In an article in WaterTech On Line, there is a bill to ban water softeners in California that has been passed by the California assembly and is now awaiting a signature from Govenor Arnold Schwarenegger. The bill would amend water code quality to allow regional water boards in California the right to ban softeners in new construction as well as possibly the mandate the removal of previously installed softeners.
This movement towards the banning of softeners was brought on by concerns about the rise in discharge saline levels in the wastewater and other sources and should it be signed into law, has significant implications for other parts of the country. It's a dramatic step that has softener manufacturers scrambling to find ways to reduce the saline required to "soften" water but it might be too little, too late.
Hard water problems exist in many markets and have traditionally been addressed with water softeners which use salt as a means of removing the minerals in the water and flushing the waste water into the sewer system. Mineral deposits from hard water accumulate on heating elements, clog shower heads and faucets, can reduce or restrict the flow in the plumbing and can reduce the efficiency and life of appliances such as dishwashers, washing machines, and hot water heaters. It can also affect clothing washed in hard water making them appear dingy and feel harsh to the skin.
Alternatives to water softeners are available in the market but have not been widely used as the market has not been looking for alternatives content to use the "traditional" salt based water treatment systems. That may be changing as a result of this bill and is certainly a focus for homeowners in California.
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