I have recently installed a Duotec 750 dual tank water softener, (non-electric, automatic regeneration) using block salt. These come in four different models depending on water hardness. The model fitted states that it caters for hardness up to 430ppm, but according to my water company website, the maximum hardness in this area last year was 264ppm, mean 260ppm (Total Hardness as CaCO3)
When I queried the use of the model supplied, suggesting that I should have had the next model which caters for hardness up to 320ppm, my softener supplier says that the hardness figure quoted by the water company does not include the effect of magnesium in the water, which takes the total hardness to over 300ppm average (which is still within the range of the next model). The water company water quality report does not mention magnesium, although it seems to include every other known chemical.
I am concerned that, if the model supplied is regenerating more frequently than necessary, I will not only be using too much salt, but will also have more sodium in my drinking water, as the supplier insists that I do not need a separate drinking supply, as the level of sodium in the water after softening is still below the recommended level. (What is that level? I've seen 150mg/l and 200mg/l). However, I note that all sites, including DWI, still recommend a separate drinking water supply.
Having been unable to speak with anyone at the water company who knows anything about this issue:
1. Can anyone tell me the limit for sodium in drinking water?
2. If I change my softener for the 'smallest' one that only caters for hardness up to 230ppm, wheareas my average is 260ppm, is that likely to be very inefficient?
3. If my water company quotes a total hardness (as CaCO3) figure of 260ppm(mg/l) does that include the magnesium content.?
When I queried the use of the model supplied, suggesting that I should have had the next model which caters for hardness up to 320ppm, my softener supplier says that the hardness figure quoted by the water company does not include the effect of magnesium in the water, which takes the total hardness to over 300ppm average (which is still within the range of the next model). The water company water quality report does not mention magnesium, although it seems to include every other known chemical.
I am concerned that, if the model supplied is regenerating more frequently than necessary, I will not only be using too much salt, but will also have more sodium in my drinking water, as the supplier insists that I do not need a separate drinking supply, as the level of sodium in the water after softening is still below the recommended level. (What is that level? I've seen 150mg/l and 200mg/l). However, I note that all sites, including DWI, still recommend a separate drinking water supply.
Having been unable to speak with anyone at the water company who knows anything about this issue:
1. Can anyone tell me the limit for sodium in drinking water?
2. If I change my softener for the 'smallest' one that only caters for hardness up to 230ppm, wheareas my average is 260ppm, is that likely to be very inefficient?
3. If my water company quotes a total hardness (as CaCO3) figure of 260ppm(mg/l) does that include the magnesium content.?