Water softeners have long been a household staple for tackling hard water issues, from removing minerals on appliances to softer skin after a shower.
So what’s the deal with them being banned in certain states?
Back in 2001, the primary reason was environmental concern. Older salt-based systems wasted gallons of water during regeneration and released high salt levels into wastewater, harming ecosystems and infrastructure.
Thankfully, current-day water softeners have upgraded technology and are significantly better than they were. States like Texas and California, which outright banned water softeners in 2001 and 2005, are now more lenient about their laws and regulations.
In this blog, we’ll ease some of the concerns you might have heard, which states have restrictions, and what alternatives are available to keep your water clean and eco-friendly while these restrictions are still in place in your state.
Myth: Water Softeners Are Bad.
Water softener technology has improved so much that there are a lot of misconceptions and dated information about it.
So first, let’s talk about how it works a little bit.
Salt-based water softeners work by replacing calcium and magnesium ions with sodium ions through a process called ion exchange. After a set amount of time, the systems go through regular regeneration cycles, which flush out the accumulated minerals using a salt brine.
Back in the early days, water softeners would regenerate on a timer, without any regard or concern about how much water was used. This caused a lot of water waste and an uncontrollable amount of salt in the wastewater.
Now, current water softener systems, like the Aquasure Harmony Series, track water usage, regenerate on a timed schedule per water usage, and are monitored. In other words, they don’t waste water if the system isn’t being used. The softeners focus on efficiency, future-proofing, and regulated water usage.
The environmental impact is nowhere near as significant as it was. And we’re taking every measure to ensure our systems are safe to drink for your health, the environment, and future generations.
Huge agricultural states like California, Texas, Michigan, Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Connecticut have taken steps to regulate or ban these systems to minimize their environmental footprint, but have lessened these bans since filtration companies have reduced the strain on our water.
States with Water Softener Restrictions
California
California has some of the strictest regulations on water softeners but ultimately left it up to the counties and cities to decide how they want to handle their citizens’ water softener usage.
A few counties have outright banned salt-based systems, while others require demand-initiated regeneration (DIR) systems that only regenerate when necessary, reducing water and salt waste.
Texas
In Texas, cities like Austin have implemented restrictions to ensure water softeners are efficient and eco-friendly. DIR systems are encouraged to minimize water waste and salt discharge.
Michigan
Michigan has seen cities buy back older, inefficient water softeners to reduce water waste. The state emphasizes the importance of upgrading to modern, demand-based systems.
Minnesota and Wisconsin
These states focus on protecting their freshwater lakes and rivers. Regulations aim to reduce salt runoff, which can harm aquatic ecosystems and drinking water quality.
Connecticut
Connecticut has also joined the movement, with restrictions on salt-based systems to protect its water resources and infrastructure.
States Lessening Water Softener Restrictions
Thanks to current technology, states that completely banned water softeners are now lessening their regulations.
Texas, for example, implemented a statewide ban to ease the salt distribution in wastewater. Now, all the state requires is Demand Initiated Regulation, a standard feature of water softeners anyway.
You can program your softener according to water usage, reducing salt use, and ensuring the softener works efficiently.
There are several benefits to modern-day water softeners:
- Saves water: less water is needed to clean your dishes, laundry, bathroom, and kitchen
- Protects plumbing: Water heater, sink fixtures, and pipes are not susceptible to hard mineral deposits
- Improved Efficiency: Appliances run smoother, more efficiently, and last longer
- Less Soap Scum: Less cleaning, makes sink fixtures look good as new for longer
- Softer Skin & Hair: Less visits to the hair stylist to fix your dry, split ends AND an improved skincare routine
Alternatives to Salt-Based Water Softeners
There are several alternatives to soften your water if you live in any of these states, or if you’re just simply looking for a salt-free option, these would work for you too.
Salt-Free Water Conditioners
Salt-free systems, like the Aquasure Serene Series, don’t remove minerals but instead prevent scale buildup by altering the structure of calcium and magnesium ions. While they don’t soften water in the traditional sense, they’re highly effective at descaling and are compliant with most state regulations.
Pros:
- No water waste during regeneration
- Environmentally friendly
- Low maintenance
- Salt-free alternative
- Ideal for city water
- Safe for plants
Cons:
- Doesn’t soften water for skin and hair benefits
- May require additional filtration for contaminants
- Not good for well water
Further reading:
- Salt-Based vs. Salt-Free Water Softeners: Which Is Right for Me?
- Pros and Cons of Salt-Free Water Conditioners
- Ultimate Guide to Salt-Free Water Conditioners
Potassium Chloride
Water softening pellets and crystals aren’t always salt. Potassium is an environmentally friendly alternative to sodium. The con? The price. While salt sits at a cool $7-10 per 40lb bag, potassium could easily be anywhere from $35-45 per 40lb bag.
The cost is mainly because of the resources needed to make potassium chloride. Unless you live in one of the states with restrictions or have a serious concern with salt in your water, then it’d be more effective to use water-softening salt.
Are Water Softeners Bad for Your Health or Plumbing?
Here’s the lowdown:
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Health:
- Pros: There are loads of benefits for a salt-based softener. It removes the destructive minerals that damage your hair and scalp and irritate your skin. Those with sensitive skin like psoriasis or eczema see less redness after using softened water.
- Cons: Salt-based systems add a small amount of sodium to your water, which is generally safe for most people. It’s the equivalent of a pinch of salt in a gallon of water.
However, those on low-sodium diets may want to consider salt-free alternatives. A reverse osmosis system is a great alternative. RO water is the purest drinking water you can get. It tastes great, healthier than standard tap water, and all the concerns you have disappear.
- Plumbing: Salt-based systems can protect your pipes from scale buildup, but if your pipes are old, they’ll likely be corroded in the long run. Make sure your plumbing is updated or in good condition.
Any relatively new homes are generally safe from water softener salt. Homeowners actually see improvements in water usage, and their appliances’ efficiency, and their pipes are protected from hard scaling and clogging.
If you’re unsure, definitely connect with your local plumber to check the state of your plumbing.
Common Water Softener Questions
Are water softeners bad for the environment?
Older traditional salt-based systems can harm the environment by releasing salty wastewater into ecosystems and wasting water during regeneration. However many of the systems today are future-proofing their systems, allowing controlled water and salt usage.
Got an old water softener? Upgrade your softener to reduce costs and improve your plumbing!
Are water softeners bad for septic systems?
Salt-based systems can increase the salinity of wastewater, which may harm the bacteria essential for septic tank function. Salt-free systems are a better option for septic users.
Are water softeners banned in California?
In many California cities, yes. Salt-based systems are either banned or restricted, with demand-initiated systems being the preferred softener technology. Many softeners today use demand-initiated technology.
Do salt-free water softeners work?
Yes, salt-free systems like the Aquasure Serene & Serene Lite Series effectively prevent scale buildup and are compliant with state regulations.
Choose the Right System
Water softeners are essential for many households, but it’s important to choose a system that aligns with both your needs and environmental regulations. If you live in a state with restrictions, consider upgrading to one of our Harmony Series Timed Regeneration Water Softeners or exploring salt-free alternatives.
By staying informed and choosing the right system, you can enjoy soft water in ways that work best for you and your area.
