Last Updated on September 8, 2023 by Jeffrey B Roberts

A filter pitcher can soften the water to a small extent, but it cannot soften the water completely. Softened water has become a popular choice for many households, as it helps to reduce the hardness of drinking water and can prevent the buildup of scale in plumbing fixtures. The process involves passing hard water through an ion exchange unit that replaces calcium and magnesium ions with sodium or potassium ions resulting in softened water.

Would A Filter Pitcher Make Softened Water More?

A filtering pitcher can soften water to some extent, but it will not make the water as soft as a dedicated water softening system. Filter pitchers can reduce levels of specific contaminants, such as chlorine, lead, and sediment. They also trap minerals that can cause hardness in water. Depending on the type of filter used in the pitcher and the water’s hardness, it may be effective at softening water to some degree. Ultimately, a filter pitcher can provide a slight level of water softening, but you should consider investing in a dedicated water-softening system for more significant levels of softened water.

How Does A Filter Pitcher Work?

A filtering pitcher is a water purification device that utilizes filters to remove contaminants from drinking water. It passes the water through multiple activated carbon or ion exchange resin filters, which trap the impurities and leave only clean, filtered water behind. Filter pitchers are usually designed with a small reservoir at the top that holds the unfiltered water and a spout at the bottom from which the filtered water can be poured.

The filter pitcher utilizes several filters to remove contaminants from drinking water. These typically include activated carbon, ion exchange resin, and sediment filters.

• Activated carbon filters are designed to remove chlorine and other contaminants such as lead and VOCs (volatile organic compounds).

  

• Ion exchange resin filters, on the other hand, are designed to remove heavy metals such as lead and mercury.
• Sediment filters filter out particles such as dirt, silt, and sand from the water.

  

Can Filter Pitchers Improve The Taste And Smell Of Softened Water?

Yes, but it depends on the type of filter pitcher you are using. Generally, a filter pitcher can make softened water taste better by removing chlorine, lead and other pollutants that may be present in the water. However, it will not necessarily reduce minerals like calcium or magnesium that can give softened water its distinctive flavour. Additionally, some activated carbon filters used in filter pitchers can also help to reduce odours from the water. A filtering pitcher effectively makes softened water taste and smell better but may not eliminate all its characteristic qualities.

Can Filter Pitchers Remove Contaminants That May Be Present In Softened Water?

While a filter pitcher can remove some contaminants, it is essential to remember that most are not designed to reduce or eliminate certain bacteria and other microorganisms. Additionally, some filter pitchers may be able to reduce heavy metals like lead but cannot remove all of them at once. It is also important to note that filter pitchers will not be effective at removing medical toxins and other pollutants that may be present in the water. Therefore, testing your softened water for contaminants is best before using a filter pitcher.

Factors To Consider When Choosing A Filter Pitcher For Softened Water

• Compatibility with softened water: When choosing a filter pitcher, it is essential to consider. Softened water contains minerals, such as sodium and calcium, that can build up over time in the filter pitcher. If the pitcher isn’t designed for softened water, it may become clogged and need to be replaced more often than one made for softened water. Ensuring the pitcher is certified to remove the minerals in softened water is also essential.
• Size and Capacity: The size and capacity of a filter pitcher can also play an essential role in how well it will work with softened water. If the pitcher is too small, it won’t be able to handle as much softened water, resulting in frequent filter changes. If the pitcher is too large, it might take too long to fill up and could require more frequent filter changes. Selecting a pitcher with a capacity that is appropriate for your needs is essential.
• Filter Quality: The quality of the filters used in a pitcher also plays an important role when using softened water. Poor-quality filters can quickly become clogged with minerals, reducing the pitcher’s efficiency. Look for a filter made of high-quality materials designed to remove as many contaminants as possible. This will ensure your softened water is filtered effectively.
• Price: Price should always be considered when selecting any product; however, it is essential when choosing a filter pitcher for softened water. High-quality pitchers with good filters usually carry a higher price tag, but they can be worth the investment in the long run if they provide clean and safe drinking water.

Maintaining And Cleaning A Filter Pitcher For Softened Water

• Change the filter pitcher regularly according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This will help reduce mineral buildup, increasing the softened water you get from your filter pitcher.
•  Regularly inspect and clean the filter chamber to remove any dirt or sediment that may be clogging it up, which can reduce the effectiveness of your filter pitcher.
• Refrain from using any chemical cleaner or abrasive materials when cleaning the filter chamber, as this may damage the components and adversely affect the filtration process.
• When not in use, store your filter pitcher away from direct sunlight to prevent discolouration, which could reduce its filtration capabilities.

FAQs

Can I use a filter pitcher with any water?

Yes, you can use a filter pitcher with any water. However, depending on the type of filter used in the pitcher, it may not be highly effective at removing specific contaminants from hard water or other more heavily contaminated sources.

How often do I need to replace the filter in my pitcher?

The amount of time you need to replace the filter in your pitcher depends on various factors, including the level of use and water quality. It is recommended that pitchers with carbon filters be replaced every two months for households without well water and once monthly for homes with well water.

Can a filter pitcher remove all contaminants from the water?

No, filter pitchers can only remove specific contaminants from water. The type of contaminants they are effective in removing depends on the filter used. Generally, most filter pitchers use activated carbon filters, effectively removing chlorine and organic compounds like pesticides or herbicides.

Conclusion

A filtering pitcher with softened water can help remove impurities and improve the water’s taste. There is no guarantee that a filter will improve the quality of softened water; however, it may be worth trying for those looking for an easy way to make their drinking water more palatable. Filter pitchers are relatively inexpensive, easy to use, and can provide a convenient way to get fresh-tasting water.