Using too much soap is a hard habit to break. When first using softened water for household cleaning, a good way to adjust to the difference in cleaning efficiency is to use as little soap as possible. Try using a quarter cup rather than the cup or more that may have been necessary prior to the installation of a water softener. If necessary, gradually increase the quantity used to produce the desired results.

You don't have to be a hydrologist to understand the basic principles behind water filtration and water softening. Here's an abridged version of what happens when you filter or soften water.

Filtering water involves separating mineral particles, like particulates, iron, hydrogen sulfide or other organic matter from H2O. By passing water through a "filter bed" or "media bed," these granular particles are trapped - and clean water passes through the bed.

Softening water involves something called "ion exchange" to remove dissolved minerals - like calcium, magnesium, iron and manganese - that can't be trapped in a filter bed. Softeners use fresh resin beads with sodium attached to the resin. As water enters the tank, dissolved calcium and magnesium are attracted to the resin. The resin passes up the sodium in exchange for the dissolved chemicals and the water is then rid of these impurities.

Filtering or softening, which do you need?

Whether you use a filter or a softener depends on whether the contaminates in your water are particles or dissolved minerals. Culligan® Water Filters remove the substances from your water that can cause staining, foul odors and the need for excessive cleanup. Household chores become easier because your water is working with you, not against you.

To find out what's ailing your water, contact your local Culligan® Dealer for a free water analysis or our free water test kit.