The importance of having water cannot be overstated. We use it when cooking or washing our hands in the kitchen and we use it when taking a shower or bath. It's even used to keep our grass and plants alive with the help of sprinkler systems. But while water is a critical part of keeping our homes alive, not all water is good water. Let’s take a look at how smart systems installed by plumbers can make a big impact in terms of your water quality.
Why are Smart Systems Beneficial?
At the end of the day, smart systems offer you the opportunity to reduce your utility bills. This is because they are energy-efficient. Smart systems help you save energy by automating tasks like turning off lights or adjusting the temperature when you aren’t home. They can even turn off electronics when you aren’t using them. Because a major benefit of smart systems is that you can personalize settings for different times of the day, your contribution to a more sustainable lifestyle also helps you create a more comfortable home environment.
Keep in mind that homebuyers seek out properties that have smart systems installed. They, too, find desirability in being able to remotely control their house. Austin home renovation experts may even tell you that smart systems are a way to future-proof your home. After all, by investing in them now, you have the latest technology that is already prepared for eventual upgrades.
What is Hard Water?
Did you know that hard water is bad for your home? Hard water is water that has high levels of calcium and magnesium—minerals that accumulate in the water supply. It can cause various issues, including destroying your hot water appliances and reducing the effectiveness of cleaning products. While the impact of hard water is a gradual process, you are likely running water through your home several times a day for different activities. Over time, your pipes will clog and corrode, leading to the need for costly repairs. Keep an eye on your utility bills because an increase could be indicative of your appliances no longer running efficiently.
Austin home renovation professionals find that signs of hard water include:
- Build-up of soap scum and residue on your sinks and bathtubs
- Dishes will come out of your dishwasher streaky
- Reduced water pressure and flow
- Clothes will come out of your washing machine stained
- Your skin could end up feeling itchy and dry
What is a Water Softener?
Water softeners are installed to combat hard water, removing calcium and magnesium from your water supply through ion exchange. During ion exchange, positively charged ions are attracted and eliminated.
There are many water softeners on the market to choose from. One brand that Austin home renovation experts recommend is NuvoH2O. This is a salt-free water softener system that works by using compounds like citric acid to prevent hard water minerals from sticking to surfaces. Through the process of chelation, NuvoH2O binds and isolates the minerals. It is a whole-home solution for not just prevention, but also remediation, given that it can reverse existing hard water issues.
Why Should You Use DROP?
DROP is a smart system that will shut off your water if they detect water running for a certain length of time. You are able to conveniently control this system right from an app on your phone so that you can proactively protect your home.
When a plumber gets you set up with a DROP water system during an Austin home renovation, you gain more than the ability to check your water flow. You also achieve greater water quality. DROP treats a variety of contaminants that can be found in both your city and well water. With a whole range of products that cater to your home’s unique water system, DROP safeguards you from high water bills and prevents water damage.