Can You Drink Tap Water if You Have a Water Softener?

Limescale-free kettle? Shower feels like a spa? Awesome! But wait...can you drink that softened water? Short answer: Yes, usually. But there's a catch! It depends on the types of water softeners (like ion exchange or reverse osmosis). Keep reading to find out why!

Drinking Water and Water Softeners: What You Need to Know

So, you've got a water softener at home, or maybe you're thinking about getting one. But the big question lingers: can you drink the water? The short answer is yes—but there's more to it than that. Water softeners, from ion exchange systems to reverse osmosis units, change the mineral content in your tap water. Let’s break down what that means for your glass of H2O.

Understanding Soft Water

Soft water is simply water that’s had most of its minerals, like calcium and magnesium, removed. These minerals are what make water "hard." Without them, water feels silkier on your skin and doesn’t leave limescale on your kettle. But drinking it? That’s where it gets interesting.

The Softening Process

The magic trick behind soft water is called ion exchange. This process swaps out calcium and magnesium ions for sodium or potassium ions. Think of it like a trade-off: you lose the stuff that causes limescale, but you gain a pinch of sodium. This keeps your pipes happy and appliances running smoothly, but it can also change the taste of your water.

Potential Concerns About Sodium

Now, here’s the bit people worry about: sodium. Isn’t too much sodium bad for you? It can be, especially if you have conditions like high blood pressure. The good news? The amount of sodium added by water softeners is pretty small.

Sodium Content in Softened Water

Softened water usually contains around 46-300 mg of sodium per litre, depending on how hard your water was to start with. To put that into perspective, a single slice of bread contains about 150 mg of sodium. Still, if you're watching your sodium intake, it's something to keep in mind.

Separate Drinking Water Options

If the sodium content bothers you or you simply prefer the taste of unsoftened water, there are plenty of alternatives.

Reverse Osmosis Systems

Reverse osmosis (RO) systems are a top pick for people who want super-pure drinking water. They work by pushing water through a special membrane that filters out almost everything—sodium, minerals, and other impurities. The result? Crisp, clean water that tastes great.

Carbon Filters

Carbon filters are another great option. They’re brilliant at removing chlorine, sediment, and some organic compounds that can affect taste. While they don’t remove sodium as effectively as RO systems, they’re more budget-friendly and improve overall water quality.

Other Filtration Methods

Other options include distillation systems, which boil water and collect the steam (leaving most contaminants behind), and ceramic filters, which are excellent for removing bacteria and particulates. Each method has its pros and cons, depending on what you’re looking for.

Is Softened Water Safe to Drink?

Yes, softened water is generally safe to drink. Health bodies like the NHS haven’t flagged any major concerns. That said, if you're on a strict low-sodium diet, it might be worth having a separate tap for unsoftened water.

Does a Water Softener Remove Beneficial Minerals?

It does. Water softeners remove minerals like calcium and magnesium, which are good for you. But don’t worry—you get plenty of these minerals from your food. If you’re still concerned, you can always opt for a filter that adds minerals back in.

How Can I Improve the Taste of My Softened Water?

If softened water tastes a bit "off" to you, here are a few easy fixes:

• Use a filter: Activated carbon filters can really freshen up the taste.

• Add a slice of citrus: Lemon or lime adds a refreshing zing.

• Blend it: Mix softened and unsoftened water for a balanced taste.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can pets drink softened water?
A: Yes, though for pets with specific health conditions, you might want to offer unsoftened water.

Q: Does softened water affect cooking?
A: It can, especially in baking, where minerals play a role in texture and flavour.

Q: Is boiling softened water safe?
A: Absolutely. Boiling won’t reduce sodium levels, but it’s perfectly safe.

Conclusion: Making Informed Choices About Your Drinking Water

So, can you drink softened water? Yes, you can. But whether you want to comes down to personal preference. Consider the sodium content, think about the taste, and explore filtration options if needed. At the end of the day, staying hydrated with clean, safe water is what matters most.

More Water Softener info we think you'll love

• What Water Softener Do I Need?
• What Water Softener Is Best for Well Water?
• Salt-Based vs. Salt-Free Water Softeners: Which is Right for You?
• What Is the Average Cost of a Whole House Water Softener System?
• Do You Need a Separate Drinking Water Tap with a Water Softener?
  
• Is a Water Softener Worth the Expense?
• Does It Matter What Water Softener I Buy?
• What Capacity of Water Softener Do I Need?
• What Is the Average Size Water Softener for a Family of 4?
• What Happens If a Water Softener Is Too Small?
• Is It Okay to Oversize a Water Softener?
• Should I Upgrade My Water Softener?