Aggressive Water

ASHEVILLE, NC -- There was a slight discoloration in the water when filling the bathtub. We tested the water. The results? Low TDS, low pH, two grains of hardness (GPG), and 7.0ppm of iron. We recommended a neutralizer, iron filter, water softener, and a 20" canister filter.

Due to a shift in the well, the iron media failed, because the water became even more aggressive. Therefore, the customer decided to have us swap out the iron filter for a neutralizer, and had us add the 20" canister filter and water softener. Why the canister filter and water softener? By replacing the iron filter with a neutralizer - which is first in line (from right to left in the photo), the neutralizer is now taking the initial load of iron. Neutralizers can handle some iron, but they are not as effective as iron filters. Canister filters can handle iron too but require frequent changes with higher amounts of iron. The combination of the two should keep the iron manageable, while correcting the pH. The water softener can then do what it does best - remove the hardness.

It's important to note that water filtration can be pricey, especially when the water is notably aggressive. In our experience, the most effective treatment for this particular water chemistry is a neutralizer, iron filter, water softener, and a polishing 20" canister filter. With the price of a system of this nature costing thousands of dollars, we understand how hard it can be to afford the unexpected expense. By compromising and configuring the filtration in this way (omitting the iron filter and moving the canister), the customer's water will be treated effectively but the customer will have to change the canister much more frequently.