An electronic water descaler is a great option for descaling water to prevent limescale buildup in water pipes, fixtures, faucets, and appliances. They are relatively affordable with little to minimal maintenance costs. There is a wide range of options to choose from on the market.
This article will help you choose the right one for your home and will review 10 of the best electronic water descaler options for your consideration. It will also provide you with a buying guide to enable you to narrow down your choices and then proceed to answer the top electronic water descaler FAQs.
10 Best Electronic Water Descalers
Best Budget Choice: HQUA 5000E Electronic Water Descaler
- Type: Electromagnetic
- Power rating: 4W
- Max Hardness: 25GPG
- Max pipe size: 11/2”
- Weight: 2.27 pounds
- Product Dimensions: 6.2X3.5X1.6 inches
The HQUA 5000E Electronic Water Descaler delivers great value at a budget price. It has an elegant, compact design that is both functional and easy to install. It has the capacity to descale enough water for a private household with up to 7 members.
It not only prevents new limescale buildup but also gets rid of old limescale. The manufacturer notes that it will take 1-3 months to get rid of the accumulated scale depending on the prevailing conditions.
It operates by producing frequency modulated electromagnetic waves that are transmitted through two cable bands to the water pipes. Through resonance, the natural frequency causes calcium and magnesium ions to precipitate into a crystal-like, non-adhesive consistency.
It is quite efficient with a power rating of 4W. It costs approximately 5-7 dollars a year to your electricity bill to operate the HQUA 5000E Electronic Water Descaler.
The product package comes with all the parts you need to install the electronic water descaler including the main unit, self-adhesive pads, power supply, cable ties, antenna cable, and a detailed product manual.
The unit is easy to install even with novice plumbing skills, in about 5 minutes. It should be installed at the entry of your pipe system on the main water supply line. It has a green light indicator that show when the unit is on or off. You can mount it on the wall using the adhesive tapes directly on the pipe using a tape and cable tie.
The cables can be wound around a one inch or one-and-a-half-inch pipe. They go around a 1” pipe nine times and 7 times around a 1-1/2”. You can wrap the antenna cable either way as long as you leave a 0.2” gap between adjacent cords and 0.5” between each side of the cables. The cables are compatible with all types of plumbing including plastic, galvanized, stainless steel, copper, and iron.
Best Premium Choice: Yarna Capacitive Electronic Water Descaler System
- Type: Capacitive
- Power rating: 4W
- Max hardness: Unlimited
- Max pipe size: 1”
- Weight: 1.25 pounds
- Product Dimensions: 7” X2” X2” inches
The Yarna CW24 Capacitive Electronic Water Descaler System is a high performer. It is one of the most recommended units by plumbers. A single unit is enough for large households as well as small apartment complexes (up to 20 units). It is effective up to 20 miles along with the pipe system from the installation point. It operates independently of the water flow. Therefore, you are not limited to installing only at an area where there is a high flow rate.
It is IP54 rated for both indoor and outdoor use. It can be mounted on a wall or directly on the pipe vertically, horizontally, or on adjacent pipes. You will need a minimum of 10” of free pipe space. It’s best used on 1” pipes. However, it is compatible with different types of plumbing systems including copper, iron, plastic, PVC, stainless steel, PE-x, and compound pipes. The unit is easy to install and you do not require a plumber.
It comes with isolated copper impulse bands that connect to your pipe firmly. Yarna’s descaler cables are made using a special copper material of high alloy purity which maximizes the electromagnetic field transfer output.
The bands are extremely thin and flexible to enable you to easily maneuver around the water pipe even on tight corners. The manufacturer recommends winding the loops as close as possible and even overlapping whenever possible. As a result, you minimize space loss and maximize the direct-contact ratio by up to 97.5%. You can wind the cable in either direction.
The patented, whole-house capacitive electronic water descaler is an electronic unit with a computerized micro-chip. It produces signal frequencies that are transmitted through ultra-flat impulse bands, which are wrapped on the water pipe.
This descaler has a unique operating mechanism. Instead of turning calcium carbonate ions into calcite, it turns them into vaterite. Vaterite are elongated, smooth crystals that flow easily in the water without adhering. The frequency also causes cations and ions to be in motion constantly minimizing ion solidification that could lead to scale build-up.
To back up its quality, the manufacturer offers a risk-free 365 day, 100% money-back guarantee. If you are not satisfied with the descaler, you can return it for a full refund within a year of purchasing. The manufacturer also offers a 10-year service warranty.
Best Value: iSpring ED2000 Whole House Water Descaler System
- Type: Electromagnetic
- Power rating: 4W
- Max Hardness: 25GPG
- Max pipe size: 1”
- Weight: 2pounds
- Product Dimensions: 7X3.5X2 inches
The iSpring ED2000 Whole House Water Descaler System is fitted with a patented computer chip that emits electromagnetic waves. It is designed for use with hard water levels of 10-19 GPG although it can handle up to 25 GPG.
The electronic water descaler has two antenna cables that you wrap around your water supply pipe to form a coil. The cables create a complex, frequency, electromagnetic waveform inducing an oscillating electric field in the water.
The resonant wave frequency agitates the water molecule clusters breaking them down into active twin molecules. The broken-down water molecules provide a larger surface area and better bonding capability with the hard ions. This enables the water to easily carry the ions and preventing them from adhering to the pipe surface.
It is easy to install with no plumbing modifications or plumbing expertise. It comes with two differently colored cables – one red and the other blue. The manufacturer provides specific instructions for winding the cable.
Start by passing both cables under the water pipe, with the red cable on your left-hand side and the blue cable on your right-hand side. Then, wind the blue cable in the direction of the water flow and the red one against the direction of water flow. Wrap the coil snugly on the pipe leaving no space between the coils.
The unit is most suited for use in small households on 1” and below water pipes. If your main water pipe is 1-1.5” wide, you will need to install two of these units side by side to optimize efficiency.
The manufacturer notes two limitations of the ED2000. First, the ions tend to re-solidify 50m down the water line. Therefore, if the water is traveling further than 50 feet from the electronic water descaler, you will need to install another unit after 50 feet. Secondly, the descaler’s efficiency is compromised by high iron content (above 0.3PPM) in the water. Ensure to install an iron removal filter before the ED2000.
The manufacturer backs up the product with a one-year money-back guarantee and lifetime tech support.
- Type: Electromagnetic (radio waves)
- Power rating: 1W
- Max Hardness: 25GPG
- Max pipe size: 1”
- Weight: 1.5 pounds
- Product Dimensions: 5X3X2 inches
The Aqua-Rex is another water softener alternative. It is designed for descaling water before channeling it to a water heater. It is available in 3 models:
- Aqua-Rex Wk1 – Suitable for use with gas heaters and city water
- Aqua-Rex Wk1-E – Suitable for use with electric heaters or well water systems
- Aqua-Rex Wk1-P –Suitable for use on pools and spas.
Both Aqua-Rex Wk1 and Aqua-Rex Wk1-E offer whole house water descaling. They remove existing scale and prevent the accumulation of new deposits. The Aqua-Rex Wk1-P prevents limescale accumulation in spa floors and pool walls and prevents descaling, bead blasting, or shock-treating the pool. It also minimizes the amount of chemicals you need when cleaning the pool.
All the models are US third-party tested and certified by the IAPMO R&T to have an 83% efficiency in reducing scale. They work on metallic or plastic pipes, however do not work on lead pipes. They have a compact design that takes up minimal space.
They are easy to install by simply wrapping the wire around the inlet pipe of your water heater or on the mainline of your cold-water supply. The signal goes in all directions so you do not need to wind the copper wires in any specific direction. The copper wire is best suited for use on 1” pipes.
The Aqua-Rex No Salt Water Softener alternative has a unique operating mechanism. Instead of using an electromagnetic wave, they have a radio transmitter that produces ultra-high radio waves. These radio waves travel through the copper wires into the water. They alter the structure of irons to form nucleation seeds. The hard water ions stick to the nucleation seeds instead of the surrounding surfaces preventing limescale formation. Over time, it cleans out even existing scale build-up.
The unit is 1W power rated. It is quite an energy efficient and costs about 20 dollars per year in electricity to operate.
The manufacturer offers a 20-year limited warranty alongside a 100-day money-back satisfaction guarantee.
- Type: Electromagnetic
- Power rating: 5W
- Max Hardness: 25GPG
- Max pipe size: 1”
- Weight: 5 pounds
- Product Dimensions: 6.69X1.57X3.54 inches
The Eddy Electronic Water Descaler has been on the market for over 15 years. It is designed to prevent limescale buildup and to dissolve existing limescale deposits.
The unit produces a complex electromagnetic wave that transmits to the water line through the cables. The electromagnetic wave alters the adhesion properties of the limescale preventing disposition.
It comes with two cables (red and yellow) for use on 1.5” pipes. However, if your main line pipe is larger, use the Eddy “Coil set C” instead (you can buy it from Amazon). The cables are compatible with most types of plumbing systems except iron and lead.
The manufacture offers a one-year money-back guarantee on the Eddy electronic water descaler. However, you get a full refund if you return the descaler within 30 days of purchase. If you return later, a 20% restocking fee will be deducted from the refundable amount.
- Type: Electromagnetic
- Power rating: 120volts
- Max Hardness: 35GPG
- Max pipe size: 1”- 1.5”
- Weight: Not indicated
- Product Dimensions: 13.54X10.75X5.08 inches
H2oEliteLabs EWC – Max 1 Electronic Water conditioner is designed to protect your entire plumbing system by descaling the incoming water of hard water ions. It has a high hard water tolerance of up to 35 GPG.
It stands out from competitors for its unique design and high-quality build. The electronic water descaler is made in the US and has a patented design. It is also IAMPO certified, Penn State tested and certified, Miss State, tested and certified. It comes with an optional leak detector.
It is best suited for indoor use only on residential property. It is easy to install and fits well on all types of pipes, including OVC, CPVC, PEX, and copper. It can be fitted on horizontal pipes, vertical pipes, or on the wall. It can also be used in conjunction with other water treatment systems such as filters and an electronic water softener.
It has four color illuminations and sound notifications that let you know when the water softening system is set up properly and operating correctly.
The manufacturer warns of counterfeit products and recommends that you only purchase from their official site on Amazon (H20EliteLabs). Otherwise, the warranty will be null and void.
- Type: Electromagnetic
- Power rating: 0.5W
- Max Hardness: 25GPG
- Max pipe size: 1”
- Weight: 2 pounds
- Product Dimensions: 10.5X8.5X2.5 inches
The Scalesweeper electronic water conditioner is the cheapest electronic water descaler on the market. It prevents new limescale buildup and also breaks down the existing scale. It works with all types of pipes including copper, galvanized, PVC, PEX, and stainless steel.
It can be mounted on vertical or horizontal pipes as close as possible to the cold-water entry. It comes with tie wraps for easy mounting but you could also use electrical tape. Coil the antenna in a clockwise direction as closely as possible. It comes with a 15ft wire but you can extend it up to 100ft.
It is highly energy efficient with a power rating of 0.5Watts. It has an LED light that illuminates blue when the electronic water descaler is in operation.
- Type: Electromagnetic
- Power rating: 15W
- Max Hardness: 19GPG
- Max pipe size: 1”
- Weight: 2.59 pounds
- Product Dimensions: 7.5X4.8X2.2 inches
Like all other descalers on this list, the Scaleblaster prevents limescale buildup and gets rid of the existing scale. It is suited for use as a whole house descaler in homes up to 4,000 sq. ft. with moderate to hard water (up to 16 GPG). It is mainly designed for indoor use on residential property.
The descaler is compatible with all types made of non-magnetic material. It has a pipe capacity of up to 1 ¼”. Installation involves wrapping the cable around the outside of the pipe. It has a compact size that makes it easy to install even in small spaces.
The package comes with all you need for an easy DIY installation, including an AC adapter, signal cable, 4X nylon cable ties, and an installation and operation manual. For a successful installation, you need at least 12 inches run of the unobstructed water supply line.
It functions by emitting an electromagnetic wave that causes the calcium and magnesium deposits to precipitate and collide against each other preventing them from being adhesive. It takes up to 3 months to get rid of the existing scale.
The manufacturer offers a 90-day money-back guarantee and a 3-year warranty. The unit is UL and cUL and complies with the U.S. safety standards.
- Type: Capacitive
- Power rating: 30W
- Max Hardness: No limit
- Max pipe size: 4”
- Weight: 1.75 pounds
- Product Dimensions: 4.5X4X2 inches
This model of Yarna capacitive electronic water descaler system operates similarly to the Yarna CW24 Capacitive Electronic Water Descaler System. It is also a high performer that is suitable for both indoor and outdoor use. However, unlike the Yarna CW24, it has a higher IP rating (IP65). It can also be used on both commercial and residential properties.
It can be mounted on a wall or directly on the pipe vertically, horizontally, or on adjacent pipes. You will need a minimum of 10” of free pipe space. It is best used on different pipe sizes up to 4”.
However, it is compatible with different types of plumbing systems including copper, iron, plastic, PVC, stainless steel, PEX, and compound pipes. The unit is easy to install and you do not require a plumber.
One of its most unique features is the waveform real-time display. The electronic water descaler comes with isolated copper impulse bands that connect to your pipe firmly. The cables are made of high alloy purity copper, which maximizes the electromagnetic field transfer output.
The bands are extremely thin and flexible to enable you to easily maneuver around the water supply pipe even on tight corners. The manufacturer recommends winding the loops as close as possible and even overlapping whenever possible. As a result, you minimize space loss and maximize the direct-contact ratio by up to 97.5%. You can wind the cable in either direction.
The patented, whole-house capacitive water descaler is an electronic unit with a computerized micro-chip. It produces signal frequencies that are transmitted through ultra-flat impulse bands, which are wrapped on the water pipe. The main unit is made of carbon fiber.
This descaler has a similar operating mechanism to the Yarna CW24. It turns calcium carbonate ions into vaterite, which flows easily in the water without adhering. The frequency also causes cations and ions to be in motion constantly minimizing ion solidification that could lead to scale build-up.
It comes with risk-free 365 days 100% money-back guarantee and a 10-year service warranty.
- Type: Electromagnetic
- Power rating: 8W
- Max Hardness: 25GPG
- Max pipe size: 1.5”
- Weight: 2.75 pounds
- Product Dimensions: 14.4X7.4X2.9 inches
The ScaleWatcher 3 Original Electronic Descaler has a patented design and is made in the USA. It has been on the market since 1991. It is a go-to option for both residential and commercial properties.
The 3-star electronic water descaler prevents limescale buildup and also removes the existing scale. It comes with a 10-year warranty.
It is easy to install and comes with all the necessary mounting hardware included, including 4 cable ties, 4 screws, 4 wall anchors, wire, and adapter. You can mount it on the wall or directly on the pipe.
The main unit is housed in a thermoplastic case. It produces an ever-changing magnetic field that is transmitted through the coils to cause hard water ions to crystalize and flow along the pipe easily without sticking.
What Is the Difference Between an Electronic Water Softener and a Water Descaler?
Some people refer to a descaler as salt-free water softeners. But, descalers are not water softeners. Rather they are water conditioners. While both aim to prevent scale buildup, they vary in their operating mechanisms and the water quality of the outlet water is different.
Below is a look at the working mechanisms of electronic water softeners vs electric descalers, their pros and cons, and when either is most suitable.
What is a Water Softener and How Does It Work?
An electronic water softener is a water treatment appliance that gets rid of calcium and magnesium deposits in the water. Calcium and magnesium ions are the main elements that cause water hardness. Therefore, when they are removed, the water becomes soft.
Softened water tastes better and does not cause, mineral buildup in your pipes, faucets, and appliances. By preventing scale buildup, it enables the normal flow of water without reducing the water pressure. Also, soap lathers better when used with soft water.
An electronic water softener has two main parts, a media tank, and a brine tank. The media tank is filled with resin beads that contain sodium ions. Hard inlet water flows over resin beads where ion exchanges take place.
The calcium and magnesium ions are positively charged while the resin bids are negatively charged. Therefore, when the water comes into contact with the resin beads, the positive and negative ions attract each other causing the calcium and magnesium ions to bind on to the resin bids. Consequently, the sodium ions that were on the resin beads get released into the water. Therefore, the outlet water is free of water-hardening calcium and magnesium ion. But, it contains higher levels of sodium.
Occasionally, the media tank undergoes a regeneration process. Usually, the process is controlled by the control valve and happens when the demand for softened water is minimal.
During the regeneration process, brine flows from the brine tank into the media tank. It washes over the resin beads to get rid of calcium and magnesium deposits and replenish sodium ion levels on the bids.
Note that, use of water softeners is banned in some states. In states such as Michigan, Connecticut, Massachusetts, and Texas, the use of sodium or potassium-based water softeners is prohibited. This is because the electronic water softener releases brine to the sewer line, which is against the states’ environmental protection rules.
What is an Electronic Water Descaler and How Does It Work?
An electronic water descaler is a salt-free system that conditions water to prevent scale buildup. It has no tank nor does it use a medium or salt. It uses a coil wire or magnet to alter the molecular structure of hard water minerals to improve their dissolvability.
Water does not come in direct contact with the descaler. Rather, the descaler is installed on the water supply pipe. It produces a magnetic field that alters the pattern of the water to prevent it from adhering to the surfaces it passes through. A descaler does not change the water quality.
Electronic Water Descaler vs Water Softener Comparison
Mechanism of Scale Buildup Prevention
Undoubtedly, both electronic water descalers and electronic water softeners prevent limescale accumulation. A water softener prevents scale buildup by getting rid of calcium and magnesium in an ion exchange process. On the other hand, electronic water descalers prevent limescale buildup by changing the molecular structure of the hard water ions.
Chemical Composition of the Water
Softened water contains little to no amount of calcium and magnesium ions. However, it contains high levels of sodium. On the other hand, the initial chemical composition of conditioned water remains the same.
If you have health conditions that require you to consume a low-sodium diet, water that has passed through a water softener is not suitable for you as it contains high levels of sodium. To correct the sodium concentration, you may need to install a reverse osmosis filter after the electronic water softener.
Effectiveness
Water descaling is most effective for city water whose hardness level does not exceed 25 GPG. Different water softeners have different water softness. They are quite effective as water softening systems for both city and well water.
If your water hardness level is above 25 GPG, a salt-based water softener is most appropriate. However, you need to pass well water through a carbon filter before channeling it through a water softener to get rid of impurities that may overload the water softener.
Water Consumption
Since water descalers do not need to regenerate and backwash, they do not cause water wastage. On the other hand, salt-based water softeners lead to significant water waste, especially during the regeneration process.
Water Flow Rate
An electronic water descaler does not affect the water flow rate or pressure. On the other hand, a salt-based water softener can cause the water pressure and flow rate to slow down if the system is not set up correctly or if there is sediment build-up in the softener.
Energy Consumption
Electronic water descalers are more energy-efficient than water softeners. Generally, salt-based water softeners use more energy than electronic descalers. The higher the water softener’s capacity, the higher its energy consumption.
Ease of Installation
An electronic water descaler has a straightforward installation process that you can install yourself even with novice plumping skills. Most manufacturers provide detailed step-by-step installation instructions with the descaler.
Conversely, salt-based water softeners should be installed by a professional. They have an intricate plumbing and electrical wiring procedure that need to be done correctly to ensure its efficiency and safety.
Maintenance
An electronic descaler does not require any elaborate maintenance procedure. In comparison, a salt-based water softener requires regular maintenance that involves refilling the brine tank, breaking salt bridges, regenerating the media tank, replacing resin beads, and flushing the system. You also need to regularly inspect the water softener for leaks, cracks, or defective valves.
Electronic Water Softener Vs. Electronic Descaler Differences Summary Table
Electronic Water Softener | Electronic Descaler |
Has a tank | Tankless |
Salt-based | Salt-free |
Employs a chemical process to prevent scale buildup | Employs a physical process to prevent scale buildup |
Alters the water quality | Does not alter the water quality |
Elaborate maintenance procedures | Little to no maintenance is required |
Suitable for city and well water | Best suited for city water |
Costlier | Budget-friendly |
Requires a professional to install | Easy DIY installation |
Require substantial installation space | Require minimal installation space |
Strips water of healthy minerals | Does not strip water of essential calcium and magnesium minerals |
Gives water a slick feel | Does not give water a slick feel |
Electronic Water Softener Vs. Electronic Descaler Similarities
- They prevent mineral buildup
- They do not remove other impurities e.g. chlorine, chloramines, bacteria, viruses, heavy metals, chemicals, pollutants, etc.
- Both use electricity
- Both are readily available in home improvement stores
Types of Electronic Water Descalers
There are two main types of electronic water descalers: Capacitive and Electromagnetic.
Capacitive Water Descaler
A capacitive water descaler consists of several electric wires connected to a capacitor. When connected to a power source, it produces an electromagnetic wave. The wave penetrates through the water supply pipe and alters the behavior pattern of the calcium and magnesium minerals to prevent them from sinking and depositing on the water supply pipe. A capacitive descaler is more effective than an electromagnetic one. However, it costs more.
Electromagnetic Descaler
An electromagnetic descaler is designed with an electromagnet. It is placed at the water entry point to your home. Once connected to electricity, the magnet produces electromagnetic waves that alter the behavior of calcium and magnesium minerals.
How to Care for and Maintain an Electronic Descaler
Once you have installed the electronic descaling system, you do not need to do anything else in regards to maintenance. Since it is tankless and a salt-free system, you do not need to periodically clean the tank or add salt.
As such, electronic descalers are not only affordable to buy and install, but also have a low maintenance cost. The only maintenance cost you will incur is the electricity used to power the unit. It will be minimal and manageable as the unit has a low power rating and uses energy efficiently.
How to Install an Electronic Descaler
The specific steps for installing an electronic water descaler are unique to your unit of choice. Read through and follow the installation manual provided by the manufacturer. It is recommended to install an electronic descaler indoor rather than outdoors.
Usually, it is attached to the outside of your main water line. Choose a location that is near an electric power source for easy connection. Ensure that the device is tied securely. Check that all connection points are intact before switching it on.
Most electronic descalers are easy to install by yourself and the installation process takes less than an hour. However, if you feel unsure about your capabilities to install the electronic descaling system, hire a professional plumber to do it.
Each product has particular instructions on the winding direction of the cables and how close you can wind the cables. While some manufacturers recommend that you leave some space between windings, others require that you wind the wires closely with no spaces in-between to maximize the surface area for transmission of the electromagnetic wave.
Also, some descaler wires can be wound in any direction, while others should be wound in a given direction. Some descalers come with two sets of cables others have a single cable. A few descalers come with color-coded cables for easy identification and determination of the winding direction.
Since the installation process does not require cutting the waterline, it is easy to change the installation location if need be. In case you need to move houses, you can easily uninstall the descaler and install it in your new house. The unit is compact and easily portable.
Buying Guide: Factors to Consider When Buying an Electronic Descaler
Water Demand
Most electronic descalers, such as the HQUA 5000E Electronic Water Descaler, are designed for whole-house use in small to medium households. However, some have a higher capacity. For example, the Yarna CW24 Capacitive Electronic Water Descaler System can be used for large houses and even small apartment blocks. Whereas, the iSpring ED2000 Whole House Water Descaler System is only effective up to 50ft along the water line and you may need to install multiple units even in a small house.
Assess your household demand for descaled water. A single electronic descaler is sufficient for most small households (2-4 people). However, if you have a larger household or a high demand for water, you will need to install two or more descaling units. Check the manufacturer’s indication of the descalers’ capacity.
Water Flow Rate
Electronic descalers should be installed in an area where the water is constantly flowing. They are not effective on stagnant water. Ideally, they should be installed on the main line before the heater, as this section has a high flow rate.
The descaling process is fast and the descaled water flows into your faucets almost instantaneously. Since the unit is tankless and the water does not come into direct contact, it does not disrupt the flow rate.
Effectiveness
Properly installed electronic descalers are effective for water city water whose hardness level is below 25GPG. Use a testing kit to accurately determine your water’s hardness level before buying a descaler.
One of the best ways to know if a water descaler is effective before buying it is by checking its reviews. Check what previous customers say about the product effectiveness over long-term use. A high rating is an indication of the product’s reliability.
Type and Size of Pipe
When buying an electronic descaler check that it is compatible with the type and size of your pipes. Most are compatible with 1” to 1 ½” pipes and only a few can fit larger pipes. While some descalers are compatible with both plastic and metallic pipes others are not compatible with metallic pipes that have magnetic properties such as stainless steel.
Warranty
When shopping for an electronic descaler, prioritize units that come with a warranty or satisfaction guarantee or both. In case you encounter problems with the unit, the warranty or guarantee makes it easy to have it repaired or to return for a refund.
In most cases, a warranty is an indicator of the manufacturer’s confidence in its products. The best electronic descaler comes with a lifetime warranty. Since electronic descalers are exposed to minimal wear and tear conditions, they should last at least 10 years.
Other Water Treatment Needs
Consider whether you only want to descale the water, in which case a water descaler is the best option. However, if you need to do additional water treatments such as filtration, purification, UV treatment, you might want to go for an all-in-one unit such as the Aquasana Whole House Well Water Filter System.
Conclusion
An effective electronic water descaler will significantly reduce scale buildup and remove existing scale on your water pipes, appliances, fixtures, and faucets. It will improve their efficiency and optimize their lifespan. Whichever option you settle for, do your due diligence to ensure it is effective and compatible with your pipes.
FAQs
What is Descaling?
Descaling is the process of minimizing the effects of hard water on water pipes and faucets.
Why is it Important to Descale Your Water?
Descaling water prevents limescale accumulation on fixtures, faucets, water pipes, and other water appliances. Aside from being unsightly, the limescale can significantly compromise the efficiency and lifespan of the fixtures and appliances.
For instance, it can reduce the water flow rate and pressure in the supply pipes. It can also cause water leaks and fasten wear on water heaters and pipes. Water heaters that have limescale formation are less efficient and utilize more energy, leading to an increase in your energy bill.
Descaling is also vital for ensuring safety in the operation of water pipes, boilers, and heaters. When the limescale deposits on a boiler or water tank, it can cause an increase in the metal temperatures. If the unit overheats, it can burst or cause scalding when touched.
Finally, descaling prevents Legionnaire’s disease bacteria. Limescale accumulation encourages the accumulation of mud and sludge and algae growth. This creates a conducive environment for the growth of pathogens and bacteria such as Legionnaire’s disease bacteria. Legionnaire’s disease bacteria can cause severe pneumonia and respiratory system inflammation.
Do Electronic Water Descalers Really Work? How Effective is an Electronic Descaler?
Salt-free water descalers are quite effective as long as they are set up properly and used on moderately hard water such as city water.
To determine if your descaler is working, inspect your water pipes and faucets to see if there is a reduction in limescale deposit. When using the water to clean, it should not leave limescale deposits. Also, soap should lather easily.
When Is an Electronic Descaler Most Appropriate?
Electronic water descalers are a great water softener alternative under the following conditions:
- If you want to prevent limescale build-up in your water pipes, faucets, and appliances
- If you are using city water with a hardness level of less than 25GPG
- If you do not like the slippery feel of softened water
- If you have a limited budget for a water treatment system to prevent mineral buildup
- If you want a solution with low maintenance costs
- If you are keen on a low-energy consumption water treatment solution
- If you are wary of high-sodium content in softened water
- If the installation of electronic water softening systems are banned in your state
- If you are keen on conserving water and the impact of brine release to the sewer lines
What is the Difference Between an Electronic and Non-Electronic Water Descaler?
The most obvious difference between electronic descalers and non-electronic descalers is that the former is tankless. As such, their operating mechanism varies greatly.
As described above, electronic descalers work by producing an electromagnet wave that penetrates the water line to delocalize the limescale and calcium deposits. They are maintenance-free.
Conversely, a non-electronic water descaler has a tank that contains a descaling media. Water is directed into the tank where it passes through the descaling media, which alters the molecular structure of the limescale deposits preventing them from crystalizing and sticking on surfaces.
These tank units are salt-free. The descaling media is self-sacrificing and requires to be replaced when it nears or exceeds its capacity.
Some of the best water softener alternatives include the Aquasana Simplysoft whole house descaler and the AO Smith Whole House Salt-Free Water Descaler. Generally, tank descalers are pricier than electronic descalers. They may need to be installed by a professional and require more installation space.
How Much Do Electronic Water Descalers Cost?
The cost of most electronic water descalers ranges between $100 and $400. While some highly-priced descalers have a premium quality, you do not have to go for the most expensive one. Check previous customer reviews to get a sense of whether the particular descaler you are considering is of high quality.
What are the Features of the Best Electronic Water Descalers?
The best electronic water descaler has the following characteristics:
- Effective for hard water up to 25GPG
- Durable
- Compatible with different types of pipes
- Backed by a warranty or money-back guarantee
- The manufacturer offers easily accessible customer and tech support
- Sufficient for your house size
- Price is within your budget
- Easy to install
- Gets rid of previously accumulated limescale
- Maintenance-free
