There are many techniques involved in treating and filtering water to ensure it is safe to drink. Filtering water is necessary because there are many particles of bacteria and other harmful contaminants present in natural water that may make it hazardous to ingest. One reliable and important method for treating water is the ion exchange system. Learn more about the ion exchange system and how it works below.
What Is an Ion Exchange System?
The ion exchange system is a water filtering or chemical treatment method that involves removing unwanted contaminants to soften the water and keep it clean. Unwanted ions such as nitrate, fluoride, calcium, magnesium, and sulfate are exchanged for more desirable ions with a similar charge, such as sodium. This exchange makes the water more drinkable or soft.
How an Ion Exchange System Works
The exchange process occurs between a solid (resin or a zeolite) and a liquid, such as water. Resin is an organic synthetic compound that is capable of exchanging ions. It’s important to note that cations and anions, which are two different ions, are needed to help demineralize the water. Cations have a positive charge, and anions have a negative charge.
When the process occurs, the ionic contaminants in the water are swapped for better ions that stick to the solid material. When the positively charged ions touch the resin, they are exchanged with the other positively charged ions on the resin’s surface. These are typically sodium ions.
The same swap occurs for the anion exchange process, resulting in healthier negatively charged ions being placed in the water. For example, fluoride will be replaced with chloride and so on. The dirt collected from the resin is flushed out in the process, leaving you with softer water.
You must recharge resin with compounds such as sodium chloride or hydrochloric acid.
Why You May Need an Ion Exchange System Treatment
If you need home tap water filtration, the ion exchange method treatment is appropriate for you. This is especially true if you need to transition from hard water to soft water. You will feel safer and cleaner going through the water filtration process when you use the ion exchange method.
United Waterworks is here to assist with all your water filtration needs. Contact us today to learn more about our services and offerings.