Unlocking the Benefits: How a Water Softener Can Help

If you’ve ever dealt with hard water issues in your home, you may have heard about the magic solution known as a water softener. But what exactly does a water softener do, and why is it essential for households dealing with hard water? In this article, we’ll dive deep into the world of water softeners, exploring their function, benefits, and the difference they can make in your daily life.

Understanding Hard Water and the Effects of Iron and Manganese

Hard water contains high concentrations of minerals, primarily calcium and magnesium ions. These minerals are naturally present in groundwater and can create household problems when they accumulate in your plumbing and appliances.

Hard water-related issues encompass the corrosion and scaling within pipes, pervasive staining in showers, bathtubs, and sinks, and your water heater’s premature wear and tear. Scale build-up inside water heaters can insulate the temperature sensor within the tank, causing them to work harder to reach the desired temperature. Iron and manganese in water can also lead to unsightly rusty or black/brown staining and corrosion within the home.

What Does a Water Softener Do?

A water softener is a household appliance designed to combat the adverse effects of hard water. It operates using an ion exchange process, which involves removing calcium and magnesium ions from the water and replacing them with sodium or potassium ions.

A water softener proves highly efficient in eliminating the presence of hard water minerals, dissolved iron, and manganese in private wells that supply homes throughout Michigan. While the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has not established specific limits for water hardness, these minerals, namely magnesium and calcium, can significantly compromise the quality of your home’s water. The EPA has set maximum allowable levels for iron and manganese as secondary contaminants at 0.3 and 0.05 parts per million, respectively. Although these concentrations seem minute, their impact can be quite substantial.

When addressing elevated levels of hard water minerals, iron, or manganese in your well water, the recommended solution is water softening.

What Does a Water Softener Remove?

A water softener effectively eliminates dissolved forms of iron, manganese, and hard water minerals. A cartridge filter with an appropriate micron rating becomes necessary to address particulate iron or manganese. Depending on the specific water conditions, this may involve using a series of filters with varying micron ratings to tackle higher levels of these contaminants in the water. A water treatment professional can best determine the suitable micron rating and filter style based on water test results and other relevant indicators.

How Does a Water Softener Work?

  • Ion Exchange: Water enters the water softener tank, flowing through a resin bed made of tiny resin beads. These beads are negatively charged, attracting positively charged calcium and magnesium ions.
  • Removal of Hardness Minerals: As the water passes through the resin bed, the calcium and magnesium ions bind to the resin beads, effectively removing them from the water.
  • Regeneration: Over time, the resin beads become saturated with hard minerals. The water softener flushes a brine solution (a saltwater mixture) through the resin tank to regenerate the resin and continue the softening process. This brine solution displaces the calcium and magnesium ions and recharges the resin beads with sodium or potassium ions.
  • Softened Water: The treated water, now free of calcium and magnesium ions, exits the softener and flows into your home’s plumbing system. This softened water is less likely to cause scale buildup, soap scum, or other hard water-related problems.

The Benefits of Using a Water Softener

There are many benefits to using a water softener, the primary being scale prevention. A softener prevents the accumulation of scale deposits in your pipes, appliances, and fixtures, which can extend the life of your plumbing system and appliances. With reduced scale buildup, your water heater and other devices will use less energy, potentially saving costs. Softened water is also gentler on your skin and hair, leaving you feeling cleaner and reducing dryness and irritation. It allows soap to lather more efficiently, reducing the amount of soap and detergent needed for cleaning and laundry.

A water softener is a valuable addition to any home or office facing challenging water issues. It’s a simple yet effective solution that can make a noticeable difference in the quality of your water. Consider installing a water softener or conditioning system to enjoy the many benefits of clean, softened water.

Contact Reynolds Water Conditioning today to discuss water solutions for your home or office!

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Reynolds Water Conditioning was established in 1931 and is Michigan’s oldest water conditioning treatment company. Still owned and operated by the Reynolds family, we take pride in providing the highest quality products at a cost-effective price. If your tap water lacks the quality you deserve, contact us today at 800-572-9575.

Written by the digital marketing team at Creative Programs & Systems: www.cpsmi.com

The Hidden Gem: Private Wells Supplying Homes in Michigan

When considering clean and reliable water resources in Michigan, most people first think of the Great Lakes. However, there’s an overlooked water source that has provided countless residents for generations: private wells. An extensive network of private wells dots the landscape, supplying water to rural and suburban homes. These private wells offer homeowners a degree of autonomy and control over their water supply, as they are not connected to municipal water systems.

The Significance of Private Water Wells

Self-Sufficiency:

Private wells empower homeowners to have their own water source, reducing dependence on municipal water supplies and potentially saving on water bills.

Water Quality:

Many private well owners attest to the superior taste and quality of well water, which often comes from underground aquifers free from the chlorine and additives present in treated city water.

Environmental Impact:

By relying on their wells, homeowners can help reduce the strain on municipal water treatment facilities and decrease their ecological footprint.

Things to Consider Regarding Private Water Wells

Water Quality Testing:

Regular testing for contaminants like bacteria, nitrates, and arsenic is crucial to ensure the safety of well water. Michigan residents should take advantage of the state’s free well water testing program to assess water quality.

Maintenance:

Private well owners need to invest in regular well maintenance to ensure their systems operate efficiently and reliably. This includes checking pumps, pressure tanks, and well casings.

Regulations:

Michigan has specific regulations governing private wells, and homeowners must comply with these guidelines to ensure their wells meet safety standards.

Vulnerability to Contaminants:

Private wells are vulnerable to contamination from various sources, including nearby septic systems, agricultural runoff, and industrial pollutants. Ensuring proper well construction and maintenance is essential to minimize these risks.

Protecting Michigan’s Well Water

  1. Test your water regularly and follow recommendations for water treatment or filtration if necessary.
  2. Work with licensed contractors for installation, repair, and maintenance.
  3. Be aware of potential sources of contamination in the vicinity of the well.
  4. Stay informed about state regulations related to private wells.

Private wells supplying homes in Michigan are vital in providing clean and reliable water to residents across the state. While they offer numerous benefits, homeowners must also be diligent in ensuring the safety and quality of their well water. By taking proactive steps and adhering to state regulations, Michigan residents can continue to enjoy the advantages of private well ownership while protecting their health and the environment for future generations.

If you have well water, contact the experts at Reynold’s Water for testing and solutions for treating water and more!

Reynolds Water Conditioning was established in 1931 and is Michigan’s oldest water conditioning treatment company. Still owned and operated by the Reynolds family, we take pride in providing the highest quality products at a cost-effective price. If your tap water lacks the quality you deserve, contact us today at 800-572-9575.

Written by the digital marketing team at Creative Programs & Systems: www.cpsmi.com

Whole House Water Filtration Systems vs. Reverse Osmosis Systems

Are you wondering what the differences are between a whole house water filter system and a reverse osmosis system? They both have their own unique features and benefits. Keep reading our blog to learn more about these two popular filtration systems.   

Understanding Whole House Water Filter Systems

A whole house water filter system is positioned where your main water line enters your home. It’s a collective set of filters within a single unit, filtering both hot and cold water.

Pros:

  • Filters all the water in your home
  • Enhances quality of water for drinking, showering, etc.
  • Systems vary for specific needs (i.e., city or well water)
  • Comprehensive filtration

Cons:

  • Installation can be challenging; often requires a plumber
  • Permanent setup, not ideal for rental properties
  • Reliable systems start around $1,000.

Understanding Reverse Osmosis Systems

Reverse osmosis systems are also a collective set of filters within a single unit, but they utilize a specialized, semi-permeable membrane with fine pores to filter out contaminants. While they can be placed at various points of use, they’re often installed under kitchen sinks due to water waste concerns.

Pros:

  • Provides exceptional filtration, removing nearly all contaminants
  • Versatile placements: under-sink, countertop, or whole home
  • Generally straightforward installation

Cons:

  • Strips water of beneficial minerals
  • May result in flat-tasting water
  • Uses excess water

What’s the Main Difference Between a Whole House System and a Reverse Osmosis System?

The primary distinction between whole-house systems and reverse osmosis systems lies in their filtration process. While entire house systems utilize a sequence of filter cartridges to capture contaminants, reverse osmosis systems incorporate an extra filtration layer—a semi-permeable membrane—that removes almost all dissolved solids, including minerals and metals, from the water.

Which is better for your home or office? It just depends on what you’re looking for!

Some Other Things to Consider Regarding Water Filtration:

  • Cost: Whole house water filtration systems range from $500 to $2,000+, with prices influenced by brand, quality, and performance specialization. With their advanced designs, air injection systems typically cost more than cartridge systems. Meanwhile, under-sink reverse osmosis systems are priced between $150 and $1,000, determined by design and performance.
  • Design: Whole house systems’ designs differ. City water systems often combine carbon media with others like ion exchange, KDF, and activated alumina. They come as tank-based or cartridge-based, with most having a sediment pre-filter. In contrast, reverse osmosis systems use a multi-stage approach, including sediment, carbon, polishing filters, and a semi-permeable membrane. Traditional RO systems store water in tanks, while contemporary models are tankless.
  • Installation Location: Whole house water filtration systems treat all water entering your home, installed near the water’s entry point. On the other hand, reverse osmosis systems can filter the entire home’s supply or just specific areas like the kitchen sink.
  • Contaminant Removal: Whole house systems target common drinking water contaminants like chlorine, chloramine, heavy metals, VOCs, nitrate, arsenic, fluoride, pharmaceuticals, and agrochemicals. However, their efficacy varies, and some might address even more contaminants. In contrast, reverse osmosis systems offer bottled-quality water, removing said contaminants plus bacteria, minerals, salts, cysts, and certain viruses.
  • Efficiency: Whole house systems are generally efficient. Most don’t rely on electricity or waste water, making them cost-effective and straightforward. However, some, like air injection systems, do waste water during backwashing. While reverse osmosis (RO) systems are improving in efficiency, they inherently waste water by flushing contaminants. Some modern RO systems offer a 1:1 water waste to pure water ratio, but traditional ones can waste up to 4 gallons for every gallon purified.
  • Maintenance Requirements: Whole house systems for city water typically need annual maintenance, with filters changed every 12 months, though some may require more frequent changes. Systems using pre-loaded media tanks need maintenance every 5-10 years. In contrast, RO systems demand more upkeep. They usually have three filters needing replacement every 6-12 months and a semi-permeable membrane with a two-year lifespan.

Need help deciding which water filtration system is best for your household? Contact a water specialist expert at Reynolds Water Conditioning today for assistance!  

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Reynolds Water Conditioning was established in 1931 and is Michigan’s oldest water conditioning treatment company. Still owned and operated by the Reynolds family, we take pride in providing the highest quality products at a cost-effective price. If your tap water lacks the quality you deserve, contact us today at 800-572-9575.

Written by the digital marketing team at Creative Programs & Systems: https://www.cpsmi.com/

Water Filters Cartridges and Softeners

Water Filters Cartridges and Softeners

If your home or business depends on well water, you will likely face some diverse water quality issues.

Luckily, various water filters cater to these needs, ranging from cartridges to whole-house water filters. Among these are different types and sizes specifically designed to target and remove certain contaminants from the water. Choosing the appropriate technology and size for your home’s water usage is imperative. Proper installation by professionals and consistent system maintenance are essential to extending the lifespan and ensuring the optimal performance of your water filtration equipment.

What Are Sediment Water Filter Cartridges?

Sediment filters use a physical barrier, such as a mesh or pleated material, to remove larger particles like sand, silt, and rust from water. Their efficiency depends on the micron rating, which determines the size of fragments they can filter out. A too-small micron rating can reduce water pressure, while a too-large one might not effectively remove sediment. Finding the right balance requires experience that usually only a water treatment specialist will know. At Reynolds Water Conditioning, our professionals can assist you in determining the best fit for your unique scenario.

Sediment filters are important because residue and minerals can wear out water-using appliances and hinder the performance of other water treatment systems. While they improve the quality of your drinking water, additional purification steps may be required.

What Are Carbon Water Filter Cartridges?

Carbon water filter cartridges utilize activated carbon to eliminate chemicals like chlorine and certain

odors from water. These filters are also found in reverse osmosis systems to pre-treat water by removing chlorine, which can damage the system’s membrane. The process of trapping particles in the porous carbon is called adsorption. Over time, the filter’s adsorption capacity maxes out, requiring a change. Matching the filter’s micron rating and size to the intended use is crucial.

Other specialized filter cartridges address unique water issues like pH balance and pipe protection. A water treatment expert can recommend these based on specific needs.

What Are Whole-house, Point-of-Entry Water Softeners and Filters?

Water softeners, a type of whole-house filtration, treat hard water by removing minerals like magnesium, calcium, iron, and manganese. An “up-flow” softener is advised to prevent mineral accumulation for high iron or manganese levels. Opt for high-efficiency softeners for better water and salt usage.

These comprehensive systems treat water at the point-of-entry into a building, ensuring that all the water used in the house is filtered. Point-of-entry systems offer solutions for high water usage scenarios where cartridge filters aren’t practical. These systems are self-cleaning, which helps to extend their lifespan. A point-of-entry carbon filter provides prolonged chlorine removal through extended contact time for town water rich in chlorine.

Removing Radon and Arsenic from Well Water

In Michigan, well water may contain Radon and Arsenic. Water softeners won’t address these. Radon is managed using aeration systems that release the gas from water, safely venting it outdoors. For arsenic, tanks with specific resin can capture it before entering a home’s water. For drinking water, reverse osmosis systems can effectively tackle arsenic. Consult with a professional for the best solution.

Treating Well Water for Bad Tastes and Odors

Various systems can address taste, odor, sediment, and other contaminants. A water test is the starting point to determine the suitable approach.

To test the quality of your well water and determine viable solutions, contact Reynolds Water Conditioning today!

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Reynolds Water Conditioning was established in 1931 and is Michigan’s oldest water conditioning treatment company. Still owned and operated by the Reynolds family, we take pride in providing the highest quality products at a cost-effective price. If your tap water lacks the quality you deserve, contact us today at 800-572-9575.

Written by the digital marketing team at Creative Programs & Systems: https://www.cpsmi.com/

August is National Water Quality Month

Imagine life without water. It’s a terrible concept if you really think about it. A life without water or a lack of reliable, clean drinking water is not a welcome thought. Those who live in certain parts of the world are all too familiar with the barriers to obtaining clean water, while others don’t fully recognize the scarcity of this natural resource. National Water Quality Month was created to prompt people to be mindful and preserve our sacred availability of fresh water.

Earth’s Freshwater

Despite water covering 70% of Earth’s surface, only 3% is freshwater, with just 1% being easily accessible to sustain the needs of over 7 billion people. That’s a hard fact to swallow, especially when you look at a globe or satellite imagery and see Earth primarily blue. According to the U.S. Geological Survey, more than 68% of Earth’s freshwater is found in icecaps and glaciers, and just over 30% is in the ground. This leaves only .03% of our freshwater to fill lakes, rivers, and swamps.

It’s remarkable to think that the water sustaining both land and marine life on Earth is so scarce. This understanding highlights the necessity to use this resource wisely. A crucial beginning or first step is to educate ourselves and future generations on the sensible use and protection of water.

The Start of National Water Quality Month

National Water Quality Month can be traced to two U.S. congressional acts from the early 1970s to safeguard our water resources. The 1972 Clean Water Act initiated federal efforts to combat water pollution by prohibiting the excessive discharge of toxins into waterways and established standards for surface water used by humans. The Safe Drinking Water Act of 1974 further ensured the quality of groundwater and public water systems.

In 2005, National Water Quality Month was established by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) with support from the United Nations. This initiative aimed to encourage discussions about preserving our natural water resources, focusing on steps households and communities can take to guarantee future generations have access to safe and clean drinking water.

The Importance of Freshwater & How It Affects You

Consider the importance that water has on everything, not just humans, but also wildlife and plants – a whole ecosystem that cycles through generations. Think about the little things that you do on a daily basis that may or may not have a negative effect on water. By being aware of your specific impact, you’ll hopefully be more cognizant in making a positive change. 

Lifesaving Freshwater:

  • All living beings require water, specifically freshwater for drinking. Saltwater, due to its salinity, isn’t suitable for direct consumption.
  • Freshwater is crucial for irrigating crops. Saltwater is detrimental to most plants because it can dehydrate them and affect soil quality.
  • We rely on freshwater for sanitation, such as washing, cleaning, and other hygiene-related activities.
  • Freshwater habitats like rivers, lakes, and wetlands support distinct biodiversity. Many species are adapted only to freshwater environments and can’t survive in saltwater conditions.
  • Industries prefer freshwater for many processes since saltwater can be corrosive and requires desalination for many applications, which is energy intensive.
  • Many regions base their economy on freshwater sources. For instance, cities by freshwater lakes or rivers often have bustling economies centered on trade, tourism, and fishing.
  • Access to clean freshwater is directly linked to health. Contaminated freshwater sources can lead to diseases like cholera, dysentery, and other water-borne illnesses.

Given its scarcity and the vital role it plays in various facets of life and society, freshwater’s importance is especially pronounced. Protecting and managing freshwater resources is crucial for sustainable development and the well-being of all life on Earth.

Charities & Resources for Clean Water

Many organizations worldwide are dedicated to providing people with clean, reliable drinking water or mobilizing efforts to free our waterways from pollution. Below, we list a few trustworthy sources to review and consider their cause. If you’re able to make a monetary donation, great. But really, the primary purpose of this article is to share some knowledge about water as a precious resource and hopefully help people make a conscious effort to sustain our water for generations.

Learn more and consider donating to:

Clean Water Action – Michigan: https://cleanwater.org/make-special-gift-protect-clean-water-michigan

The Ocean Clean Up: https://theoceancleanup.com/donate/

World Water Reserve: https://worldwaterreserve.com/clean-water-charity-organizations/

For even more information, visit: The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), The Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA), The Clean Water Act (CWA), The World Health Organization (WHO), and your local water utility to stay abreast of the latest happenings in your community and beyond.

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Reynolds Water Conditioning was established in 1931 and is Michigan’s oldest water conditioning treatment company. Still owned and operated by the Reynolds family, we take pride in providing the highest quality products at a cost-effective price. If your tap water lacks the quality you deserve, contact us today at 800-572-9575.

Written by the digital marketing team at Creative Programs & Systems: https://www.cpsmi.com/

Whole House Water Filtration – Rochester, MI

Whole home water purification systems are available to tackle the different types of water quality challenges present in Michigan cities. It’s crucial to select the right technology and size the system appropriately to handle your household’s water consumption. A system installed by professionals is vital, along with consistent maintenance over time to ensure its longevity and effective operation.

While signs of water quality concerns like unpleasant odors and tastes, staining of clothes and bathroom fixtures, etc., signal existing issues, the recommended initial step is to conduct a water test. This test will identify the contaminants or minerals present in the water and their respective quantities. This information is key to making an informed system recommendation and establishing a pathway toward excellent water quality in your home.

A water softener serves as a form of whole home water filtration system, engineered to eliminate hard water minerals such as magnesium and calcium, along with dissolved iron and manganese from the water. For water carrying high concentrations of iron or manganese, often known as “the stainers,” an “up-flow” water softener is suggested to avert mineral accumulation at the base of the water softener. Additionally, high-efficiency water softeners, which are more effective in terms of water and salt utilization, are more desirable.

Systems exist that can eliminate unpleasant tastes and odors, sediment, and a host of unwanted minerals and contaminants in the water. Initiating a water test sets the stage for the appropriate solution. View our available water softeners and water conditions, or contact Reynolds Water to schedule service.

Whole House Water Filtration – Arsenic and Radon

Other contaminants found in Michigan well water include Radon and Arsenic. Radon present in water can be securely extracted using an aeration system. This system stirs the incoming well water inside a sealed chamber, allowing the radon gas to separate from the water. The gas is then safely expelled to the exterior environment.

Arsenic in water can be addressed by setting up tanks at the home’s entry point filled with a special resin designed to trap arsenic before it enters your home’s water system. Drinking water systems can also leverage reverse osmosis technology to eliminate arsenic effectively. Consult with a tech at Reynolds Water to determine the system that best suits your needs.

Reynolds Water Conditioning is a full-service water filtration and testing facility, serving Michigan residents since 1931. Contact us for further questions and assistance with your water needs.

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Reynolds Water Conditioning was established in 1931 and is Michigan’s oldest water conditioning treatment company. Still owned and operated by the Reynolds family, we take pride in providing the highest quality products at a cost-effective price. If your tap water lacks the quality you deserve, contact us today at 800-572-9575.

Written by the digital marketing team at Creative Programs & Systems: https://www.cpsmi.com/ 

Removing PFAS From Your Drinking Water – Farmington Hills, MI

PFAS in Drinking Water: Analyzing Health Risks and Methods for Elimination

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, or PFAS, comprise a family of synthetic chemicals in production and have been utilized across various industries since the 1940s. These chemicals are frequently incorporated into products such as Teflon, water and stain-repellent fabrics, paints, waxes, and firefighting foams. The latter being a significant contributor to groundwater contamination near airports, military bases, and firefighter training facilities. There is a growing concern as these chemicals have been identified in alarming concentrations in drinking water sources throughout the United States.

PFAS chemicals, particularly PFOA and PFOS, have been the most widely manufactured and studied. They persist in the environment due to their long half-lives and can accumulate in the human body over time. Studies indicate that exposure to these substances can harm human health. In response to these findings, production of these chemicals has ceased in the United States. However, they are still manufactured in other nations, and products containing these chemicals could be imported into the U.S.

Considering the potential health risks associated with PFAS, it is vital to consider strategies for eliminating or reducing their presence in drinking water sources. Various filtration methods can be effective in removing these chemicals from water. Understanding the gravity of the issue and adopting effective measures can contribute to safeguarding public health.

Health Impacts of PFAS Contamination in Water

Exposure to PFAS, or per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, has been linked to various adverse health effects in humans. When humans or animals consume these chemicals, whether through food or water, they are absorbed and can build up in the body. Since PFAS has a protracted presence in the human body, continuous exposure from various sources can cause levels to escalate. Over time, this can reach a critical point where individuals experience detrimental health consequences.

Research has demonstrated that two specific PFAS chemicals, PFOA and PFOS, have the potential to induce a variety of adverse effects. In laboratory animals, these substances have been shown to affect reproductive and developmental processes negatively, cause damage to the liver and kidneys, and impair the immune system. Additionally, PFOA and PFOS have been associated with animal tumor development.

In human studies, the most consistent outcome associated with PFAS exposure is elevated cholesterol levels among those exposed. There are also more limited findings linking exposure to changes in infant birth weights. Specifically, for PFOA, there is some evidence of a correlation with cancer, while PFOS has been connected with disruptions to thyroid hormone levels.

Given the potential ramifications on health, it is vital to be vigilant about PFAS exposure, mainly through drinking water, and take necessary precautions to mitigate the risks associated with these chemicals.

Removing PFAS From Drinking Water

Several technologies can be employed to effectively eliminate PFAS, particularly Perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and Perfluorooctane sulfonic acid (PFOS), from drinking water. Among these, ion exchange, activated carbon adsorption, and reverse osmosis have proven highly effective. For residential settings requiring whole-house filtration, ion exchange systems with a dual-tank design are emerging as a superior option due to their enhanced safety and effectiveness. This involves exchanging ions between the contaminants and a medium. At the same time, activated carbon adsorption traps contaminants on carbon particles, and reverse osmosis uses a semi-permeable membrane to filter out PFAS.

Reverse Osmosis: A Filtration System to Remove PFAS in Water

Reverse osmosis, a technology that employs a membrane for filtration, can be effectively utilized as a point-of-use system for purifying water from PFAS. This can be set up at specific water outlets, such as kitchen sinks, where it directly feeds a designated drinking water tap and appliances like ice makers or refrigerator water dispensers. The reverse osmosis system can be conveniently installed under the kitchen sink or in the basement beneath it, with a pipeline running up to supply the dedicated faucet.

To learn more about PFSAs, visit www.epa.gov/pfas/pfas-explained

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Reynolds Water Conditioning was established in 1931 and is Michigan’s oldest water conditioning treatment company. Still owned and operated by the Reynolds family, we take pride in providing the highest quality products at a cost-effective price. If your tap water lacks the quality you deserve, contact us today at 800-572-9575.

Written by the digital marketing team at Creative Programs & Systems: https://www.cpsmi.com/

Local Water Utilities Anticipate Higher Rates Due to New EPA Rule

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recently proposed a new rule that limits the amount of PFAS, also known as “forever chemicals,” in drinking water. PFAS are correlated to cancer, high cholesterol, birth defects, infertility, weakened childhood immunity, endocrine disruption, weight gain, and more. These man-made chemicals are found in 99.9 percent of the population’s blood. 

The EPA said, “This rule will prevent thousands of deaths and reduce tens of thousands of serious PFAS-attributable illnesses.”

The new regulations will require PFAS to be at zero parts per trillion or unitless in public water. The EPA says the changes will keep people safe and are aiming to complete regulation standards by the end of 2023. 

Patrick Berge, a city Public Works Director, said, “If the EPA imposes these new regulations, Public Works will have to figure out how to filter the PFAS out of the water and dispose of them safely. That would be an expense to the rate-payer. You can be talking anywhere from a few million to tens of millions.” 

Ben Harris, a Utility District General Manager, said, “It will cost millions,” and that it would be difficult to follow.

The EPA stated that the alterations are crucial to ensure the safety of individuals from PFAS. The agency intends to achieve the final regulation by the conclusion of this year.

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Reynolds Water Conditioning was established in 1931 and is Michigan’s oldest water conditioning treatment company. Still owned and operated by the Reynolds family, we take pride in providing the highest quality products at a cost-effective price. If your tap water lacks the quality you deserve, contact us today at 800-572-9575.

Written by the digital marketing team at Creative Programs & Systems: https://www.cpsmi.com

Jackson to Share Water with Napoleon Township Thanks to $5M Grant 

The city of Jackson will now share its water with over 6,800 Napoleon Township residents thanks to a $5 million federal grant from the Consolidated Appropriations Act. 

Due to limitations and environmental concerns about its own water system, the township inquired into this partnership, according to Jackson Spokesman Aaron Dimick. The new 16-inch water main will be constructed over roughly nine-and-a-half miles along M-50 to Napoleon Township. 

United States Representative Tim Walberg, R-Tipton, proposed the Napoleon/M-50 Water Main Transmission Project as part of his 2022 member-designated projects. 

Walberg said, “Having had many conversations with local officials and constituents throughout Jackson County, it is clear that Napoleon Township is in significant need of water system improvements as they are outgrowing their existing system.” 

There is no specific timeline for the project, but Napoleon Township will secure capital to cover the cost of using Jackson water. City officials said the partnership would not cause Jackson water customers to accrue any extra fees. 

Napoleon Township Supervisor Dan Glalagher said, “This grant for a new, consistent source of clean water will greatly help Napoleon’s future business development, enhance growth of the area, and provide a backbone for the community’s long range goals.” 

Jackson’s Director of Public Works, Mike Osborn, said, “Our water treatment plant has the capacity to produce 24 million gallons of treated water a day and we’re currently only producing five million a day, so our facility definitely has the ability to be a regional water source.” 

A total of 16 groundwater wells are tapped into for Jackson’s water, which goes into the Earth about 400 feet below the surface of an underground aquifer. Then, the water is transferred by pump to a water treatment plant, where it is cleaned and tested. 

Reynolds Water Conditioning was established in 1931 and is Michigan’s oldest water conditioning treatment company. Still owned and operated by the Reynolds family, we take pride in providing the highest quality products at a cost-effective price. If your tap water lacks the quality you deserve, contact us today at 800-572-9575.

Written by the digital marketing team at Creative Programs & Systems: https://www.cpsmi.com/ 

Water Softener Basics

A water softener is an appliance specifically made for ridding calcium and magnesium from water. All water is not the same, and it’s dubbed as “hard” when it has high amounts of magnesium and calcium.  Conversely, “soft” water does not have these minerals, or they are barely detectable.

Lakes and streams naturally have soft water. Underground water is usually hard in regions with high amounts of chalk, gypsum, and limestone. Water softeners remove these mineral components absorbed from the earth, making your water soft. 

Some water softeners work through either an ion exchange or salt-free devices. An ion exchange is the most common type of water softener, using sodium to replace calcium and magnesium metal ions. A large tank is filled with salt pellets, and as the water fills the tank, the sodium ions react with the calcium and magnesium, making it soft.

Salt-free devices use a mechanical filter to eliminate calcium but do not work with magnesium. These devices let water pass through a semipermeable membrane which rids it of roughly 98% of contaminants.  

Some benefits of water softeners include:

– Removing orange or yellow stains on sinks, shower walls, toilets, etc.

– Improving the mineral balance of the water

– Purifying toxins

– Reducing appliance repairs and unnecessary replacements

– Making general cleaning easier  

– Transforming unpotable water into potable water

– Eliminating scale build-up

– Minimizing eczema

Overall, water softeners can be a beneficial addition to your home. By purifying your water, you can effortlessly remove minerals that can negatively impact your home, body, and overall health.

Are you looking for a water purifier or need assistance choosing the best option? Contact the water conditioning experts at Reynolds Water today.

Reynolds Water Conditioning was established in 1931 and is Michigan’s oldest water conditioning treatment company. Still owned and operated by the Reynolds family, we take pride in providing the highest quality products at a cost-effective price. If your tap water lacks the quality you deserve, contact us today at 800-572-9575.

Written by the digital marketing team at Creative Programs & Systems: https://www.cpsmi.com/