Does a Water Softener Affect Aquarium?

[TheChad]

Hey all,

I am looking at buying a whole house water softener for my home, But before I do, I wanted to find out if it would affect my aquarium at all? I use RO/DI from my tap, so I don't know if that will be affected by a softener either?

P.S. If it makes any difference, I was going to use Potasium Instead of Salt in the Softener.

Thanks for the help,

-TheChad

 

[Steven Pro]

Water softeners actually improve the performance of RO units, so it would be a fine addition.

 

[tropicalfish]

Plus, it could also help reduce the white hard water buildup everywhere.... around the hood, sinks, and stuff....

 

[roka64]

I have one. I am on well water and can tell when the salt runs out, the dishes, in the dishwasher get more build up. I don't know the difference between a Potasium or Salt softener.

 

[TheChad]

I have one. I am on well water and can tell when the salt runs out, the dishes, in the dishwasher get more build up. I don't know the difference between a Potasium or Salt softener.

From the research I have done, the Potasium lasts longer, is slightly more expensive than Salt, and doesn't have that slimy feeling that salt can give...

-TheChad

 

[roka64]

Hmmm, I haven't noticed a slimey feeling. My 40Lbs of salt lasts months. I think they only cost about $4-5 for a 40Lbs bag. I'll have to pay attention next time I buy some.

 

[TheChad]

Hmmm, I haven't noticed a slimey feeling. My 40Lbs of salt lasts months. I think they only cost about $4-5 for a 40Lbs bag. I'll have to pay attention next time I buy some.

Potasium is about $8-9 a 40lb bag, and lasts longer.

I think the slimy feeling depends on a few factors, and Is only noticed when you first get a softener, after ahwile you don't notice it anymore.

-TheChad

 

[roka64]

Hmmm, I haven't noticed a slimey feeling. My 40Lbs of salt lasts months. I think they only cost about $4-5 for a 40Lbs bag. I'll have to pay attention next time I buy some.

Potasium is about $8-9 a 40lb bag, and lasts longer.

I think the slimy feeling depends on a few factors, and Is only noticed when you first get a softener, after ahwile you don't notice it anymore.

-TheChad

LOL! Yeah, you probably are right. I did notice, the lemonade I made in Mytrly beach (non-well) tasted a lot different than at thome...