Water heater and water softener are the keys to having good water in your house. Although both are devices that allow you to maximize the water quality, water heater and water softener have some significant differences.
The differences between water heater and water softener include functions, how they work, purpose, benefits, and requirements.
This article will explore the key differences between water heater and water softener for having good water quality in your house.
What is a Water Heater?
A water heater is an electronic device used to heat water to a certain temperature. Its purpose, of course, is for various household needs, such as bathing, washing, or kitchen use.
This heating device uses energy from sources like electricity, gas, and solar power. There are two types of water heater systems: storage type and instant type. The storage type uses a storage tank, while the instant type heats the water directly as it flows.
What is a Water Softener?
A water softener is an electronic device used to remove high mineral levels, such as calcium and magnesium, from water. The removal process involves ion exchange, which makes the water softer.
By using this device, there will be no limescale problems on your pipes or household appliances. The water quality in your home will also improve, and appliances such as boilers, water heaters, and dishwashers will be protected.
The Differences Between Water Heater and Water Softener
A water heater and a water softener are devices that allow you to have good water quality in your house. Here are five differences between water heater and water softener:
1. Functions
Water heater: Functions to change the temperature of water from cold to hot as needed for bathing, washing dishes, or washing clothes.
Water softener: Functions to reduce water hardness. Removes high mineral content, such as calcium and magnesium, from water.
2. How they work
Water heater: Uses various energy sources, ranging from electricity, gas, solar panels, and ambient temperature, to increase the temperature of the flowing water.
Water softener: Uses an ion exchange process, where filter resin using salt attracts mineral ions that cause scale and releases sodium ions.
3. Purpose
Water heater: The purpose of a water heater is to increase the temperature for comfortable use.
Water softener: The purpose of a water softener is to reduce the mineral composition of water to reduce its hardness.
4. Benefits
Water heater: This device will ensure the availability of hot water in your home. So you can take a shower at a comfortable temperature and clean bacteria on the floor and clothes.
Water softener: This device will prevent scale buildup in pipes and household appliances. It can also reduce the effects of hard water on the skin and make soap work better.
5. Requirements
Water heater: To meet the need for hot water in your home. Suitable for those living in cold areas.
Water softener: To meet the need to reduce hard water. Suitable for those living in areas with well or mountain water that has a high calcium content.
That’s the difference between water heater and water softener that you can consider when choosing according to your personal needs.
If you want to improve water quality for comfort, a water heater is a good choice. However, if you want to improve water quality by removing minerals from the water, you can choose a water softener.