water run-off.

Remember the Birds

It is common in winter to put out feed for wild birds. In addition to food, these birds also need fresh water. In times of extreme cold, the usual sources of water for birds may be absent or frozen. When feeding birds during the winter months, be sure to regularly supply fresh water, as well.

What Exactly Are Water Softeners?

2009-11-20T00:32:00.000-08:00

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Water softeners transform hard water into the so-called soft water. Reducing its mineral contents does the transformation. Hard water mainly contains calcium and magnesium metal, and sometimes bicarbonates and sulfates. Soft water, on the other hand, is the type of water with none or little content of the mentioned minerals.

A water softener is used in decreasing the calcium, magnesium, and in some cases manganese and ferrous iron dissolved in hard water. The fact is water softener is a system for transforming chemically hard water into a soft water.
Softeners replace the calcium and magnesium contents in hard water by sodium. Sodium does not accumulate in pipes and also does not react to soap. This means hard water effects are eliminated.

The principle of the water softener system is easy to understand. Hard water is allowed to enter the water softener. The water softener contains a layer of plastic beads and in some instances, the material used is called Zeolite. The layer of materials inside the water softener is soaked with sodium ions. Sodium is exchanged with the contents of the hard water, calcium, and magnesium. When water comes out of the softener, the water is said to be of the soft water type.

At a point in time, the plastic beads or Zeolite layer will be saturated with calcium and magnesium ions only. Regeneration process follows wherein water is mixed with high sodium content producing strong brine. Sodium ions again replace calcium and magnesium ions, which eventually are washed down the drain.

The ordinary cooking salt is cheap. The salt or sodium chloride is the source of sodium for water softeners. Large quantity of salt costs little. It is a good source for sodium used in water softener.

Utilized in a water softener system are a number of cylindrical tanks and large square containers. The tanks are used as storage of already treated water and the container is for the salt used in the process. The number of tanks depends on the output and the system itself.

When water softener is installed for domestic or household purpose, the water softener system is situated at the main entrance of the house plumbing system. In this manner of installation, all the water entering the house is already treated.

There are two main types of water softener systems. One is the electric single tank softener. This type, besides being costly, is a system with some setbacks. Soft water supply may run out since the system uses a single tank. It also may cause inconvenience because this type needs high pressure. Night hours bring high pressure. Noise caused by running motors is not welcome at these hours.
The hydraulic twin tank softener is the other softener type. This type ensures a continued supply of soft water for the household. The two tanks do the softening and regeneration processes alternatively. This way, there will be no chance of running out of soft water supply.

Salt containers should be refilled regularly. Most water softeners do not have salt level indicator; it is a wise decision to check salt level periodically to avoid contamination of water tanks. The water softeners operate continuously even without salt, which may result in tank contamination.

Salt-based water softener systems are not effective one hundred per cent. Only 75 per cent of the calcium and magnesium water content is removed. The salt-based softener also releases to the environment huge amount of lime brine.
A newly developed water softener system is digital. The Soo~Soft Digital Electronic Water Softening System is a revolutionary innovation in water softening procedures. It is environmentally friendly and as effective as a salt-type water softener.

By: Nayan Choure

Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com

For more information on Water Softeners and Water Softeners in Alabama.Please visit our website.

Regular Water Softener - A Waste Of Money?

2009-10-20T00:20:00.000-07:00

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Millions of people are dealing with hard water problems. It's so common problem that sometime we are not even taking care of it. Or just using a regular water softener and have hope that it will work. Usually it doesn't and our money are just like putted in the garbage. Why not change that?

If you are looking for a solution for your limescale and hard water problem there is no point using the regular water softener. They are not working properly and money that we've spent on it can not be called a "well invested' one. So how to deal with this problem and why does a conventional methods doesn't work?

Having limescale is quite huge problem and in itself is a wasted money. The scale that deposits on the pipes is blocking them and when the water is heated a bigger amount of this heat is needed than in unclogged pipes. That means bigger bills. What's more scale can deposit on washing machines supplies, dishwashers and may cause the damages of any systems and machines in which water is heated. That's also money that is spent on repairing those supplies.

For those problems most of people are buying salt using softener or magnetic water softener. They are working by replacing the calcium and magnesium in the water with sodium. Or treating water with a strong magnetic field. Those are the regular methods. But they have serious disadvantages and that's why they are called a wasting money methods. First, sodium is unhealthy in big amounts, second, refiling regularly softener with salt might be expensive, third, there is have to be more than one devices bought to work properly (still expensive), fourth, needs good conditions to work.

But fortunately there is one more solution for this problem. This is an electronic water softener. That kind of water treatment is most efficient. Why? This type of water conditioner is a type that is descaling the pipes from the scale that has deposited earlier than the device was installed. It's dealing with existing scale. That kind of water treatment system works similarly to a magnetic one but sends much stronger signal, remains water treated for a few days, reducing the amount of scale and one unit might be used in whole house.

Of course, you can try first two methods on your own home, apartment. But none can tell you that it will work correctly. When using an electronic device there is almost 100% sure that it will help to deal with the limescale that is depositing and the scale that has deposited a months before. That's why you should deal with your hard water problems by using an electronic descaler. And forget about the regular one that are wasting your money.

By: michal costaminnego

Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com

Deal with your hard water and limescale problems by using best water treatment system.

What Are The Affects of Hard Water on Your Garden?

2009-09-16T03:32:00.000-07:00

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For those who enjoy a healthy, thriving garden, hard water with its overabundance of calcium and magnesium could be hurting your plants and flowers. The deposits of salts from these minerals build up, decreasing the effectiveness of water heating systems and restricting water flow. In addition, without water treatment, this problem can wreak havoc in your yard. Life in the garden can certainly suffer from the ill effects of hard water.

According to University of Connecticut professor of horticulture George Elliot, hard water "can have a significant effect on plants, especially those growing in containers." He explains that calcium and magnesium are two of the elements in limestone. Therefore, when a lawn or garden is watered, deposits of lime that affect the soil's pH are left behind. White residue can form on leaves, fading their colour from green to an ashen yellow. The high pH level can cause an iron deficiency that won't necessarily kill your plants. However, plants will lose their vitality and appear fragile and unhealthy.

Hard water affects not only the plant life, but also the tools you use to care for your garden. Similar to the household pipes, irrigations systems, hoses and sprinkles can experience a build up of the mineral salts from hard water. Over time, replacing these items can be costly and frustrating. One solution is water treatment, and a water softener can alleviate this problem. You're welcome to review Scalewatcher's answer to this problem to get some ideas about how an electronic water conditioner can improve the life, vigour and appearance of your garden.

Water treatment system will make your hard water problems disappear.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Matthew_Sorrow

Brewing Away Taste - Hard Water Affects Coffee and Tea

2009-09-16T03:30:00.000-07:00

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Home-brewed coffee and tea, that morning cup or afternoon break, are simple pleasures of life. However, when brewed in hard water, these beverages can lose their taste and appeal. Consider the popularity of coffee and tea. In 2007 alone, the British Coffee Association estimates that £720 million was spent on coffee, with approximately 70 millions cups enjoyed each day. More than twice as much tea is consumed, 165 million cups daily, according to the UK Tea Council. It's clear that people love these beverages. However, many don't realize the affects of hard water.

Although non toxic, hard water results in coffee with traces of bitterness. Even people who enjoy a strong cup of coffee still want a rich, bold flavour that is lost with hard-water brewing. Green teas don't fare well at all, losing their delicate flavours. One can double the amount of tea leaves to try to get back the taste. Another remedy can be adding milk, sugar or flavour extracts to alleviate the sharp undertones and aftertaste.

Another way to get back the flavour is to brew these drinks with bottled water. It's an added expense that doesn't solve hard water problems, but it can give you the flavour you want. Treating this problem with a water softener reduces the scale left in pipes, kettles and coffee makers. (You can find on the web some information about water treatment systems that could prove helpful if you're looking for a household solution to hard water.) A water softener can address the overall problem in households and allow you to brew at home without jeopardising flavour and satisfaction.

Are you interested which are the hard water areas? Visit the Scalewatcher website to know if you have hard water at your home.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Matthew_Sorrow

Hard Water in the Bath

2009-06-16T05:24:00.000-07:00

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Hard water can cause problems throughout the home. If severe enough, it leads to the chemical salt residues clogging faucets, clothes and dishwashers, and refrigerator icemakers. One of the most annoying manifestations of hard water, though, is the ugly deposits it leaves on your bathroom fixtures.

Sinks, tubs, and toilet bowls, in hard water locales, eventually accumulate ugly stains and deposits that require special attention. Commercial cleansers will do the job, but most of them are loaded with chemicals that can poison the environment. In most cases safe, inexpensive, and readily available household products are a more responsible solution.

White vinegar’s cleaning powers approach the legendary—and taking care of hard water stains is one more to add to the list. For most stains, spray the toilet, sink, or tub stain liberally with pure vinegar and let sit for a few minutes. If the stains are heavy repeat the spray and wait a few minutes longer. A little vigorous wiping or brushing should then remove the stain. For extra stubborn stains, make a paste of vinegar and baking soda and apply with a sponge. This will remove even the heaviest stains without damaging the porcelain finish.

Hard water build-up on shower doors is another vexing bathroom problem. The ideal solution to this problem is prevention. Wiping the door dry using an alcohol dampened cloth will prevent build-up. A daily wipe-down is best, but weekly will probably prevent heavy build-up. If the build-up is already severe, you might need to use a commercial product for the initial cleaning. Many people recommend using the soft scrubbing creams developed for cleaning glass stove tops. Others have had good success using a vigorous polishing with lemon oil.

Article comes from Home and Garden Tips Blog

10 Things You Need To Know About Dry Itchy Skin

2009-05-08T03:00:00.000-07:00

Itchy, red, flaky skin is no fun. When your skin is in bad health, it’s hard to focus on anything else. Because skin is the body's largest organ, your general health can be affected by its condition. When it’s shredded and bleeding from raking it with your fingernails, you expose yourself to all sorts of topical infections that can eventually affect other biological systems.

The good news is that you can alleviate dry itchy skin by knowing the causes and then by changing your routine accordingly.

1. Long, hot showers and baths. Soaking in hot tubs and lingering under a hot shower actually strips your skin of the natural oils that protect it.

What you can do: Opt for showers over baths, and use lukewarm water, not hot. Wash quickly without lingering. When toweling off, pat your skin (don't rub) then apply moisturizer immediately.

2. Medications: Itchy skin can be a side effect of certain medications, like retinoids which treat acne, antihistamines for allergies, and diuretics for high blood pressure.

What you can do: If you notice the onset of dry skin after starting a new medication, tell your doctor, who can alter the dosage or possibly prescribe another drug.

3. Sun exposure: Prolonged exposure to the sun can cause many unwelcome skin changes including dryness, wrinkles, lowered immunity against skin infections and skin cancer.

What you can do: Always use sunscreen with a SPF of 15 or higher. Apply approximately 1 ounce to cover all sun-exposed skin. Cloudy day? Reach for the sunscreen anyways. Skin-damaging ultraviolet light can penetrate clouds, fog, even snow.

4. Harsh, antibacterial soaps that create lots of lather. They also strip skin of natural oils. Many people have the tendency to use lots of soap and scrub every inch of their body.

What you can do: Look for a mild, fragrance-free soap cleanser. Also, unless you’ve been outside digging a ditch, you probably aren’t really that dirty. The only parts that need soap are face, hands, feet, groin and underarms. The rest can usually be rinsed with warm water.

5. Moisturizing mistakes. Applying moisturizer after you’re completely dried off from the shower won’t do much good. And while scents like Coconut Lime Verbena and Wild Honeysuckle might do wonders for your sense of smell, they won’t do much to alleviate winter itch.

What you can do: The best lotions for skin are mild, fragrance-free with no perfumes. Have it ready to apply as soon as you get out of the shower. You shouldn’t be sopping wet; pat dry first, then apply cream or lotion.

6. Dry Air: While cold, winter air certainly contributes to winter itch, the warm air indoors is even more problematic.

What you can do: Turn down the thermostat a few degrees and put a humidifier in rooms where you spend most of your time. When outdoors, bundle up from head to toe. Long, knee-socks which will help protect legs from cold air that swoops up under your pant legs.

7. Wool and other itchy fabrics. That new wool sweater may look great, but if it’s making you itch, is it worth it? Not if you have severely dry itchy skin.

What you can do: When you try on clothing, pay attention to how it feels on your skin. If it scratches you in the store, it’ll scratch you later. Cashmere and cotton are the best choices if you are experiencing dry skin.

8. Genetics: Your dry itchy skin could be the result of genetics. Inherited conditions include ‘ichthyosis’ (fish-scale skin), ‘xerosis’, ‘asteatosis’ or ‘acquired ichthyosis’. The dry areas may result in ‘dermatitis’ in which the skin becomes red and itchy.

What you can do: In addition to the aforementioned tips, apply a super thick emollient liberally and often, particularly after bathing, and when itchy. If the condition worsens, see your doctor.

9. Hormonal changes: The powerhouse hormone estrogen stimulates production of skin-smoothing collagen and oils. That's why, as menopause approaches and estrogen production diminishes, dry itchy skin becomes very common.

What you can do: In addition to the aforementioned tips, eat a diet that’s rich in essential fatty acids -- like the omega-3s found in sardines, soy, safflower oil, flax, salmon, walnuts, and fortified eggs. A diet short of these body-boosting fats can leave skin dry, itchy, and prone to acne. You can also keep skin hydrated by drinking lots of water. According to The Mayo Clinic, there are no hard and fast rules about how much is enough; but a good guideline is the “8 x 8 rule”: eight 8 oz. glasses per day.

10. Smoking: Tobacco smoke contains roughly 4,000 chemicals, many of which are carcinogenic. In addition to damaging lungs and eventually, other organs, you also expose your skin to toxic chemicals which trigger oxidation. This results in free radicals which literally attack skin cells, resulting in the yellowed, craggy dry skin associated with smokers.

What you can do: Do everything in your power to quit. Meanwhile, exercise will improve circulation and the distribution of oxygen and nutrients. Also, load up on Vitamin C and other antioxidants to remove or minimize the cause of cellular damage.

By: Jenny Gaglione

Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com

Jenny Gaglione is a Cleveland, Ohio writer specializing in healthcare topics. She is married with 2 children and is in her early 40s. Jenny writes about anti-aging issues at www.antiagingreport.org/. Visit the web site for new information and discount offers on top quality anti-aging skincare products.

Hard Water Spots On Your Windows

2009-05-08T02:53:00.000-07:00

Image by cobalt123 via Flickr

The two most common minerals that cause the water spots on your windows are known as calcium and lime scale. As fresh rain water passes through the ground, calcium, lime and many other minerals are naturally dissolved into the water. The ground water is then tapped into for irrigation and drinking. When the hard ground water comes in contact with a window, such as through a sprinkler, it will eventually evaporate leaving the minerals behind. Each time this happens a new layer of mineral deposits are accumulated resulting in a hard, crusty shell that is nearly impossible to remove.

Sprinklers are the most common reason for hard water spots to form on windows. This is usually an easy fix. Adjust the position of the sprinkler head so that it doesn’t continuously hit your windows. Sometimes the water pressure on the system can be adjusted as well.

Often the wind blowing the sprinkler water up onto the glass can be the problem. In this case you will want to clean off any existing build up and then apply a special coating to the glass. Glass coating products coat the surface of the glass, which creates a protective barrier. This barrier will not prevent the calcium from sticking, but it will prevent it from becoming permanently attached. The mineral build up will then wipe off with ease.

If you decide to wash the building with a garden hose or power washer, make sure you use a window squeegee to remove the water before it has a chance to evaporate.

In the window cleaning industry, mineral deposits are defined in three stages. Each stage determines the amount of build up, ease of removal, and possible damage that may be found.

Stage one consists of 1-2 light coatings of deposit. This can be easily wiped or rubbed off with a rag or sponge using regular soap and water. At this time no damage has been detected.

Stage two is when the deposits have built up to the point where they have a white but still transparent look. You can see tiny scales starting to form on the glass. At this point, it may be difficult (but not impossible) to remove with normal scrubbing. A window scraper and acid base or light abrasive glass cleaner may be needed to completely remove the scales. Still, no permanent damage has been detected.

Stage three is when the deposits have built up over a long period of time and create thick, hard, scaly shell. With this amount of build up and time, the deposits may etch into the pores of the glass, and can be baked on by the sun or both. You will know the damage has taken place when the window scraper or cleaners will not remove the scale build up. At this point, the window will have to be buffed out using a special buffer, with abrasive window buffing pads. This process should be carried out by a professional to avoid additional damage to the glass.

Tip: When using any cleaners or tools on glass, always follow the directions and test in a corner first. Also, seal the surrounding surfaces with plastic to prevent further damage.

By: Ray Croskrey

Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com

To learn more free tips on window cleaning and hard water deposits on windows, please visit do-it-yourself-window-cleaning-tips.com/

Total Hardness And Water Quality

2009-05-08T02:45:00.000-07:00

Image by Khans' via Flickr

Most adults have learned that water can be soft or hard. They have learned, too, that there is a connection between total hardness and water quality. Hard water reduces the power of your soap. In fact, hard water is often detected by noting the amount of soap required to form lather. Hard water may build up in hot water pipes and appliances, producing limescale.

Hard Water Defined

Hard water is water that contains high levels of dissolved calcium, magnesium, and other mineral salts such as iron. The greater the amount of dissolved minerals in the water, the harder it is.

Total hardness is measured in grains per gallon (gpg) or parts per million (ppm). If water contains less than 3.5 gpg, it is considered soft water. If it contains more than 7 gpg, it is considered hard water. The American Society of Engineers' water hardness classification table breaks it down this way.

* Soft: 0 to 3.5 gpg – 0 to 60 ppm
* Moderate: 3.6 to 7 gpg – 61 to 120 ppm
* Hard: 7.1 to 10.5 gpg – 121 to 180 ppm
* Very Hard: More than 10.5 gpg – more than 180 ppm

Making the Connection

Total hardness and water quality are connected. Hard water is safe for drinking, cooking, and other household uses, but it can cause problems.

One way in which total hardness and water quality are connected is the effect of such water on household plumbing. Total hardness means a build-up of scales inside pipes, especially those carrying hot water.

Total hardness and water quality are also connected in their effect on appliances that use water. Dishwashers and washing machines can decrease in cleaning and laundering ability. Water heaters can become less efficient. Refrigerators that dispense water can become clogged.

Aesthetically, total hardness and water quality are connected in those white, chalky deposits that accumulate on tubs, sinks, and cookware.

U.S. Water Quality

According to the 1997 National Water Quality Survey, 1 of 5 people surveyed in the U.S. is dissatisfied with the water quality in his or her home. This is related to the fact given by the U.S. Geological Survey: that 85 percent of the U.S. has hard water. Many people install water softeners in their homes to improve water quality.

Determining Water Quality

You can have your water quality tested if you are moving into a new area or a new home. If you have been living in the same home for a while, you will know if your water is hard by looking for these 7 signs:

1. You have difficulty working up lather from a bar of soap.

2. Your soaps and detergents don't seem to clean well – you have dingy laundry in spite of your efforts to get it clean.

3. In the shower or bath, your soap leaves a film on your body and hair – you have dry skin and dull, limp hair.

4. You have to battle soap scum on bathtubs, shower tiles and doors, basins, and fixtures.

5. You see an increasing buildup of scale on your cookware such as tea kettle, coffee maker, and pasta pot. Your plumbing also contains scale.

6. Clogged pipes or appliances mean that water flow is reduced.

7. Your water heating costs are increasing due to scale buildup and mineral deposits, and you have to replace hot water heating elements more often.

Improving Water Quality

Treatment can improve water quality. You may use electromagnetic water conditioners, water filters, or water softeners.

Electromagnetic water conditioners improve water quality by sending water through a magnetic field. As the water passes between the magnets, its calcium and magnesium ions lose their scale-causing properties. Studies show that this relatively new invention does not technically soften water, but water quality is improved in that it no longer causes buildup of scales. Clothing also lasts longer, which is a definite increase in water quality.

Water filters are a second option for improving water quality, especially drinking water. Water filters can provide healthy drinking water by removing chlorine and other contaminants contained in water. Water filters can soften water, but they will not prevent scale buildup in pipes and water heaters.

Water softeners are a common way of improving water quality, and come in two types: chemical and mechanical. The water produced by chemical water softeners is not acceptable drinking water. Packaged chemicals are added directly to improve water quality in laundering and bathing, and are effective both in protecting clothing and guarding against dry skin and hair. Mechanical water softeners installed in your home will replace dissolved calcium and magnesium salts with sodium. This water is also not acceptable for drinking, especially by those who have hypertension. The water quality is greatly improved, however, for other uses. Lime scale is prevented; water heaters function efficiently; and laundered clothing is both cleaner and longer-lasting.

Soft Water

On the other end of the spectrum, total hardness and water quality are a benefit when that hardness level is below 3.5 gpg or 60 ppm. Soft water allows you to use less shampoo and soap, yet have shinier hair and softer skin. Soft water requires less soap or detergent in shower, laundry, kitchen, and household cleaning chores. It helps close look cleaner and last longer. It keeps water-using appliances and plumbing from wearing out as fast. Soft water keeps dishes and eating utensils spot-free, and extends the life of tea kettles and other cookware. Soft water reduces cleaning time by eliminating soap scum and buildup of scales.

Total hardness and water quality are closely connected, and you may find it worthwhile to use a water treatment system to improve your water quality – especially your drinking water.

By: Anna Hart

Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com

©2007, Anna Hart. Anna Hart invites you to read more of her articles about water quality at www.healthydrinkingwaterblog.com. Anna has also posted information on that site about salt water. If you want to learn why you should not drink water softened with sodium, you won’t want to miss her article on that subject.

Home Financial Tips: How to reduce bills?

2009-04-22T05:41:00.000-07:00

When many countries are dealing with a crisis most regular people must deal with their own financial problems. They are interested in how to spend less money for the same things or they are cutting budgets for entertainment. But there is a solution that is so much easier and more pleasant - it's called 'bills reduction'.

To make it more easier let's divide the bills into the four most popular groups like: energy, telephone bills, heating and water. Maybe this will help us find one or two general clues.

1. Energy. The easiest way to save money on energy is to wake up and go to sleep early (what might be problematic sometimes especially during the winter time). This solution is simple and saves us a lot of energy. Especially when the whole family decides to do that.

A more conventional way might be looking closer on the electrical supply that we are using - and sometimes not conscious - in our house. For example the tv and computer monitor that are switched on a stand by position by night are generating energy.

Of course investing in bulbs that saves energy is also worth doing - so as using a full loaded washing machine and dishwasher. It's very important to change those elements in our home cause that's mindless spent money.

2. Telephone. The easiest way to reduce the bills for telephone is to look carefully on the agreement that we have with our supplier. Most of the agreements were signed many years ago and might have higher rates than they are now.

Of course we can do something more radical - like for example talk to our children to spend less time on the phone. But this solution might be hard to do and we can have a good mood ruined in our house.

3. Water. Bills for water usually cost us the most. That's because of importance of water and because of our bad habits. Like for example having baths everyday and tapping water while brushing the teeth. Replacing those habits with shower and turning off the tap might appear a gold mine.

The things that you can also do is to fix the dripping taps, if it's necessary, use the rain water to water the plants and analyze the water metres everyday to check which activities are using most water.

4. Heating. Reduce bills for heating might be more expensive than the other once. Usually the reason of higher bills is the limescale that deposits on our pipes. It's reason is hard water. That's why we usually need to use a water softener that will deal with this problem.

It sounds like a big investment but when we think about it for a while we decide that hard water is also expensive for another reasons - it makes our dishwashers, washing machines and other supplies break easier. And also is bad for our health what means spending money on medication.

The general clue is that the simplest solutions are the best. There are some easy ways that don't cost anything and can save us a lot of money. Some solutions might be more expensive of course but are still easy and in a longer period give us more money. With only small effort we can spend more money for the things that you like the most.

If you are interested in installing a water softener at your home don't hesitate. It will make you and your water treatment system healthier.

Regular Water Softener - A Waste of Money?

2009-04-22T05:36:00.000-07:00

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5 ideas how to deal with hard water problems

2009-04-22T05:34:00.000-07:00

Stains on glasses, clocked pipes, deposit in kettle, washing machine and dishwasher changed every year? All these items are results of having hard water at home. How to deal with that?

There are many solutions to deal with this problem.

1.Most simple solution is to ignore the problem. Of course if you have to much money they are also a better ways to spend them than paying hire bills for hot water or for a new dishwasher.

2. If you decide not to ignore it you can do something with the effects of hard water problems. For example pour a little bit of vinegar into the kettle and boil the water to clean it from the limescale deposit. Also buy a sort of detergent to washing machines.

3.When you get tired of buying those useful but not working so efficiently 'gadgets' you can decide on having a special appliance which is more effecttive solution. It might be a water softener, that works by replacing the calcium and magnesium in the water with sodium.

4.Althought the above solution isn't totally worth of recommendation. Cause sodium in a high level isn't healthy, the appliance have to be refilled with salt, and it is relatively expensive. An alternative for that kind of device might be probably magnetic conditioner that treats water with a strong magnetic field. As a result, the chemical complexes, that could break down, remains in suspension and don't form crusts on the surface.

5.But again – this method has its weaker sides. To have benefits from it you have to install not only one device but few of them. And it is working only partially in good conditions like ideal flow of water. An alternative to all of those methods might be such device as Scalewatcher. It works similarly to other saltless water softeners but sends much stronger signal, remains water treated for a few days, reducing the amount of scale. Big improvement of this descaler is that only one unit works for a whole house.

Of course it's your choice which solution to choose for hard water problems – something to deal with the problem once and for all or just useless half-measures, that will only cost you additional money.

Learn How To Choose Water Softener

2009-03-16T07:18:00.000-07:00

First of all, it all depends on the quality of renewable control valve.

The control valve is the core of the water Softener!According to the different control valve,Softener machine can be divided into automatic and semi-automatic type.All of the automatic type of water Softener are consumes the electricity,and they also divides into the time and the current taye,but their characteristic each has his good points.

The time taye of water softener is refers to according to the hypothesis time carries on the regeneration,the merit is the time of regeneration does not affect the water's using.The shortcoming is no matter water you used,even only little, whether needs to regenerate, it'll automatically regenerates to the time!

The current taye of water softener is carries on the regeneration according to the hypothesis discharge of water. The merit is regenerates only at the time when it should to do,the shortcoming is when the regeneration is very possible is your water used time!

In addition, the automatic controller soft hydraulic engine regenerates when produces the waste water quantity is small, consumes the salty quantity to be small, may momentarily regenerate the conditioning; The semiautomatic control valve consumes the salt to be huge, the waste water are huge.

Next,you must judge the quality of the softened resin.The resin in your water softener is a keypoint to your water softener's quality.The resin should achieve the food grade, cannot use the technical grade!!

Third,check the degree of hardness of your softened water,The lower would be better,Generally only the water's degree of hardness reduces to 70 milligrams/liter can be called the soft water.The water which processed after a good water softener,the hardness of water may reduce to 17 milligrams/liters, even more lower!Ordinary Water we used,its degree of hardness is probably in each liter includes 200 milligram, 300 milligram or 500 milligram organic matter.

Finally,we know that it's very importan to choose a good water softener!It's for health of all of your family,no joking!!

You Can Find Out About Softener Water Solutions at http://www.net4shops.com

By: jackjiang

Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com

www.net4shops.com

How To Install A Water Softener

2009-03-16T07:13:00.000-07:00

Image by TimPerdue via Flickr

You've researched and purchased a water softener, the next step is to learn how to install a water softener. In order to be sure that the machine that you've spent your time researching and money purchasing works properly, you must know how to install it properly.

Your water softener should have come with installation instructions and these will be important to pay attention to. Each water softener will have their own specifics when it comes to their actual installation, but there are several aspects of water softener installation that are common to all types.

The location that you choose for your water softener should be given much consideration. If the tank is kept indoors it is very important that it be kept in a dry area that does not have much fluctuation in temperatures. If the water softener that you've chosen is two tanks be sure that two are close together and the brine tank is the one that is most accessible.

That is the one that you will need to refill so you'll be able to get to it when necessary. If your tank will be installed outdoors it will need to be located in an area that is away from the direct sunlight. Many tanks can be purchased with a jacket that will protect the unit from the sunlight and other inclement weather.

In addition to the electricity outlet location, which needs to be less than 50 feet from the water softener unit, you will also need to have a drain in the vicinity that is at least 1 1/2 inches in diameter. You may use tubing to extend to a drain that is slightly out of the way. You may choose flexible tubing or a more rigid PVC tube. Either one should extend to the drain so that the backwash will be directed to that drain and not elsewhere.

If your media is not installed in your tank prior to installation, you will have to do this step as well. The way you install this will depend upon the size of your tank and whether or not your tank has a turbulator. A larger tank of 64,000 grains or a tank that does not have a turbulator will require a gravel underbed.

Once the gravel is in place you will be able to follow the directions and install the media in the tank. Following this you will be able to install the bypass valve and then the inlet outlet water connections according to the included instructions.

The next step in the water softener installation process will be to take the brine tubing and connect the water softener control valve and the brine tank. Once this tubing is in place you can connect the brine tank overflow. You can do this by attaching the 5/8'' tubing from the brine tank and run it to the drain.

Then you need to program the control that will be responsible for softening the water correctly. Run the backwash cycle and look for leaks and tighten any loose fittings. Watch the tank as it runs through a cycle of water to be sure that everything works correctly.

The preceding instructions are very general and should only be applied in combination with the instructions that have come with your unit. Learning how to install a water softener doesn't have to be difficult. In no time you'll have a working unit and will not have to deal with the expense or hassles of having someone else install your unit.

By: TommyM

Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com

For a more detailed step-by-step water softener installation and related articles visit water softener reviews website.

Water Softener – To Keep Your Family Healthy

2009-03-16T07:10:00.000-07:00

Make Your Water Clean And Free From Harmful Substances

Water filtration certainly removes the impurities from water through filtering and capturing them prior to the water is taken in. Find out various types of water filtration filters…

Water is a very essential element of all the nature creatures. As for person, water concentration is sixty to seventy percent of the body weight. All the premeditated organs, blood, and even blood have water.

That is why, one must be more concerned regarding the water we consume and shower in. Nowadays water is more polluted including that one which we receive via pipes flowing in our house. The majority of people are not concerned how safe and pure their water is. Water, which enters in your homes via pipes, contains contaminants such as mud, rock particles, and even various types of chemicals.

This is the reason why people get ill from cancer. Also, if you will shower from this water, its chemicals and contagious elements can cause hair, skin dryness, and thus, fasten the process of aging.

This unpurified water may also contains toxins and heavy metals; when your organism are exposed to such substances for a very long time it can cause steady upsurge of toxins that can cause different diseases.

There are two different methods in order to clean and treat water. The most famous and the economical method is by filtering the water. Water filtration removes the impurities from water through filtering and capturing them prior to the water is taken in.

Another method of water filtration is through the reverse osmosis system. However, water filtration is the most familiar and common method of water filtration/ treatment thus, it is very essential to consider the water filtration options at the time of its deployment. The various types of water filtration filters are:

• Carbon water filtration filters: These are the filters that are commonly used to reduce the chlorine level from water, color, organics, tannin and even foul smell and taste from the water

• Neutralizing water filtration filters: The neutralizing water filtration filters are completely different from the carbon filters as the neutralizing filters are used the problem is the low pH water.

• Multi media depth water filtration filters: These are another type of water filtration filters, which contains more then two water filtering media and then exasperate underneath it.

• Sediment water filtration filters: The sediment water filtration filters are highly used at the time when cloudy, dirty water is problematic.

• Iron water filtration filter: Last but not the least is the ion water filtration filter. This filter must be used for water filtration in the situations where the water has determined that it is the appropriate water filtration filter to use.

It is very important to think various different alternatives for the treatment of water. If the water filtration system is the correct way for you, ensuing that every water outlet is filtered is also something that should be taklen seriously.

If a water filteration filter is just used at the sink, then the water which is coming from the tap or the shower might still contain some kind of contamination. Fortuntaley for the customers there are various different kinds of water filtartion filters are available in the market to select from. Water filtration filters for the sink, for the shower or even for the fridge, it is all probable with the water filtration filters.

By: Thomas20 Atkinson20

Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com

Thomas Atkinson is author of this article on Water system. Find more information about water softener here.

How Can Water Treatment Equipment Save You Money And Keep You Healthy

2009-03-16T07:07:00.000-07:00

These days, more and more people are realizing the need to take care of the environment and to perform the consequent responsibilities in order to ensure the health, safety, and longevity of human life. Because three-fourths of the world we live in is made up of water, it is only understandable that proper precautions must be taken to assure the continued availability of our vastest and most precious natural resource. In this regard, many companies are now in the business of selling water treatment equipment designed to purify water and make it safe to use in any whole house water treatment.

When the word "equipment" comes up, most people immediately associate it with cost and instantly think it must be expensive. Water treatment equipment is no exception to this public perception. Many companies acknowledge the fact that equipment for the treatment of water can indeed be a little over what many consider reasonably priced. However, this doesn't mean outright that a whole house water treatment is nothing but a scam to make opportunists filthy rich. The truth of the matter is that water treatment equipment can actually help you save more money than you think, especially in the long run. More importantly, it can keep you healthy and greatly improve your quality of life. This article shows you how.

With a whole house water treatment, you can make sure that the water that runs through your entire house is clean. This is because the water treatment equipment you use has the ability to conduct a purification process that transforms dirty water into clean water. More than clean, your water actually becomes highly potable. In this case, you don't have to buy bottled water for drinking purposes. With a water filter or water softener, whichever you choose, you can drink your water straight up without having to worry about having an upset stomach afterwards because the whole house water treatment of your choice takes care of all the bacteria, viruses, fungi, algae, chemicals, and other contaminants that are harmful to your health. You can use the money - think hundreds of dollars in a year - meant to buy bottled water for other more practical and necessary expenses.

When said contaminants are out of the picture, so are the number of diseases that you can contract from drinking dirty, untreated water. Some of the medical conditions that a whole house water treatment can save you from include allergies, asthma, chemical contamination, and water poisoning. A water treatment system can help greatly reduce the risk of these unfortunate incidents and ensure that you use only clean and safe water for drinking, showering, and washing. Because a whole house water treatment can help maintain good water hygiene, it goes without saying that it can also keep you healthy. Your health is protected against illnesses that using untreated water can bring. It is also because of this that water treatment equipment can help you save money. With a water treatment system, you can be saved from unnecessary hospitalization and medical care, things that are not only taxing but also very expensive.

By: John Sern

Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com

John Lim Cher Sern is an avid proponent of natural health. Water treatment equipment can be a great money saver and can also help your family stay healthy. To get more information about whole house water treatment visit our website at www.cleanhomewaterfilters.com

Water Softeners Buying Guide

2009-03-16T07:02:00.000-07:00

This water softeners buying guide will help you get a better overview of the water softener manufacturers in the market and what they offer. It’s important to navigate through each of these before you make your decision as to which model you’ll purchase and use.

The Autotrol line of water softeners range from softeners to be used in the home to softeners that can be used in commercial buildings. They come as complete units.

These systems will have the following features: a 12-volt wall mount transformer, a microprocessor which monitors your actual daily water usage, an good looking unit, the ability to renew itself, simple program, a NOVRAM memory chip to store water usage data, new efficient valve design, automatic flow control, internal bypass to provide water during regeneration, among others.

These water softeners range in price from around $500 to around $2000 based upon the size of the water softener. The conveniences that are included in some of the softener tanks and not others will also affect the price tag of the overall unit. These softeners are well worth the investment as they will work hard to make your water the best possible for you.

The Fleck water softeners have a variety of features on the products they offer. Each softener in their line focus on one aspect on water softening and will come in a range of sizes with that focus.

For example, the Fleck 2510 line is a line of water softeners that claim an on-demand status. These are typically residential softeners and will help control the amount of water used in the home. The meter is "on-demand" so that no water is wasted in the process of turning on or off the water. These are high flow softeners and have the benefit of being time tested units.

The Fleck 2510SE line of softeners are also "on-demand." They also help to conserve water and limit the amount of water wasted. Yet, these are controlled by simplified electronic units. The tanks that come with these units will vary in size which will help determine their price. They will range from around $600 to around $1350.

The final Fleck product line is the Fleck 5600 Ecominder. This product, as explained by its name, is one that is more environmentally friendly and will work to help keep the planet safe. This will help control the amount of water and salt you use and they are economically priced. They will range from $450-$650.

The last line of products in this water softeners buying guide are the Clack WS1 water softener systems. They feature state of the art electronics and include a high flow rate. They are often used in combination with simple end operations for those that will control and operate them.

These tanks have high capabilities. They will range from 24,000 grain to 64,000 grain tank. They are controlled through the Clack WS1 high flow rate valve. They will differ in the amount of water they expel per minute.

The tanks themselves and the control of those tanks are all run by the state of the art technology on the Clack design. These tanks will range in price from around $620 to about $730. They can be purchased and shipped to you which will leave you to install and start using them based on the included instructions.

If you own a commercial business within an area that has hard water it’s more important than ever to ensure that you have a water softener that works well. This will mean that all water used in your business will be as healthy as possible while being used in appropriate amounts and not being wasted.

The units that are designed for higher capacities are what every business needs. Their warranties and state of the art technology will help keep costs down and give the best water possible.

By: TommyM

Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com

This water softener buying guide gives you just a brief overview of the market. You will find more detailed water softener comparison and water softeners reviews at www.allwaterpurification.com.

5 Big Reasons Why You Should Use Drinking Water Filters

2009-02-24T04:08:00.000-08:00

Image by Getty Images via Daylife

The best drinking water filters provide us with the best quality water we can get. The best drinking water filter can improve our life, enhance our performance and increase our energy levels by providing what our bodies crave…99.99% pure drinking water.

70% of our body weight is water. We have to replace and replenish that water on a regular basis or face illness. Each person should consume gallons of water every day, but many do not, because their water doesn't taste fresh or it smells like chlorine. Good drinking water filters will put the joy back into drinking water.

Pure drinking water is important in more ways than one, the water that we take in may contain bacteria that can cause diarrhea, which can be life threatening to small children, the elderly and anyone with a compromised immune system. Chlorine is added to the water at the treatment facility to remove bacteria...to disinfect the water.

But, some bacteria are resistant to chlorine. Cryptosporidium cysts, for example, are not killed by chlorine. Only a drinking water filter with a micron particle stage can stop cryptosporidium at the cyst stage and protect your family's health.

The average drinking water filter is carbon based. Carbon activated drinking water filters remove chlorine and chemicals, but other stages are needed to remove different things. It all really depends on what's in your water and without laboratory testing, the only safe thing to do is buy a drinking water filter that can address all of the problems that "could" be in your water.

Some drinking water filters (like reverse osmosis and distillation) remove trace minerals that are good for your health. The best drinking water filters "balance" the mineral content, instead. So, in areas where high mineral content or "hard" water is a problem, hard minerals are replaced with "softer minerals". A drinking water filter that has a ion exchange stage is the right choice for well balanced mineral content.

Drinking water filters have been around for a long time. In India they had a crude drinking water filter that was used for ages. It consisted of a big round clay pot. The impurities would be absorbed by the clay and the remaining water tasted sweet and refreshing. With modern science we have perfected the technology and now can filter a number of things that are not good for us, but some drinking water filters are stuck in the dark ages.

Chlorine removal is just one thing that a drinking water filter can do to improve our water. Some companies stop there. Other drinking water filters go the extra mile by reducing harmful pollutants like pesticides and herbicides. Remember, anything that goes down the drain or on the ground eventually ends up in the ground water and our drinking water reservoirs

We use thousands of chemicals every day, thoughtlessly. Industries have spills, as do gas stations and repair shops. We have our grass treated with pesticides. We use herbicides to kill weeds. We wash medicines down the drain. All of this stuff ends up in the drinking water.

It is important to be careful about what you flush down the drain or pour on the ground, but you have to realize that other people may not be so careful. The only way to protect your family is by investing in good drinking water filters for every tap in the house.

By: Gordi

Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com

Gordon Hall is fervent about enabling you and everyone to live a healthy lifestyle, and is an ardent reviewer of Water Purification Systems. Visit his website now at : www.water-safe-and-pure.com to discover which Water Purification Systems Gordon recommends after far ranging comparisons.

Treatments For Hard Water

2009-02-24T03:48:00.000-08:00

Image via Wikipedia

More drinking water is being consumed each and every day. Those that are drinking it are thinking more and more about just how clean and safe it really is. If them amounts of water that are being consumed is any indication, than the worry about the water is larger than once thought.

Treatment systems for hard water are one way to lower the dangerous substances found in the water and improve the quality of it. When you hear the phrase 'hard water' it just means that the water has a large calcium and magnesium content. When you have a high concentration of minerals in the water, you have two distinct problems. These are:

Formation Of Scale Deposits

The first problem that it can cause is scale deposits. Scale deposits are created from calcium carbonate or other dissolvable salts that get wet and gather together. They continue to build until this formation of salts inside the water pipes and the other water system surfaces that are used to heat and cool the water.

Scale deposits can also be formed by other types of minerals such as; calcium phosphate, calcium sulfate, magnesium hydroxide, barium sulfate, zinc phosphates, iron hydroxides, and silica. Each of these minerals is found naturally in the water.

The forming of the scale deposits are not the main issue for treatment of hard water. The treatment of the hard water is necessary for the deposits that have formed over time and are causing a problem with the water flow.

These scale deposits do not allow heat conduction to occur like it should on the heat and cold surfaces. It also lessens the wart flow in the pipes since it clogs them up. If you have a boiler or a water heating system you know how expensive it can be to maintain it but, with scale deposits, the cost to fix it could be even more. You need to use a hard water treatment system to lower the cost of fixing the system and also help it to work properly.

The Reaction Of The Soap You Use

There is a second problem that you can encounter with hard water. The hard water can lower the usefulness of the laundry soap you use to watch clothing. If you are in the laundry business, it can be a big thing for you. The hard water will react with the detergent and causes it to form a sticky scum and also stops it from lathering up. The mineral deposits make the soap become less effective and so it is almost not worth using it. Many do not want to give up the use of soap when cleaning.

Hard water treatment systems will provide you with a way to avoid the problem. When the amount of minerals in the water is lowered, the negative reactions of the soap and the hard water and the lather problems will be reduced.

Hard Water Treatments And How They Work

Hard water treatment systems are also known as water softeners. The treatment system takes the hard water and softens it by removing the magnesium and calcium minerals and puts ions of sodium in its place.

Sodium Ions do not moisturize and deposit. It also does not have any adverse reaction with the soap you use. The sodium ions are accepted in the water more so than the magnesium and calcium.

By: David Faulkner

Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com

You can also find more info on water treatment and tasting water. eWaterTreatmentSystems.com is a comprehensive resource for water treatment with information on reviews, reverse osmosis and how it works.

Hard Water Causes Pipe Scale

2009-02-24T02:58:00.000-08:00

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Most residents in the United Kingdom have a problem with hard water. Hard water contains abnormally high and difficult levels of minerals and ions that are not found in "soft" water. Magnesium and Calcium are the minerals that worry people the most. Water starts out as soft but becomes hard when rain water seeps through areas of earth that are high in minerals before it is absorbed into the water table. Soft water is rain water that has fallen to ground that has high concentrations of stone or soil that is peaty. These cannot be absorbed into the water, so the water stays "soft" as it seeps into the water table.

The problems caused by hard water are caused by the minerals that build up in the piping of your home and on the inside of your home appliances or other types of machines that use water on a regular basis. This "scale" decreases the efficiency of the pipes, appliances and machines and eventually they stop working properly.

When your home has hard water it also makes it harder to clean because the minerals interfere with the lathering action of your soap making it harder to rinse the soap from whatever you are cleaning. All of the extra work your machines are doing and water you use as you try to keep your house and body clean cause your energy and water rates to rise. If you let the scale build up too long in your pipes, they will need replacing"a very expensive endeavour.

Many homeowners in the United Kingdom have found that installing a water softener can help a great deal in ridding hard water of its mineral content. A water softener sits between a ground water source and your home and acts as a filter to trap all of the minerals that cause the water to be hard. The filters act as strainers to trap the calcium, magnesium and other minerals that are found in UK hard water.

Some water softener manufacturers include filters that will filter out other things as well as hard water minerals, creating a soft water that is easy to wash and clean with and won't build up mineral scale on your home's pipes.

Hard water can wreak havoc on a house and the human body and the danger is proportional to the amount of dangerous minerals contained in the water. The worst minerals in hard water are magnesium and calcium because too much of either ion can cause disastrous effects on a home and on the human body.

Mineral scale build up on pipes can cause the walls of a pipe to become weak and eventually those pipes will start to leak. This can cause a person thousands in repair and doctor costs. The easiest way to make sure that you only use soft water is to install a water softener somewhere inside your home or on your property.

By: Tal Potishman

Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com

Tal Potishman, editor of Heating Central, writes articles about central heating, home boilers, Golders Green plumbers, underfloor heating and solar thermal. He specializes in helping save money by advising on efficient heating.

Hard water problems in UK

2009-02-24T02:52:00.000-08:00

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Calcite, the main cause of scale, is the most common form of calcium carbonate and occurs naturally as a natural ingredient of chalk, limestone and marble. Water passing over and permeating through such rocks dissolves calcite when this water subsequently flows through a water system the calcite precipitates out to form a very hard scale on surfaces.When hard water is heated, or evaporation takes place, the problems are exacerbated. Calcite forms ever growing layers of rock-like deposits until eventually pipes, jets and equipment become totally blocked. The problem increases as the water gets hotter. Water containing 145 ppm of calcite, flowing at 3.5 litres per minute, produces in one year 4.8 kilograms of scale at 60ºC. At 80ºC this rises dramatically to a massive 29.9 kilograms! Scale wastes both energy and financial resources just one eighth of an inch of scale reduces heating efficiency by 25%. It is also very expensive to remove, de-scaling pipes and boilers alone costs British Industry over £800M each year.

Hard water substantially increases energy consumption, necessitates equipment downtime for cleaning and results in the early renewal of capital equipment. Executives involved in running a business, local government department or institution are under increasing pressure to cut costs and become more efficient. However this must be carried out with due regard to increasing environmental legislation.

From its many years experience in hard water treatment scalewatcher has refined and developed its Electronic Descaling Systems. These provide companies with a clean, effective and environmentally friendly means of removing and preventing
limescale build-up.

Scalewatcher is a unique, efficient, energy-saving device better than the water softener or a magnet. It is designed to eliminate the problems of hard water, whilst retaining the natural benefits. This is achieved by changing the size of the particles of precipitated compounds, by aiding the ability of crystals to form their shape, and by altering the solubility of compounds within liquid. Scalewatcher takes the process of induced ionisation to its ultimate stage. The principles of Magnetohydrodynamics (MHD) are applied by passing scalewatcher's patented signal through a coil wrapped around the pipe to be treated. The signal consists of a frequency modulated (FM) wave form within the audio frequency (AF) bandwidth. This inaudible sonic frequency signal sets up a dynamic field around and through the coil, pipe and water, and modifies the calcium carbonate crystal nuclei. The nuclei upon which the crystals start growing are minute in size and have charged surfaces in their natural condition within the water. When they pass through the field, these naturally charged nuclei encounter considerable forces as the field interacts with them. The field acts at the surfaces of the nuclei and modifies the nature of the electrical charges and this ionisation effect thus alters the growth rate and pattern of the crystals in general and on specific planes.

The principle of magnetic water treatment is not new. The first patent was granted around 1900. Scalewatcher takes this knowledge into the 21st century. The electronic device treats the water by inducing magnetic AND electric fields with a continuous changing frequency. This forces the dissolved minerals such as Calcium and Magnesium to crystallize in the water before the ions settle (hard scale) at walls of piping, bathroom or heating elements of dishwasher and washing machine. This action stops any further build up of hard scale by preventing the settlement of dissolved mineral ions on whatever surface.

Advances in micro-electronics have enabled scalewatcher to produce a system which
is so compact that it can be installed in small or normally inexcessable spaces. It is ideal
for commercial applications such as laundries, hotels, garages, dentists, correctional
centers, restaurants and bakeries. Easily fitted and requiring no plumbing, chemicals or maintenance. Scalewatcher benefits include : increased life for capital equipment, lower energy bills, short term payback, reduced mechanical damage and failure environmentally friendly and hazard free.

The capability of the water to dissolve minerals will also be increased and this is the reason why hard scale layers will be softened, will slowly enter into the water stream, and will disappear down the drain.

By: Caroline Anderson

Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com

From its many years experience in hard water treatment scalewatcher has refined and developed its Electronic Descaling Systems. Scalewatcher is a unique, efficient, energy-saving device better than the water softener or a magnet.

Energy Efficient Central Heating

2009-02-24T02:41:00.000-08:00

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There are many products that are available to add to your system to keep it running on a regular basis, and there are others that you can install and let them do the work for you. Either way, a well looked after system will run more efficiently for you.

We have all heard the advice from the Government and environmental agents telling us to turn off lights, turn off TVs and not leaving them on standby, and turning down our washing machine temperature and room thermostats. All of these are very effective ways of saving energy which will not only help environmentally but also reduce many household bills. But what about getting your central heating system to work more efficiently?

The build up of sludge and limescale deposits in your central heating system will cause it to run less efficiently.

To stop the build up of limescale and sludge in your system – particularly in hard water areas, then you need to take a look at water treatment.
Water treatment is a term used to cover many different ways of looking after your system. A wide range of water treatment products including scale reducers and inhibitors, magnetic and electronic lime fighters, sludge removers, noise reducers and anti-freeze are available.

Living in the UK means that depending on whereabouts you are in the country, your water can range from hard to soft. Living in a hard water area means that you are prone to limescale – your kettle probably being the first place that you will notice limescale deposits as well as on your showerhead and taps. Limescale reduces efficiency and adds to heating bills. Just a small, thin layer of scale in your hot water cylinder can increase your fuel bills by as much as 40%. Limescale is simply calcium deposits in your system. Those who live in soft water areas need not take quite so many precautions – but it is always wise to seek advice if you are unsure.

Most water treatments act by altering the molecular structure of the water and the particles therein and changing the way it behaves. Some will change one structure for another, others remove the offending structure and another will stop them from being able to make a solid – leaving them in suspension.

There are chemical test kits which will measure the ph and chloride levels and also the iron and copper levels so that you can measure the probable corrosion potential and rate.

First, you must ensure that your system has been installed by a competent person – just knowing that you must never directly connect aluminium to copper or brass because simply by connecting different metals can start a reaction which causes corrosion. All gas connections must be made by a CORGI registered tradesperson.

It is a good idea to plan ahead, if you are having a new system installed, think which water treatment you will require as some can be fitted to your system. If you are updating your existing system you would be looking at flushing the whole system before adding any water treatment solutions.

Heating systems take water from the mains water supply and there are various systems that you can attach to your mains supply to deal with hard water problems, however, it is worth noting that systems that are put in to soften water in your home are only for household use and will do nothing for your central heating system problems. They will help make detergents and soaps lather more readily but do not help in the fight to get your heating system working efficiently.

The three main things that you need to prevent are corrosion, limescale and biological growth.

Corrosion can start from the moment the system is set up and filled with water from the mains supply. Corrosion causes sludge in the system which can restrict the circulation causing cold spots on your radiators. It can cause pinholes in the radiators and if left can cause the boiler to become noisy.
Limescale is caused by calcium and magnesium which is present in the water – hard water areas having far more of these minerals than other parts of the country. Once the water is heated it leaves deposits of these minerals which form a hard crust, building up over time and blocking pipes etc. This again can manifest itself with a noisy heating system.

Biological growth in the system is another one to avoid. This tends to get into the system by open tanks. Once in the system it breeds producing slime and sludge. This can also grow and cause blockages in the pipework thereby reducing the efficiency of the whole system.

There is a lot of free advice on the internet. Take some time to look through this. I would start with the manufacturers themselves. Below is a list of manufacturers and some of the popular products they have available. Blogs are another great source of free advice and information or contact a supplier with any queries that you may have.

Good luck with your water treatment – here’s to energy efficient heating and hot water with lower household bills of course.

Aqua-Dial: Aqua-Dial Combi-Care uses a dilute form of polyphosphate which bonds with the scale causing minerals in the water making them soluble with the remaining hard minerals staying in the solution. The Aqua-Dial Combi-Care permanently prevents precipitation of calcium scale as well as protection against corrosion with a 12 month cartridge life. The Aqua-Dial Ceramic Magnetic Scale Reducer offers whole house scale protection. Suitable for immersion heaters, hot water cylinders and heaters, combi boilers and electric showers.

Fernox: Fernox manufacture an extensive range of Water Treatment products, including Central Heating Protector, System Neutraliser, Cleaner and Cleanser, Limescale Preventor and Remover, and Cleansing and Flushing Restorer. New to the range is the Boiler Buddy, a magnetic filter that traps magnetite and sludge. The Boiler Buddy is designed to last the life of the heating system.

Liff: The Liff Limebeater is an eloctrolytic water conditioner which changes the characteristics of water allowing limescale simply to pass through a domestic hot water system without sticking to heat exchange surfaces and extends the life of hot water appliances and cylinders. The Liff Wrappa is an electronic water conditioner for copper or plastic water pipe that uses radio frequencies to alter the characteristics of water, again allowing limescale to pass through a domestic hot water system without sticking to heat exchange surfaces. The Wrappa can also remove existing scale from a system.
Salamander: The Salamander SESI inhibits limescale formation in domestic water systems without using chemicals or salt. WRAS approved. The Salamander SESI is installed on the incoming mains, and treats the whole house.
Scalemaster: Scalemaster produce a range of scale inhibitors and reducers. Magnetic, digisonic and electrolytic products available for water treatment and for corrosion protection there are the Scalemaster Corrosion Masters.
Sentinel: Sentinel manufacture a comprehensive range of easy to use scale inhibitors and reducers, including Sentinel Universal Combiguard, Ferroquest and Universal cleansers, ensuring the efficiency if the central heating system is maintained.

All of these products can be purchased at UK Plumbing Ltd – online suppliers of plumbing and heating supplies to the trade and DIY.

By: Claire Hamill

Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com

Claire Hamill of UK Plumbing Ltd (www.uk-plumbing.com)