Happy customers are repeat customers. And, while some homeowners may know the term “hard water,” many are unaware of the significant damage it can cause, especially to their water heaters. Pros can keep their customers happy and boost their bottom line by bridging this knowledge gap with information about the benefits of pairing water heater and water softener installations to protect the homeowner’s investment.
WHAT IS HARD WATER AND HOW CAN IT DAMAGE WATER HEATERS?
Hard water is caused by a high concentration of minerals such as calcium and magnesium that results in scale buildup on faucets, showerheads, drinking glasses and plumbing appliances. Hard water is widespread across the United States with higher mineral concentrations found in the Midwest, the Southwest and parts of the Northeast. Homes with wells that draw from areas with limestone are also prone to harder water than municipal supplies.
4 WAYS SCALE ACCUMULATION CAUSES PROBLEMS FOR THE HOMEOWNER AND THEIR WATER HEATER
-
Accelerates Scale Buildup: Minerals adhere to the heating components and inner walls of the water heater tank.
-
Lowers Efficiency: Scale buildup acts as an insulator, forcing the unit to work harder and run longer to heat the same amount of water. This results in higher energy bills.
-
Can Cause Premature Component Failure: The extra strain causes heating elements and anode rods in the water heater to break down faster, requiring more frequent replacements. In severe cases, parts can overheat, leading to burnout or even a leaking tank.
-
Increases Service Calls: A heater affected by scale needs to be flushed and cleaned more often to maintain functionality.
By recommending adding a water softener solution with every water heater installation in a hard water area, you provide an ideal solution that prevents scale buildup and can extend the life of the appliances. This approach not only solves a pressing problem for your customer but also enhances your reputation and your bottom line.
HOW WATER SOFTENERS REDUCE SCALE BUILDUP IN WATER HEATERS
Water softeners work through a process of ion exchange. As water flows through a resin bed inside the softener, minerals such as calcium and magnesium are swapped for sodium or potassium ions, reducing the mineral content that causes scale.
The benefits for the water heater are immediate and long-lasting: reduced maintenance and a longer operational life span. Plus, the home’s entire plumbing system experiences less scale accumulation, leading to better overall water quality for dishwashing, bathing and laundry.
WHAT TO LOOK FOR IN A WATER SOFTENER
When advising homeowners, pros should recommend a unit with:
-
Appropriate Capacity: Ensure the capacity takes into account the household’s water usage and the hardness level of its water.
-
High Efficiency: Look for efficient regeneration cycles to minimize salt and water consumption.
-
User-Friendly Controls: Reliable, easy-to-use controls and clear maintenance indicators are essential.
-
System Compatibility: The softener must be compatible with the existing plumbing and water heating systems.
GET TO KNOW THE GE PROFILE™ PROFESSIONAL SMART VALVE WATER SOFTENER
Equipped with smart innovations, GE Profile Professional Smart Valve Water Softeners are the perfect pairing for GE Profile GEOSPRING® Heat Pump Water Heaters. Both appliances feature smart technology powered by the GE Appliances SmartHQ app.
-
Smart Valve With Leak Detection: Smart valve sends instant smartphone alerts for continuous water flow or when a potential leak is detected.
-
Remote Water Shutoff: Homeowners can use the mobile app to remotely shut off water to their home.
-
Vacation Mode: When homeowners are away, SmartHQ will send alerts when continuous water flow is detected at any flow rate.
-
Salt Reminders: Mobile app alerts tell homeowners when the water softener salt level is low.
-
Water Flow Monitoring: Homeowners can view water usage and set custom flow alerts.
Available in two sizes — 45,000- and 55,000-grain capacity — GE Profile water softeners can comfortably treat household water for families of six or more. The softeners come with an option that includes integrated filtration that reduces the flow of chlorine, sand and sediment to every tap in the home. They also feature robust 1" NPT metal plumbing connections and dual O-rings for extra protection. Plus, they are easy to clean!
5 COMMON HOMEOWNER QUESTIONS ABOUT WATER SOFTENERS
-
Can I add a water softener to my current water heater?
Yes, a water softener can be installed without replacing an existing water heater. The included 1" connectors on GE Profile water softeners can conveniently accommodate both 3/4" and 1-1/4" plumbing.
-
What kind of maintenance will the water softener need?
The GE Profile Professional Smart Valve Water Softener requires very little maintenance. The SmartHQ app will remind homeowners when their water softener salt levels are getting low, and the brine tank is separated, making it easy to remove and rinse clean.
-
How long will a GE Profile Professional Smart Valve Water Softener last?
The resin tanks on GE Profile water softeners come with a 10-year warranty. With regular maintenance, these water softeners can be expected to last for many years, reducing scale buildup throughout your entire home and extending the life of all your water fixtures and appliances.
-
How can I be sure I need a water softener?
Check the faucets and showerheads in your home for chalky white or off-white deposits, known as mineral scale. You may also find buildup on dishes. Hard water can also reduce soap’s ability to lather and cause dry skin and hair. To confirm the mineral level in water, purchase a test kit — available from home improvement stores.
-
Are there alternative solutions to buying a water softener?
While a water softener is the only product to address hard water concerns, water filtration systems can reduce contaminants in the water like chlorine, sand, and sediment for better quality water at every tap.
THE PERFECT PAIR: GE PROFILE WATER HEATERS AND WATER SOFTENERS
By pairing GE Profile GEOSPRING Heat Pump Water Heaters with GE Profile Professional Smart Valve Water Softeners, plumbing pros deliver a comprehensive system that ensures energy efficiency, peace of mind and reliable water quality for homeowners. The result is a better-protected home and a healthier bottom line for pros.
Interested in offering GE Profile water softeners as part of your whole-home lineup? Contact us today to get started.