Commercial > Plumbing > Water Softeners

Water Softeners Q&A

Should I use a water softener?

"This is a matter of personal choice. A softener will improve the efficiency and increase the life of appliances using hot water. It will make lathering easier and reduce tide marks on sanitary ware. Some people with skin conditions, such as eczema, have fewer problems if they use soft water for washing. But if you do install a water softener, you should make sure that you have a supply of unsoftened water for drinking and cooking." - From the Drinking Water Inspectorate's

Do I have hard water?

The map to the right shows the distribution of hard water areas in England and Wales. You probably already suspect you have hard water, but if you want confirmation, you can contact your local water company. Their phone numbers will be listed under "Water" in your local phone directory.

A water softener saves money.

Limescale in your heating system forms between your hot water and the pipes it runs through, acting as an insulator, keeping the heat in the water and reducing the amount of heat that enters your home. Because of this insulation, your hot water system will have to work harder to heat up your home, using more electricity or fuel, and taking longer to warm your home. Eventually, appliances and pipework have to be replaced as scale builds up. Just 3.2mm (1/8") of scale will increase your fuel bills by 25%. Installing a water softener makes good sense as it will pay for itself sooner than you think, and you can enjoy the benefits of softened water without worrying about limescale buildup. A water softener will also remove your home's existing scale.

Water softeners have other benefits too.

It's not just about saving money. A water softener can give you better tea and coffee by eliminating scale in your kettle, extend the life of your washing machine and dishwasher, reduce tide marks in baths and basins, and reduce white spots, streaks and evaporation marks on your taps, showers, tiles and shower doors. A water softener can also help with some skin conditions, but do get your doctor's advice before installing a water softener for medical reasons.

Monarch water softeners.

Why choose a Monarch water softener? That's a good question, and there are many good answers:

• Monarch water softeners are small, efficient, reliable and quiet.
• They are designed and built in Britain.
• Full 7-year guarantee on parts (2-year labour)
• DIY installation: If you can install a washing machine, you will be able to install a Monarch water softener.
• WRAS and CE approved.
• Monarch's after-sales service to second to none and has been one of the most important factors behind their success.

Which water softener is right for you?

Compare Monarch water softeners

Water Softener Comparison

	Mini	Midi	Master
Suitable use	1-4 person property. 1-2 bathrooms on a direct system.	1-6 person property. 1-3 bathrooms on a direct system.	1-10 person property. 1-4 bathrooms on a direct system.
Power Supply	220v	220v	220v
Operation	Internal meter	Internal meter	Internal meter
Working pressure	1.5 to 5	1.5 to 5	1.5 to 5
Flow rate	83 l/min	78 l/min	78 l/min
Inlet	22mm	22mm	22mm
Outlet	22mm	22mm	22mm
Overflow	1/2" hose	1/2" hose	1/2" hose
Drain	1/2" hose	1/2" hose	1/2" hose
Max temperature	30°C	30°C	30°C
Min temperature	Do not freeze	Do not freeze	Do not freeze
Dimensions	480H x 485D x 270W mm	555H x 485D x 270W mm	710H x 485D x 270W mm
Additional salt tank	no	no	no
Salt per reg (kg)	0.98 - 1.4	1.19 - 1.7	1.89 - 2.7
Daily capacity (litres @ 300 ppm)	1467	2280	3420
Guarantee (years)	7	7	7