Between rapidly changing federal regulations and the EPA’s proposed crackdown on PFAS levels in industrial processes, fluid treatment and purification will become increasingly important. In fact, a recent study by Precedence Research indicates that demand for water purification alone will sharply increase through 2032.

If you are trying to improve your commercial or industrial systems to stay in compliance, the sheer number of filters and softeners could feel overwhelming. Which is right for each area of your business? In this blog, we’ll introduce the two broad categories of filtration types to help you narrow down your search.

Filtration and Softeners Fulfill Different Core Objectives

While both are centered around water purification, filtration and water softening have different core objectives. 

Softeners reduce hard minerals in pipe systems and improve drinkable water quality, primarily calcium, lime, and magnesium. They are primarily used to extend the life of the system by reducing contaminant buildup.

Filters remove a wide variety of contaminants based on their type and filter materials. More advanced filtration systems even remove chemical compounds, bacteria, and PFAS (forever chemicals). They can be designed to fulfill a wide range of tasks, including but not limited to:

• Removing microbes from consumable fluid supplies
• Removing waste products for disposal
• Bringing fluids to industry standards for purity and quality
• Reducing environmental hazards before water is released into the surrounding area
• Removing Gulf silt and sediment from water supplies after a hurricane
• Preventing bacteria, viruses, and other organic microbes from reaching employees and consumers

In short, water softeners protect pipes and machinery from damage caused by buildup. Filters focus on a range of quality, safety, and regulatory goals.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Between a Water Softener and a Filter for Your Commercial or Industrial System

Filters and softeners are critical investments to keep fluid quality up to standards. You will likely end up using both throughout your site based on your goals for each system or even segments of that system. 

• Cost. Softeners focus on removing hard minerals, so they are often a more cost-effective option where you only need to improve drinking water quality or protect systems from hard water buildup.
  
  
• Area Compliance and Regulations. If you are required to keep certain standards in waste disposal, fluid quality, contaminant levels, and other factors, a softener will not be enough to stay in compliance or to protect the end products from contaminants.
  
  
• Goals Within The System. A water softener may be adequate for sections of the system that are strictly for transporting fluids. If the fluid has to meet certain quality, environmental, health, or safety standards, a filter can help you achieve those goals. You will also need to take your planning a step further to determine the best water filtration system to meet these goals.

What is the Most Efficient Way to Choose Between a Softener and a Filtration System?

We personally recommend getting an expert involved. Filtration manufacturers and providers deal with each part, regulation, and local guideline on a daily basis. What might take you time, research, and costly trial and error, an expert specializing in commercial and industrial purification systems can help you quickly find an effective solution.

1. Decide what you need the purification system to remove so that you have a clear goal. This may require reviewing upcoming regulatory changes and analyzing the cost of necessary updates.
   
   
2. Research your options. Even if you narrow down between the two off the bat, you will still need to research viable types of softeners or filtration systems. Consider things like space needed, energy costs, and repairs and maintenance costs. This will help you ask the right questions, follow the expert’s explanations, and make an informed decision.
   
   
3. Find a reputable provider to discuss your options. Make sure they have a long reputation for quality service and products. Be prepared to discuss the areas you are considering a softener or filter for, along with what each section of the system needs to achieve.
   
   

Sparkling Clear Has Been Providing Quality Filtration Solutions Since 1985

We pride ourselves in understanding our customers' needs and providing cost-effective solutions today while adopting the newest technologies and industry standards to meet the needs of tomorrow. Contact us today to take the guesswork out of choosing the right filtration solution.