Using sodium vis-a-vis potassium in water softeners

One of the most common methods of water softening is to use an ion exchange process that substitutes the minerals causing the hard water with sodium crystals. This process is very effective and has become one of the most popular types of water softeners on the market. Since it is very likely that small amounts of sodium remain in the water, there has been some concern over the effect this has on drinking water. An alternative to sodium that is just as effective is potassium chloride.

Potassium in water softeners is the obvious alternative to sodium since they are both effective at removing the minerals that cause hard water. When you substitute sodium with potassium chloride you don't lose anything since it works just like sodium. In fact, you gain significant benefits to your health and the environment when you use potassium chloride.

Vitamins and minerals are necessary to sustain human life. While we need sodium to live, many people obtain more than enough sodium in their diets. Even the insignificant amount of sodium that may flow into a home's water supply can prove dangerous to individuals who suffer from high blood pressure. Potassium is beneficial to the diet because it contributes to adequate muscle, nerve, kidney, and heart functioning.

Another concern of using sodium in water softeners is to the environment. Since the excess sodium that is flushed from the system is released into the water pipes and subsequently into the drainage system, there is the concern of the effect sodium has on plants and the environment. One benefit of using potassium to lower the hardness of the water is the effect that it has on the environment. Since potassium is derived from a plant, it provides a natural source to flowers and plants, and it will not harm the soil.

There is one disadvantage of using potassium in the water softening process that you will have to consider. Some water softeners provide salt on a regular basis as part of their service. If you have to perform this task yourself, you may find that potassium chloride is too much for you to bear. The average cost of a 40 pound bag of sodium is less than $5. The same bag of potassium chloride can cost twice as much.

It’s a common idea, but those items that provide the most health benefits generally cost more. This is where you have to decide what is important to you and whether or not you want to make the sacrifice to make the switch to potassium chloride.
 



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