Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is hardness?

Hardness is predominantly magnesium and calcium that occurs in a water supply. Water absorbs these minerals as it passes through the earth's crust. Hardness is noticed primarily as spots on plumbing fixtures and automobiles. A water softener is required to remove hardness.

2. What is Iron?

Iron occurs frequently in the water supply of the Eastern Shore. Two types of iron exist: ferrous iron or clear water iron and ferric iron or red water iron. Clear water iron is the most common and is noticeable by the red or orange stains that appear in bathtubs, toilets, clothes, etc. This form of iron is removed most effectively by a water softener. Red water iron occurs when clear water iron is oxidized (reacts with oxygen) as it leaves the water supply. Red water iron is very rare on the Eastern Shore and should be addressed as each circumstance warrants. This form of iron is usually a symptom of another problem.

3. What is a water softener?

A water softener is a piece of equipment filled with a certain media called resin. As the water passes thru the softener, iron and hardness minerals have a natural affinity or attraction to the resin beads. After a pre-determined number of gallons have been treated, the resin is full of iron and hardness therefore requiring a cleaning or regeneration. During the regeneration process, a strong solution of salty water called brine is introduced into the resin bed. This briny solution makes the iron and hardness minerals release from the resin and go to waste, leaving a clean or regenerated resin bed. This cycle takes place as often as needed providing the resident with years of treated water.

4. What is the "rotten-egg" smell?

Hydrogen sulfide is the cause of the "rotten-egg" or Sulphur smell that occurs in much of the well water on the Eastern Shore. Hydrogen sulfide is a naturally occurring bacterium that forms as a gas in the well water. It is most effectively removed by a slight administration of chlorine solution into the water lines at the point of entry into the building. This is done with a chlorine feed system. Other less effective methods are available based on the discretion of the homeowner.

5. Why does my skin feel "slimy" or like I can't get the soap off?

Hard water effects bathing in two ways: 1) Inhibits the complete rinsing of soap off the body; 2) Clogs skin pores not allowing the natural oils to escape. Typically, someone will notice a marked difference in the "feel" of his or her skin when done bathing with softened water. This is normal due to the complete rinsing off the soap and the unclogging of the pores. Usually, a good rinse with hot water will leave a naturally clean feeling.

6. How much salt and what type of salt will my softener use?

The softeners that we sell use salt, or regenerate, based on the number of gallons that are treated. Most of our average residential softener systems will use no more than one 50 lb. bag of salt per month. Water-Right systems require extra course solar salt crystals without any additional additives. We offer salt delivery and maintenance contracts for customers who wish to have hassle-free water treatment.

7. How much chlorine will my chlorine feed system use?

Most of the residential chlorine feed systems that we install will use the ratio of 1 quart of household bleach to 15 gallons of water in the storage container. Fifteen gallons of chlorine solution will usually have to be replenished every sixty days or so.

8. How much does a treatment system cost?

Numerous parameters affect the type of system that will best suit the needs of each individual residence. We can give a homeowner an accurate price quote within minutes of testing the water and inspecting the jobsite. In many ways, water treatment is cost effective: 1) Eliminates the need for replacing stained or corroded fixtures, sinks, or toilets; 2) Keeps clothes, especially whites, from becoming dingy and discolored; 3) Replaces the daily cost and headache of bottled drinking water. We also offer a full range of financial services from rentals to financing options. If you need quality water, we can provide a system that will meet that need and be cost effective.

8. What is the guarantee?

Please visit our guarantee page for more information.