Adding a water softener before RODI?

[Fisherman Joe]

The TDS where I live is up at 450 at some times. It’s rather hard water.

I’ve read about these water softeners that use salt.

Is there any worth to adding one of these to the mains before the RODI unit?

I’m not 100% sure on how they work.

 

[Anthony Kochevar]

Don't have a answer but this is a good read:

https://www.bestspy.org/water-softener-water-safe-aquariums/

 

[Phil D.]

Wouldn't do so, it will cause you to have to replace filters, membranes and DI cartridges faster. I have 475 coming out of tap, 6 after membranes and 0 after DI

 

[ca1ore]

House water softeners work by exchanging hardness ions for about equal amounts of sodium so TDS will read about the same. Plenty of benefits to the pipes in your house but no particular benefit to the RODI system on your tank.

 

[KenO]

I would disagree. My tap is 650 TDS. A water softener exchanges hard water ions for salt ions. Your TDS will stay the same, but an RO membrane has an easier time with salt ions vs hard water ions. I can easily get 3-4 years on my membranes with the softener. When I was in a rental that didn’t have a softener my membrane lasted about 2 years. Plus your pipes and plumbing fixtures in your house will thank you. I use potassium salt vs sodium salt in my softener. When I take a shower I get 11% of my daily potassium since it will get absorbed through your skin as you shower.

 

[KStatefan]

Wouldn't do so, it will cause you to have to replace filters, membranes and DI cartridges faster. I have 475 coming out of tap, 6 after membranes and 0 after DI

Why will it make you have to replace filters faster?

 

[vetteguy53081]

I have well water
I have a whole house carbon filter, then to softener, then to RO units.
I have an extra whole house unit if youre looking for one

 

[Gordonm]

Why will it make you have to replace filters faster?

No