When choosing a water softener for commercial use, you don’t necessarily want to call up your plumber guy down the road, as you might for a residential system. Commercial water softeners MUST be properly sized and installed for the specific needs of the business. Otherwise, you could run into big problems.
In this post, we provide tips on how to properly choose a water softener for commercial use – and what can go wrong if you choose the wrong system.
What Can Go Wrong?
A lot, frankly.
Commercial water softeners can be a big investment for a business. And, if the system isn’t properly matched for the needs of the building, then the costs can quickly balloon out of control.
Let’s consider some possible scenarios:
- System is sized too small: If your system is too small for your business, then it won’t be able to keep up with the water demands. This means you’ll constantly be running out of soft water, causing havoc on your equipment and practically defeating the purpose of installing the system in the first place. If you have to have a whole different system installed again, it will cost you.
- System is sized too big: Don’t make the mistake of thinking that bigger is better! A system that’s too big could result in a massive waste of water and salt – and MONEY.
- System is terrible: If you choose a cheap, shoddy system from an unknown manufacturer, then it could come back to bite you. Sure, you might save a few bucks up front. But if you constantly need repairs, then you’ll be spending way more money over time – especially when you inevitably decide to replace the whole thing. Also, a constantly malfunctioning water softener for commercial use could interfere with your business operations too, costing you even more.
With that being said, let’s look at the ways to properly evaluate and compare commercial water softeners.
How to Choose a Water Softener for Commercial Use
Choosing a water softener for commercial use doesn’t have to be scary! Use these tips to ensure you get the right system for your needs, budget and building.
1) Choose a reputable manufacturer
Fleck, SoftPro, Culligan – these are some of the big names in the industry, which you can trust to deliver dependable quality, efficiency and water-softening performance.
If you’re new to water softeners, then do your homework to research the manufacturers as you compare systems. Be wary of little-known companies or basement-made systems being sold on third-party sites like eBay. Stick to the reputable manufacturers with clear track records of producing high-quality systems for commercial use!
2) Size it properly
The size of your water softener MUST be based on specific calculations of your water hardness and water usage. You can use a water hardness test kit to measure the water yourself, but in general you’ll probably want to rely on a skilled water specialist.
An experienced water softener contractor will be able to recommend the right size system (measured in grain capacity and flow rates) for your needs.
3) Get the efficiency you want
A high-efficiency water softener will typically cost you more upfront, but it can save you a lot more over time, especially if your business uses a lot of water.
High-efficiency systems use less salt and water with each regeneration, and they only regenerate when needed, based on real-time water flow needs. This savings can really add up.
4) Protect your investment
Does the system come with a warranty? How long does the coverage last? Are all the components covered, including the valves and tanks?
Look for a warranty that will protect your investment in case anything goes wrong.
Get matched! Try this water softener calculator
Use this calculator when you’re ready to start evaluating systems. Simply answer a few questions about your needs and you’ll be matched with water softeners for your business.