The presence of excessive calcium in water, often referred to as hard water, can lead to a variety of undesirable effects. These include scale buildup in pipes and appliances, reduced efficiency of soaps and detergents, and a generally unpleasant taste. Addressing this issue involves implementing methods to decrease the concentration of calcium ions present in the water supply.
Lowering the amount of calcium offers numerous advantages, extending the lifespan of plumbing systems and water-using appliances like water heaters and dishwashers. Softened water also improves the effectiveness of cleaning agents, requiring less product to achieve the desired result, leading to cost savings. Historically, various techniques have been employed to mitigate the effects of hardness, evolving from simple boiling to sophisticated ion exchange systems.