When building a custom home with our clients at Canterbury Homes, we ask them to make a list of their needs and wants. Canterbury Homes Inc. builds custom luxury homes in affluent communities in Edmonton and Sherwood Park, and often wish lists will include luxury items such as therapeutic bath spas, on demand hot water and top-of-the-line appliances. Our clients want their homes to have high-quality, decadent features, and that applies to their water as well. Water softeners and reverse osmosis filtration systems are must-haves for our clients.
Why Our Clients Request Water Softeners in their Custom Homes
Alberta communities such as Sherwood Park and Edmonton have hard water. While the taste of our water isn’t affected by the minerals that create hard water, many other household items are.
- A crusty build-up will appear on plumbing fixtures (shower heads, faucets) over time.
- Dishes will have spots on them or not come clean.
- Hard water residue can cause appliances to break.
- Skin will feel dry and itchy after washing.
- Clothes can feel stiff after washing.
- Pipes can clog with mineral build-up.
When building a custom home, the last thing our clients want are their beautiful fixtures developing crusty build-up or their top-of-the-line appliances breaking down prematurely. Water softeners remove the hard mineral ions from the water and replace them with softer ions, so their skin feels softer and cleaner after washing and ensures that their hand-picked appliances perform well for years to come. In order to maintain clean water, it is worth spending some time with a plumbing technician to eliminate these hard water problems.
Why Homeowners Request Reverse Osmosis Filtration Systems
Another item that our clients frequently request is a reverse osmosis water filtration system. While Sherwood Park and Edmonton’s municipally supplied water is held to high standards, many of us would rather purchase filtered water to drink and cook with. After all, even city water can contain contaminants and chemicals, or give off a foul odor at certain times of year. Reverse osmosis filtration systems ensure that our clients’ household water is clean, safe, and pure.
What is a Reverse Osmosis Filtration System?
There are several varieties of water filtration systems:
- Activated carbon filters
- Ion exchange filters
- UV filtration systems
- Infrared filters
- Reverse osmosis systems
Of these, reverse osmosis systems are the most popular and effective water filters on the market. In this system, cold water passes through at least one pre-filter, which removes dirt and sediment. Another filter removes unwanted chemicals. Treated water then moves into the hub of the unit, which contains a semi-permeable membrane. The membrane removes even more harmful contaminants and particles. After filtration, water leaves the system and flows to your taps on demand.
Contaminants commonly found in tap water include:
- Dirt
- Rust
- Chlorine
- Iron
- Arsenic
- Nitrates/nitrites
- Magnesium
- Sodium
- Bacteria
- Viruses
You can have the system installed for your whole house; however, our clients often choose a point-of-use system that provides their kitchen tap and fridge’s ice machine with pure, filtered water.
The Benefits of Reverse Osmosis Water Filtration Systems
There are many reasons to choose reverse osmosis filtration systems over other types:
- They are fully automated. No turning it on and off
- They are easy to clean
- Compact size. Neatly fits under the kitchen sink
- Inexpensive
- Low maintenance
- They do not consume power
Superior home water quality also means less money spent on bottled water and confidence in your water quality even if the municipal supply is affected by harmful bacteria, chemicals, or other contaminants.
The Downside of Reverse Osmosis Water Filtration Systems
If you’re wondering about the downsides of reverse osmosis filtration systems, there is one aspect that our clients mention: The unattractive tap mount that comes with the system. This is easily remedied by purchasing a more attractive option from a local hardware store. There are elegant designs available that will complement the luxurious decor of an elegant estate home.
Choose a Water Softener and Reverse Osmosis System for Pure, Clean Water
Whether you’re building a custom home or are concerned about your home’s current water supply, a water softener and reverse osmosis filtration system can be the solution you need. Rest assured knowing that your water is clean, safe, and not harming your fixtures and appliances with these two in-demand plumbing items.
Call Always Plumbing & Heating at 780-489-8118 or contact us online today to discuss your water quality options for your new home.
