With dozens of water treatment options available, choosing the right system can feel overwhelming. This guide walks you through a systematic approach to finding the best solution for your specific water quality challenges.
Step 1: Get Your Water Tested
You can't solve a problem you don't understand. Professional water testing is the foundation of any effective treatment plan.
Essential Tests
Step 2: Understand Your Results
Test results are just numbers until you understand what they mean. Here's a quick reference for common parameters:
| Parameter | Ideal Range | Action Level |
|---|---|---|
| Hardness | 0-3 gpg | >7 gpg - softener recommended |
| Iron | <0.3 ppm | >0.3 ppm - filtration needed |
| pH | 7.0-8.5 | <6.5 or >8.5 - correction needed |
| TDS | <500 ppm | >500 ppm - RO recommended |
| Bacteria | 0 CFU | Any - disinfection required |
Step 3: Match Problems to Solutions
Different water quality issues require different treatment approaches. Here's how to match your problems to solutions:
Step 4: Consider System Order
When multiple treatment systems are needed, the order matters. Water should flow through systems in this sequence:
Sediment Pre-Filter
Protects downstream equipment from particles
Iron/Sulfur Filter (if needed)
Remove these before softening to protect resin
Water Softener
Removes hardness minerals
Carbon Filter (if needed)
Removes chlorine, taste, and odor
UV Disinfection (if needed)
Final barrier for microorganism protection
Step 5: Size Your System Correctly
Proper sizing is critical. An undersized system won't keep up with demand; oversized systems waste money and may not regenerate efficiently.
Sizing Factors
- Water hardness level - Higher hardness requires larger capacity
- Household size - More people means more water usage
- Number of bathrooms - Indicates peak demand potential
- Water usage patterns - High usage needs faster regeneration
Step 6: Choose Your Company Wisely
The company you work with is as important as the equipment you choose. Look for:
Free water testing - Reputable companies test before recommending
Licensed plumbers - Proper installation is critical
Quality equipment - NSF-certified with strong warranties
Local service - Available for maintenance and repairs
Transparent pricing - No high-pressure sales tactics
Red Flags to Watch For
Be cautious of companies that:
- Recommend equipment without testing your water first
- Use scare tactics about your water quality
- Pressure you to buy immediately with "limited time" offers
- Won't provide written quotes or warranties
- Can't explain why they're recommending specific equipment
At Solomon Home Water Solutions, we believe in education over sales pressure. We'll test your water, explain your results, and recommend only what you actually need.