Water Softeners, Water Filters, Reverse Osmosis | Hague Quality Water

PFAS vs. Microplastics: Understanding the Difference and Protecting Your Water

2025-11-14T00:00:00.05Z

Two major contaminants are making headlines and raising concerns for families everywhere: PFAS, often called “forever chemicals,” and microplastics. Both are persistent and potentially harmful, but they’re not the same. Let’s explore what they are, why they matter, and how you can keep them out of your home.

Microplastics: Tiny Particles, Big Problems

What are they?

Microplastics are minuscule plastic fragments, smaller than five millimeters, created when larger plastics break down or are manufactured for products like cosmetics and cleaners.

What are they made of?

These particles are composed of polymers such as polyethylene, polypropylene, and polystyrene. Their durability means they can linger in the environment for decades.

Where do they come from?

Decomposing plastic waste
Microbeads in personal care items¹
Synthetic fibers from clothing
Industrial processes

Where are they found?

Microplastics could be all around, in oceans, rivers, soil and even the air. They travel easily and often enter the food chain through wildlife consumption².

Why should you care?

Studies have detected microplastics in human tissues, including lungs and blood³. Potential health risks include:

Inflammation
Hormonal disruption
Chemical exposure from absorbed pollutants

Visit the World Health Organizations website to learn more about the potential health impacts from microplastics.

Are they regulated?

While microplastics are potentially widespread, progress is happening. Many countries have banned microbeads in cosmetics¹, and global efforts aim to curb plastic pollution through recycling and single-use bans⁴.

PFAS: The Persistent “Forever Chemicals”

What are they?

PFAS are synthetic compounds used in water- and grease-resistant products like non-stick cookware, waterproof clothing and food packaging. They’re called “forever chemicals” because they resist breakdown in both the environment and the human body.

What makes them so durable?

PFAS contain carbon-fluorine bonds, among the strongest in chemistry, making them extremely resistant to degradation. Common PFAS include PFOA, PFOS and GenX chemicals¹.

Where do they come from?

Non-stick pans
Water-repellent fabrics
Food packaging
Firefighting foams
Industrial applications

Where do they end up?

PFAS easily migrate through water, contaminating drinking supplies² and accumulating in soil, groundwater, and living organisms.

Why should you care?

Exposure has been linked to:

Increased cholesterol levels
Immune system suppression
Hormonal disruption
Increased risk of certain cancers²

Are they regulated?

The EPA has issued health advisories for PFAS in drinking water², and several states have adopted strict standards to limit contamination.

How to Reduce PFAS and Microplastics at Home

Knowledge is power, now let’s act. A great way to help reduce these contaminants is through water filtration.

Step 1: Test Your Water

Schedule a free water test with a local expert. They’ll analyze your tap water and recommend the best filtration solution for your home.
Check your local water quality report. Public water systems in the United States are required to provide a water quality report. These reports have info on the source and treatment of your water as well as the levels of chemicals or contaminants. Use the EPA’s website to find out more about your water.

Step 2: Choose the Right Filter

Whether your home relies on a private well or city water, understanding what’s in your water is the first step toward cleaner, safer hydration. Once you know what contaminants you're dealing with, you can choose a filtration system tailored to your needs.

Investing in water filtration can offer health benefits for you and your family. The right system could reduce harmful substances like lead, chlorine, cysts, PFAS or microplastics.

If you're concerned about PFAS or microplastics, explore the solutions below to help safeguard your home and loved ones.

HomeShield Whole House Water Filter: Certified to target tough contaminants like PFAS*, with internally validated chlorine reduction — delivering cleaner, healthier water from every tap in your home
InterFlo IF-14 Water Filter: This under sink water filter reduces over 99% of microplastics, making it a powerful choice for cleaner, safer water

*HomeShield is certified to reduce the following PFAS substances: PFNA, PFOA, PFOS, PFHpA, PFHxS.

Bonus Tips to Minimize Exposure

Opt for reusable products instead of single-use plastics
Look for PFAS-free certifications on household items
Support initiatives that regulate PFAS and reduce plastic waste
Share knowledge to encourage sustainable practices

The Bottom Line

PFAS and microplastics may be invisible, but their impact is undeniable. Microplastics stem from our plastic habits, while PFAS lurk in everyday items. The good news? You can fight back with awareness, filtration and lifestyle changes.

Ready to take control of your water quality? Schedule your free water test today and start your journey toward cleaner, healthier water.

References

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). "PFAS Explained." https://www.epa.gov/pfas/pfas-explained
EPA. "Drinking Water Health Advisories for PFOA and PFOS." https://www.epa.gov/sdwa/and-polyfluoroalkyl-substances-pfas
National Institutes of Health (NIH). "Microplastics and Human Health." https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9494273
UNEP. "Plastic Pollution: Microplastics in the Environment." https://www.unep.org/resources/report/plastic-pollution
Science Advances. "Detection of Microplastics in Human Blood." https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/sciadv.abq0850

Water Quality Month: Protecting Every Drop for People and the Planet

2025-08-27T00:00:00.05Z

August is Water Quality Month, a time to reflect on the essential role clean water plays in our lives—and the responsibility we all share in protecting it. Whether it’s the water we drink, cook with, or use to nourish our gardens, its quality directly impacts our health, our communities, and the environment.

Why Water Quality Matters

Clean water isn’t just a convenience, it’s a necessity. Yet, many water sources face threats from pollution, aging infrastructure, and climate change. Contaminants like lead, PFAS, nitrates, and microplastics are increasingly found in water supplies, raising concerns for both human health and ecological balance.

The Role of Water Treatment

Water treatment systems are the unsung heroes in the fight for clean water. From municipal plants to in-home filtration systems, these technologies remove harmful contaminants and ensure water is safe and palatable.

Some key water treatment methods include:

Activated Carbon Filtration – Helps minimize chlorine, VOCs, and odors.
Reverse Osmosis – Effectively reduces heavy metals, salts, and other dissolved solids.
UV Purification – Supports the reduction of bacteria and viruses without chemicals.
Whole House Filtration – Protects the point of entry for cleaner water at every tap.

By investing in effective water treatment, we not only protect our families but also reduce our reliance on bottled water, cutting down on plastic waste and carbon emissions.

Learn More About HomeShield™

Suppose you're looking for a reliable way to improve your home's water quality. In that case, HomeShield™ Whole House Water Filter with PFAS Reduction Whole House by A. O. Smith offers advanced filtration solutions designed to help protect your water from potentially harmful contaminants, like PFAS*—right at the point of entry. HomeShield helps ensure every drop is cleaner, safer, and environmentally responsible.

Learn more about this exciting new solution!

A Nod to the Environment

Water quality and environmental health go hand in hand. Polluted runoff, industrial waste, and overuse of fertilizers can degrade rivers, lakes, and groundwater. But the good news? Every action counts.

Here’s how we can all contribute:

Choose eco-friendly cleaning products to reduce chemical runoff.
Fix leaks promptly to conserve water and reduce strain on treatment systems.
Support green infrastructure like rain gardens and permeable pavements.
Advocate for stronger water protections in your community.

A Shared Responsibility

Water Quality Month is a reminder that clean water is a shared resource—and a shared responsibility. Whether you're a homeowner, a policymaker, or have a water treatment business, your choices matter. Let’s work together to ensure that every drop is safe, sustainable, and protected for generations to come.

*PFAS substances include: PFNA, PFOA, PFOS, PFHpA, PFHxS.

New Water Regulations: Are You at Risk for Lead Contamination?

2025-02-17T00:00:00.05Z

Many older service lines still contain lead, potentially exposing homeowners to serious health risks. With the 2021 Lead and Copper Rule Revisions (LCRR) implementation on October 16, 2024, water providers must now notify homeowners if their service lines contain lead or other high-risk materials. This change allows you to take proactive steps toward better water quality.

What Happens If Your Service Line Contains Lead?

Your local water provider will issue a notice if your service line is found to contain lead, GRR, or unknown materials. This notice will include:

A breakdown of the health risks associated with lead exposure
Tips on how to reduce lead levels in your drinking water
Options for service line testing and replacement

How Hague Can Help Protect Your Home’s Water

Expert Water Testing Services: Hague professionals can conduct a thorough analysis of your drinking water to detect lead.
Filtration You Can Trust: From whole-home to under-sink solutions, Hague offers advanced lead-removal systems like the ONE™ Cartridge Tank, InterFlo® Drinking Water Filter, and InterFlo QuadPro Tankless Reverse Osmosis System.

Don’t wait for lead to become a problem—schedule your water test with a Hague dealer today!

Is It Safe to Shower in Water That Smells Like Chlorine?

2024-07-30T00:00:00.05Z

Have you ever stepped into the shower and noticed a strong swimming pool smell coming from the water? You’re not alone! Typically, this smell is caused by the chlorine in your water. People often wonder, is it safe to shower in water that smells like chlorine? This article will explore the answer to that question, along with why your water smells like chlorine, what it means from a health perspective, and things you can do to resolve this issue.

Why Does My Water Smell Like Chlorine?

Chlorine is commonly found in the water supply of city homes. Municipal water treatment systems use chlorine to disinfect water and eliminate harmful bacteria, making cooking, cleaning, bathing, and other household activities safer. However, after chlorine has served its purpose in disinfecting the water, it's no longer needed and can even have adverse effects if present in the water supply.

Is It Safe to Shower in Chlorinated Water?

It is generally safe to shower and bathe in water that smells like chlorine. The chlorine levels in treated water are typically within safe limits set by regulatory agencies like the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). However, it is best to get your water tested by a professional.

Exposure to high chlorine levels through showers or bathing over time could adversely affect hair and skin. Sensitive skin or other pre-existing conditions could increase susceptibility to these effects.

Possible Side Effects of Chlorine Exposure in Water

Skin Irritation: Chlorine can be an irritant that strips the skin of natural oils, leading to itching and dryness.
Brittle or Dry Hair: Exposure to chlorinated water can make color-treated hair fade away more quickly. Chlorine can also cause hair to become dry and even brittle or discolored.

How to Minimize Chlorine Exposure in the Shower

The good news is that you can do a few things to reduce and prevent these common adverse effects associated with chlorine in the water.

Shower Filters: Shower Filters can effectively address chlorine concerns from one location, like the shower head. These filters can work in some applications, although they can only address chlorine, not other contaminants that may be present in the water. Shower filters must also be replaced frequently to ensure they remain effective.
Whole-Home Water Filtration: Whole-home water filters can be installed to tackle many contaminants, including chlorine. These systems can remove foul smells and tastes throughout your home. Hague Quality Water offers numerous options of whole-home water filtration systems to provide your home with the desired quality water.
WaterMax® Signature Series: This unique, highly efficient, whole-home water treatment system can be fully customized to meet your needs. With multiple media chambers, the WaterMax is a perfect solution for homes on city water. It can not only filter out chlorine but also give you soft water.

Steps to Better Water

While taking your morning shower in water that smells like chlorine is generally considered safe, it is still a good idea to understand the potential discomfort and dryness to hair and skin that can come with it. Having a water expert come to the home and perform a water test is always the best place to start.

If you’re concerned about the chlorine levels in your water, contact an authorized Hague dealer today to learn about the best options available.

Adding Lemon to Drinking Water: Is It Good or Bad?

2024-07-01T00:00:00.05Z

We all know that hydration plays a vital role in your overall health. It’s often said adults should drink at least 8 eight-ounce glasses of water each day. Water is a calorie-free, caffeine-free, and cost-effective option for hydration on a hot day! While it’s great, plain water can get boring over time. Is adding lemon a good choice?

The Positives of Adding Lemon to Your Water

The biggest positive of adding lemon to your water is that it can enhance the flavor, making drinking plenty of water every day more enjoyable. According to Medical News Today, there are several other health benefits to drinking lemon water.

Vitamin C - Lemons are a good source of vitamin C and adding the juice from an average-size squeezed lemon can give you up to 21% of your daily recommended vitamin C.
Flavonoids - These can help your body resist toxins, helping you stay healthy, fight disease, and lower chances of chronic health conditions. Flavonoids also have anti-inflammatory effects.
Citrate - Lemons contain high amounts of citrate, a component of citric acid, which can help prevent kidney stones.

Can Adding Lemon to My Water be Harmful?

There are a couple negatives to keep in mind when adding lemon to your drinking water.

Tooth Enamel - The acid in the lemon can play a part in eroding the enamel on your teeth. To avoid this, drink your water with a straw and rinse your mouth with plain water after drinking the lemon water.
Acid Reflux - People who have problems with heartburn and acid reflux may experience those symptoms more after adding lemon to their water due to the citric acid in lemons.

Should I Add Lemon to My Water?

Ultimately, the decision to add lemon to your water is yours. The benefits of drinking plenty of water and staying hydrated are the same whether you add lemon or not. If the tangy taste of lemon encourages you to drink more water, then go ahead! But if lemon isn’t your thing, there are numerous other options to flavor your water. You can experiment with mint leaves, strawberries, raspberries, watermelon, or even cucumber! The choice is yours, and the benefits of proper hydration will always be there, no matter if you choose to flavor your water or drink it plain.

Aids digestion
Helps lubricate joints
Regulate body temperature
Help carry nutrients throughout your body
Protect organs
Maintain good blood pressure
Help your overall health

No matter how you prefer your water, be sure that the water you drink is great quality! Reach out to your local authorized Hague dealer today and learn how you can have great quality water right from your home’s tap!

Back to School Season is a Great Time to Get a Water Softener

2022-09-23T00:00:00.05Z

Have you been considering purchasing a home water softener? If you have kids going back to school, now just might be a great time to invest in a water softener to help save you money. The WaterMax Signature Series complete water treatment system could be the solution for you. The Signature Series is known as a complete water treatment system because it is a water softener and water filter all in one! The benefits of owning this whole-home water treatment system will actually pay for itself over time, and many of those cost savings involve school related expenses.

Improve Showering and Getting Ready

Does your teen take forever in the shower? Have trouble getting them out of the bathroom and to the kitchen for breakfast before school? Softened water from a WaterMax will make getting ready for school and any other occasion much easier. Soft water promotes healthy, moisturized skin, and helps soaps, body washes, and shampoos to lather and rinse better. Many water softener users report not only softer skin, but hair that is more manageable and easier to style.

And since the WaterMax Signature Series can be customized to filter the water at the same time, you can enjoy bathing in water free from the harsh chemical smell of chlorine for those of you in a city school district. Municipalities add chlorine to the water supply to prevent bacteria growth as it distributed throughout your neighborhood, but that is no longer necessary when you're ready to use it inside of your home.

Protect Back-to-School Clothes Investment

Whether you are purchasing uniforms or the latest teen couture, you want your school wardrobe investment to last as long as possible. Hard water minerals can build-up on laundry in the wash, causing them to feel stiff and even fade faster over time. A water softener will help you keep expensive back-to-school clothing in great shape while decreasing the amount of detergent required for each load of laundry that you do.

In fact, many water softener owners say that they also no longer need to purchase fabric softener. Less detergent and fabric softener means more money in your pocket! Live in a rural area? If so, you might have more than hard water issues. Iron is a common problem for those living in the country because it will leave rust stains on anything your water touches, including your clothes! Prevent the embarrassment of sending your kids off in outfits that look dingier every time you wash them.

Spend Less Time and Money on Chores

During the school year, most students get involved in activities that keep the entire family busy. What if you could carve out a little extra time in your schedule by reducing the time it takes to do chores? Hard water minerals like calcium and magnesium can build up on showers and sinks which requires extensive cleaning. Treating your home's hard water will actually reduce the time it takes to clean your kitchen and bathrooms, and also cut back on the number of laundry loads you need to do. Additionally, most WaterMax Signature Series owners find they use less cleaners and detergents to get the job done thanks to soft water.

Savings Really Add Up with WaterMax

Just how much do WaterMax Signature Series owners save? The chart below shows monthly and yearly savings a typical household may realize: Figures based upon the average family of 4 with an average water hardness of 10 grains per gallon. A WaterMax Signature Series will provide you with serious savings along with great water your family will enjoy for years to come. This fully customizable water treatment system is user-friendly and gets you softened and filtered water from every tap in your home, every time. Ready to see for yourself how a WaterMax Signature Series will improve your home's water and save you money? Contact your local Hague Water Dealer today!

Hague Introduces the WaterMax(R) Signature Series

2022-08-05T00:00:00.05Z

Hague Quality Water International is proud to announce the newest addition to our line of advanced water technologies - the WaterMax® Signature Series. This highly efficient water softener is fully customizable to solve all of your unique water problems.

A Proven Track Record of Quality Water Innovation

In 1960, William R. Hague devised an efficient alternative to the industry standard water softener. This vision set the stage for a legacy of innovation, which includes many patented designs. The Signature Series is the latest contribution to Hague's rich history.

The WaterMax Signature Series Puts a Premium on Water

Whether you are looking for better quality drinking water, increased home efficiency, or an eco-friendly solution, the Signature Series delivers. Unlike standard single compartment systems, it features a sleek, three-compartment design that can be tailored to address your specific water needs.

Your authorized Hague dealer will complete a water test and recommend the best media configuration for your home. With the Signature Series, you'll never wonder when salt is needed. An integrated salt monitor comes standard with this comprehensive system. You will receive audible and visual alerts indicating your salt level is low. The monitor will also let you know if a salt bridge has formed in the brine tank.

With the WaterMax Signature Series, l you will always have peace of mind knowing your system is working as it should.

Start Benefiting From a Whole House Water Solution

Premium water is just a call away. Contact your local authorized dealer to customize your WaterMax Signature Series solution today!

Stay Hydrated with a Reverse Osmosis Water Purification System

2022-07-05T00:00:00.05Z

Staying hydrated is never more important than during the season of summer, with its increased temperatures and our extra outdoor activities. Getting enough water every day is essential for:

Regulating body temperature
Keeping joints lubricated
Properly nourishing cells
Preventing infection

Promoting organ health
Improving sleep quality
Enhancing cognition and mood
Getting rid of waste

According to the experts, men should have about 3.7 liters or 125 ounces of water per day. The optimal amount of water for women to consume each day is 2.7 liters or 92 ounces. While consuming the amount of water our bodies need each day is important, many of us just don't seem to accomplish this goal.

What Keeps Us From Drinking the Water We Need?

People don't get their recommended daily water intake for a variety of reasons. Some simply don't think about getting a glass of water, while others prefer soft drinks. One of the most common objections people have is that they simply do not like the taste of their tap water. Many who rely on expensive and waste-generating bottled water may be reluctant to go through 6 to 8 bottles per day. If you are among the many who avoid drinking enough water due to the expense and inconvenience of bottled water, imagine having an unlimited supply of clean, fresh tasting drinking water that comes straight from your tap.

Healthy Drinking Water on Demand with Reverse Osmosis

Reverse Osmosis is considered the answer for a wide range of contaminant removal. It can handle dissolved solids and many man-made chemicals, like fluoride. Many models are also certified for natural contaminants - such as arsenic - that comes from groundwater. Reverse Osmosis water treatment forces water through a semipermeable membrane which effectively captures and contains contaminants. The membrane is made of a material that only allows water to pass through while blocking everything else, which makes it a great way to purify water inside your home. Hague Reverse Osmosis Systems have carefully engineered membranes that stand up to daily use. They filter even the smallest particles and include additional steps to ensure the water it provides is both cleaner and healthier.

Hague Reverse Osmosis Water Purification Systems

H3500 WATER FILTER

Hague's H3500 RO system filters water from chlorine, sediment, and other particles, for high quality drinking water for you and your family. This system features multi-stage filtration and a permeate pump. Get peace of mind while giving your family the best quality drinking water.

H6000 WATER FILTER

Hague's durable H6000 RO system is built to generate less waste while dispensing high quality water for your entire home. This non-electric system has been engineered to lower utility bills. Packed with a long reach dispensing spigot with an air gap, it generates less waste and dispenses healthier water throughout your whole home.

HRO WATER FILTER

Hague's HRO water filter system reduces unpleasant tastes and smells from chlorine/chloramines used by your city during the water treatment process. It also reduces fluoride, lead, nitrates/nitrites, and more, to provide clean drinking water for the entire household.

Installing a Reverse Osmosis water treatment system is an ideal first step toward making sure everyone in your household stays healthy and hydrated with water that tastes great. Hague has the most efficient and eco-friendly RO systems available for pure, clean drinking water.

Contact your local Authorized Hague Dealer to learn more.

Preventing Problems with Water Softener Maintenance & Service

2022-05-24T00:00:00.05Z

Like many of the other home appliances you depend on everyday, water softeners require consistent maintenance to ensure proper performance. Upon installation, your local authorized dealer will configure your water softener or WaterMax conditioner to be set on a regeneration cycle that meets the needs of your household.

Correct set up is the first step in achieving dependable performance, so they will learn a lot about what is in your water and how much your family typically uses in a day to find the best settings for you. From there, the owner must provide salt as recommended to maintain its performance.

Additional maintenance required beyond salt replenishing will depend on the type of water softener or conditioner you have. When problems occur, a system service call should be scheduled as soon as possible to prevent issues from worsening.

Water Softener Problems

Problems with water softeners can occur, just like any other mechanical equipment you may own. Depending on the design of your water softener or conditioner and how dedicated you are to proper maintenance, you may never experience any water softener problems. Here are some water softener issues that may occur:

Salt Bridges

Problems with your water softener or conditioner may go undetected until you begin to notice the water quality has become unacceptable, or as it was before you had your water softener installed. One such issue is the development of a salt bridge. A salt bridge can form in the brine tank of the softener, where the brine solution is created for the regeneration process. The bridge is actually a hard, crusty layer of salt that forms across the interior of the tank, creating a solid barrier that prevents the salt that is added to the tank from reaching the water that needs to be treated. Salt bridges can be prevented with proper use and care when you add salt to your system. Here are three tips to keep in mind to prevent salt bridges:

Make sure the brine tank lid is securely closed after adding salt
Use the proper salt that is recommended by your softener manufacturer
Be sure you are not overfilling the brine tank when you add salt

Channeling

Channeling or tunneling happens in a water softener tank when the water does not flow through the whole bed of the water softener tank. It can be the result of the water flow rate being too low of the size of the softener tank. The hard water creates a path or channel through the resin that has become oversaturated with mineral ions. Channeling results in the inefficient use of the resin and poor water softener system performance. The issue of channeling is mostly a matter of the design of the water softening system. Conventional water softener designs tend to be prone to this issue. At Hague Quality Water, we have engineered a baffle that helps evenly distribute the in-coming water across all of the resin inside to ensure your water receives the level of treatment you have come to expect. Make sure the flow rate is correctly set to help prevent this issue.

Compromised Filter

With some types of water softeners and conditioners, a common performance problem may be the result of a compromised or dirty filter. Some water softeners use filters at the start of the process to remove large particles. These filters come into contact with a great deal more sediment than do the other components of the softener, so they become used up more quickly. If your water softener requires filter changes, you will need to keep up-to-date with filter replacement maintenance to make sure your water softener functions properly. Some water softeners have no filter included at all, which means those particules can get stuck in the working mechanisms inside your system. That would also result in places that would require regular maintenance and cleaning to keep the system working properly. With a Hague WaterMax water conditioner, it includes resin to soften your water as well as customizable filter chambers. These areas can collect particles that rinse away to the drain without needing the frequent and costly filter changes.

Hague Softeners Reduce Service and Maintenance

Hague water softeners are engineered to prevent problems from occurring. They are based on upflow soft water regeneration for more effective use of the water softener resin. This design ensures that the water is distributed more evenly through the resin bed to optimize the use of all of the resin and prevent channeling. Another thing that makes Hague water systems design unique is the use of "fine mesh" resin beads.

Since the sodium ions attach to the surface of the resin, the more resin beads that come into contact with the water, the more effective and efficient the cycle becomes, reducing the stress on the resin beads. Fine mesh resin is much smaller, so more beads can be fit in tightly packed spaces than regular resins. Hague's unique vacuum packing process ensures that all of our water softener models have the greatest capacity for hard water treatment in the smallest space possible.

Hague water softeners are also designed to simplify maintenance. For example, the WaterMax is very efficient, requiring very little water and salt to operate. It also has an optional audible salt alerts feature so you know exactly when to add more salt. It also has a built-in, self cleaning filter that never needs to be replaced.

Contact one of our authorized Hague dealers to discuss how we can meet your water treatment needs!

City Water Treatment - Is It Really Enough?

2022-05-10T00:00:00.05Z

City water treatment facilities are an engineering marvel, and absolutely vital to the health and well-being of urban communities. The rivers, lakes, and groundwater that provide our water for drinking, hygiene, and more have varying degrees of contamination in the form of dirt or other natural impurities, bacteria, and parasites. Water must be treated to remove health threats before it is delivered to your home.

Like the other utilities that are delivered to your home, it might seem like city water should be ready to use without further treatment. But is that actually true?

Does Municipal Treatment Include a City Water Softener?

Municipal water treatment facilities are only required to assure that the water they distribute meets the EPA standards for health and safety for consumption. Since the minerals that are in hard water are safe to drink, there are usually no city water softener systems or requirements for the removal of the hard water elements that can have a damaging effect on your home, skin, and hair.

Minerals like calcium and magnesium carbonate could be compromising the quality of city water since hard water is found in over 85% of the United States.

Is City Water Filtration Necessary?

A common issue with city water is the addition of chlorine as a part of the municipal treatment process. Varying levels of chlorine are added to the water to keep it free from bacteria as it is delivered to individual homes. After the treated city water reaches those homes, the chlorine is no longer necessary. Since chlorine results in problems like objectionable tastes and odors in water, as well as having a drying effect on skin, many homeowners elect to install a city water filter in their home to reduce this chemical.

Another filtration system can also remove the PFOA chemicals and lead, which could be introduced into water after it leaves the facility that will not be affected by the protection that the chlorine additive brings. The best way to know whether or not you need a city water softener or filter is to have your water tested. An analysis of your city water supply can identify the problems that might be causing scum build up in the tub, dry skin, or water that tastes like the community pool.

WaterMax is Your City Water Softener and City Water Filter in One!

Growing numbers of city dwellers depend on the WaterMax Water Softener + Filter for whole-house softening and filtering. The WaterMax is user-friendly and provides fresh, softened and filtered water from every tap in your home.

Built-In Bypass - Get softened water when you need it, bypass the unit when you don't
Smart Touch Controller - Customized settings for specific water needs
Audible Salt Alerts - Alerts you when your softener needs more salt - no need to guess (this is an optional add-on feature)
Built-In Dirt & Sediment Filter - Save time and money with the built-in pre-filter
Whole home Chlorine Filter- Activated carbon media inside absorbs the chemical
Softening Resin - High capacity fine mesh resin reduces hardness minerals
Quiet Regeneration - Resin beads renew quickly and quietly with minimal water wasted
Power-Loss Protection - Saves your customized settings in case of power loss

Additional City Water Protection

If you do have concerns that your water source may be exposed to PFOA chemicals from industrial run off, or you are living in a city with an older plumbing infrastructure that includes lead pipes, it is important to shop for a water filter certified to reduce those exact chemicals.

At Hague Quality Water, we proudly offer the ONE(R) cartridge filter with an option that is NSF certified to capture PFOA, lead, and cysts from your water. That way you know that whether you're filling a glass of water in your kitchen or in your bathroom, every sink is serving up filtered water you can trust.

Contact your local authorized dealer to learn more about the WaterMax city water treatment solution or ONE filter today!

InterFlo(TM) Offers a Better Drinking Water Solution

2022-04-05T00:00:00.05Z

Hague is excited to offer an innovative approach to better drinking water - the InterFlo® complete filtration system. A dependable solution for both residential and commercial applications, the InterFlo water filtration filter system provides filtered water on demand.

Noticeable Drinking Water Improvement at an Entry-Level Price

The InterFlo system comes complete with a universal match head that can pair with all versions of filter cartridges available, making cartridge changes easier than ever before. The filtration results in a noticeable improvement in taste and odor problems, such as chlorine. Available at a conveniently affordable price, this easy-to-use and simple to install faucet filter produces comparable results to higher-end filters.

Now any homeowner can have better drinking water at a fraction of the price of conventional filtration systems. Even better, our InterFlo filters can install right into your existing cold water line. Which means there's no need to drill into your countertop to accommodate a second faucet if you don't want to.

Choose From Two Easy and Convenient Options

The InterFlo filtration system is available in two models:

MODEL IF-14 - IAPMO tested and certified to NSF standards 42 and 53 to reduce chlorine, lead, and cysts
MODEL IF-15 - an effective solution for reducing foul taste and odor

Both of these models offer a quick and convenient alternative for those who want filtered water, but don't want to attach a bulky, cumbersome filter to the end of their faucet, deal with the hassle of pitcher filters, or continuously waste money buying bottled water.

Owners can either install this system and filter the cold water line of any faucet, or use a separate dispensing faucet. The second option allows for optimal flow and extends cartridge life by avoiding the processing of water for dishwashing or other non-consumable purposes.

Innovative InterFlo Filter Features

InterFlo Filters are in-line filters that install on your cold-water line before it reaches your faucet. The IN/OUT head has the versatility to mount horizontally or vertically under the sink and can be used with all InterFlo model cartridges, so you can switch between the IF-14 or IF-15 as needed.
Each InterFlo cartridge is designed to fit seamlessly with the system head, and is able to filter up to 7,900 gallons before needing replacement. A quick twist unlocks the cartridges for fast and easy changes.
Compressed carbon provides the performance power behind the InterFlo filters. Tightly packed media allows water to pass through while trapping material that may be compromising the quality of your water.

Ready to learn more? Contact your local Hague Water Dealer.

What Makes The Best Water Softener System

2022-02-23T00:00:00.05Z

It is easy to decide that you want to enjoy the benefits of softened water in your home. What may be a little more difficult is deciding what the best water softener system will be to meet your needs. This blog post will take a look at some of the most important considerations for water softener buyers.

Consider Your Water Needs

Determining the best water softener for your home involves evaluating features according to your home's particular needs. This means looking at your home water usage and specific water problems. Important features that will help you determine the best water softener to meet your needs include contaminant removal, filtration capabilities, size, ease of operation, regeneration capabilities, efficiency, cost of maintenance, and warranty. Below, we look at these features, as well as how the Hague WaterMax addresses those needs.

Contaminant Removal & Filtration Capabilities

When selecting a water softener, whether you have well water or city water will help to decide on the right softener. It is also necessary to have your water tested to determine the specific contaminants you're dealing with, and ultimately the best system to remove them.

The signs of hard water, like scale build-up, can be obvious but there may be other things in your water that are more stealthy. It is good to know right away if you need a system that can handle more than just hard water.

WaterMax offers distinct advantages as a comprehensive, whole-house water treatment system in a single appliance. It has three treatment phases to ensure water is thoroughly treated to remove a variety of contaminants, such as chlorine from city water or iron content commonly found in well water. It can be equipped with additional filter options for a complete solution no matter where you live or what is in your water.

Water Softener Size

Calculating water usage will help you determine what size water softener system will be best to meet your needs. Water softeners include specifications on what capacity of hardness they are able to handle before they need to regenerate. Typically, we recommend using a product that can provide treated water for your home for 3-5 days before it needs to run it's regeneration cycles.

The size of the system that is able to do that will depend on the number of people in your family and your water-using habits. "Family A" with 4 kids may use more water on a regular basis than "Family B" of the same size right next door, because their kids participate on sports teams. "Family A" ends up taking more showers after practice and doing more laundry to support those hobbies. They would need a different product or special settings programmed into their softener's computer to accommodate those habits.

WaterMax is unique in that its patented design offers flexibility to meet a range of water needs by regenerating on demand - by date or water usage. It also features unique settings to ensure that if your household does see an abnormal increase in water usage, it keeps an extra "reserve" available so you can still get softened water, even before it is supposed to regenerate.

Ease of Operation

With any home appliance, including water softeners, ease of operation is an attractive feature. Generally speaking, as long as you continue to add the necessary salt a water softener runs independently without action from the owner, but some have additional features that enhance user-friendliness.

Hague has equipped the WaterMax with a host of features to optimize ease and efficiency:

Computerized, fully customizable controls
Built-in, self cleaning filter (no filter replacements)
Audible salt alerts - know when your softener needs more salt
Saves customized settings in case of power loss
Built-in bypass, so you can save softened water when you need to water your lawn
Customizable blending option to dial-in to the perfect level of soft water for your preference

Regeneration Capabilities and Efficiency

Saving money is very important in most households, so efficiency will be an essential consideration in determining the best water softener system. Here is where the benefits of one water softener over another might not be so obvious. It is important to do some research. Here are some of the efficiency factors WaterMax owners enjoy:

Softens & filters in up to 80% less time
Uses up to 50% less salt
Uses up to 80% less water
Renews resin beads quickly and quietly with as little water wasted as possible

Cost of Maintenance and Warranty

The time and expense associated with water softener maintenance should be considered before deciding on a water softener purchase. The money you spend on salt and filter replacements are a significant part of what the system will ultimately cost you. You also want to be sure that your softener is backed by a solid warranty. This is another area where the WaterMax shines. The built-in, self-cleaning filter eliminates replacement filter costs, and it's efficient regeneration process means 50% less salt use. The WaterMax is also backed by a 25 year warranty. We take great pride in the quality of our products. Every WaterMax is designed, assembled, and tested in the U.S.A. before it leaves the factory to ensure its quality.

The Best Water Softener System for You

There are many water softeners available to choose from, which can make coming to a decision difficult. Let our water treatment experts help by testing your water and determining exactly how much hardness you're dealing with and recommend the right system tailored to your family's usage needs.

Contact your local authorized Hague Dealer to have a water expert provide you with a free in-home water test.

Water Savings Calculator Shows How Much You Can Save with a Hague Water Softener

2022-01-14T00:00:00.05Z

When households switch from untreated hard water to softened water, they notice many things. Tap water smells and tastes better, skin and hair are smoother, laundry looks brighter, and fixtures stay cleaner. Over time, water softener owners also notice more money in their monthly and yearly budget. How much could you be saving with a Hague water softener? Check out our cost savings calculator below to find out!

How a Water Softener Saves You Money

Since water plays such an important role in daily living, there are many ways low quality water can affect your budget. Here are some examples:

Drinking Water - For many people, bottled water is an item on the weekly grocery list because they don't like the taste of their tap water. If you have a high level of hard water minerals in your water, it can make it taste bitter. A home water softener significantly reduces those minerals allowing you to refill your own bottles, saving tremendously on money as well as wasted plastic.
Soaps and Cleaning Products - Because hard water minerals interfere with the chemistry in soaps, personal and household cleaning products work more effectively with softened water. That means you don't have to use as much of the product to get the job done.
Hot Water Usage - Hard water interferes with the efficiency of your water heating. Mineral deposits collect on the heating element to create a thick stone-like coating, forcing water heaters to work harder to raise the temperature of your water. A water softener prevents the calcium from ever entering your unit and allows your water heater to operate much more efficiently.
Plumbing and Appliances - Hard water is also hard on your plumbing and water using appliances. Just like your water heater, washing machines, dishwashers, coffee pots, humidifiers, and anything else in your home that uses water can be a victim of calcium build-up. Water softener owners find they need to repair or replace water using appliances less often. This scale build up can also clog your pipes which will restrict water flow over time.
Clothing and Linens - It does not take long for hard water build-up to ruin light and white laundry items. The tell tale "dingy" gray or yellowing fabrics are caused by the minerals bonding with your detergent and getting stuck between the fibers. This caked up residue is also what can lead to your towels feeling stiff and scratchy. Clothes and linens washed in softened water stay clean and bright, and last much longer than those washed in hard water.

The Water Savings Calculator Shows How Much You Can Save

At Hague Quality Water, we developed an easy way to estimate just how much money you can save on your household costs per month or year.

Are you ready to start enjoying significant savings with a Hague water softener? Contact your nearest water treatment dealer to set up an appointment.

Common Water Problems by Location

2021-09-23T00:00:00.05Z

We hear all the time about local things, whether it is food preferences, sayings, or favorite pastimes. But water problems? Not so much. As it turns out, water problems do tend to change based on the particular region of the US. When you think in terms of geography, it only makes sense that coastline areas may be different from the Great Plains when it comes to their water quality. Since finding the right water treatment solution for your home begins with identifying your specific water problems, looking at water issues that are common in your part of the country might be a good place to start your research.

West Coast Water Problems

West coast water issues vary based on topography. For example, while water tends to have less minerals in Oregon and Washington, most of California has hard water. Another issue seen on the west coast is fertilizer runoff, which can create pockets with high nitrates contamination. Certain parts of the west coast also have water sources that have a pH lower than 7, meaning it is acidic. The Bull Run watershed that provides the city of Portland's water is one example of an area affected by acidic water. Low pH water is more corrosive and will eat away all your plumbing and fixtures, and if left untreated, will make the walls of your pipes so thin that they will puncture under the pressure from the water inside. Being next to the ocean can bring some beautiful views, but with it also comes salt water intrusion. Ground water from a well or cities that utilize surface water from a nearby lake or river are considered fresh water sources because they do not contain any salt. The closer you are to an ocean, the higher the risk of salt water mixing with the fresh water and changing the taste.

You may wonder why having a drought would make a difference to the quality of your water. Hard water is going to be hard water no matter if you have a lot or a little, right? That's not necessarily true. If you imagine a glass that has 12 ounces of water in it and just a dash of salt, when you drink it, it probably won't taste that bad. But if you put a dash of salt into just 1 ounce of water, it'll taste a lot stronger. That same principle can be applied to a larger scale when it comes to your water supply.

Any contaminants that exist become more concentrated and lead to problems faster when there is less rainfall. Common water issues in California, Oregon, and Washington include:

HARDNESS: Causes scale build up that reduces a home's efficiency

NITRATES: Potential health risks for infants and unborn babies

ACIDITY: Corrodes home's plumbing and fixtures

DROUGHT: Low water tables cause higher mineral content

SALT INTRUSION: Seeps into water supplies from the ocean

Mountain Water Problems

The mountainous states have geographic characteristics that can create complex water quality challenges. Granite and limestone minerals dissolve into the water making hard water the region's predominant issue. Arsenic is also often seen in this area. Arsenic is a naturally occurring substance that comes from the ground the water travels through to get to your home and can be a concern when it comes to your drinking water.

Hydrogen sulfide is also found in nature and can be picked up by your water. This is the cause of the "rotten egg" odor that sometimes happens to well water. There is no negative affect to your health if you have hydrogen sulfide in your water, but often the smell is so bad you wouldn't want to drink it or shower in it. Water problems in Arizona, Colorado, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, New Mexico, Utah and Wyoming:

HARDNESS: Causes scale build up that reduces a home's efficiency

ARSENIC: Potential health risks from ingesting

ACIDITY: Corrodes home's plumbing and fixtures

HYDROGEN SULFIDE: Creates foul rotten egg odors

Central Water Problems

The Missouri Valley area water is known to have heavy iron content, especially in Nebraska, eastern Kansas and eastern Oklahoma. Iron in your water can either be dissolved so your water still looks clear, or it could still be in a particle form that will actually make your water look like a dark orange or brown color. In either case, the iron deposits left on your sinks, showers, and appliances will leave very stubborn rust stains. Hydrogen sulfide is also common in this area which causes those same "rotten egg" odors found in the mountain region.

Agriculture is widespread throughout the area due to the flat wide open areas of rich soil and their high amounts of rainfall. America produces about one third of the corn and soybeans that are used throughout the world and over 80% of that comes from the Midwest. This high farming business also means that there are a lot of fertilizers used to ensure the crops are hearty and plentiful, which means nitrates can also be a problem.

Chlorine is a water contaminant that is common across the entire country because all cities have to include it in order to keep water safe from bacteria as it is traveling to your home, but the Midwest states are being flagged because not all city water is the same and most of the worst culprits fall into this area. Some municipalities increase the amount of chlorine because the water has to travel a longer distance, and others include both chlorine and ammonia (also known as chloramines) to create an even more potent disinfectant. These added chemicals are good at preventing bacteria but once the water has reached your home, it's no longer necessary and can cause strong taste and odors in your water. It'll also dry out your skin and hair. Common water problems in Iowa, Kansas, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, South Dakota, Oklahoma, and Texas include:

HARDNESS: Causes scale build up that reduces a home's efficiency

NITRATES: Potential health risks for infants and unborn babies

CHLORINE: Used by cities to protect water as it travels to your home. Causes strong, unpleasant odors

IRON: Discolors water, stains, fixtures and appliances, effects taste

HYDROGEN SULFIDE: Creates foul rotten egg odors

Common Great Lakes Water Problems

The Great Lakes states' water problems can vary within the same state. For example, in the western and northern parts of Wisconsin, acidic water can be common but it isn't very hard, while in the southern part of the state water tends to be hard without having an issue with the pH levels. The same could be said about upper Michigan and lower Michigan. Red stains from iron and iron bacteria issues are typical throughout the Great Lakes states.

Michigan has also received a lot of attention in recent years for their lead contamination in publicly supplied water. Lead becomes a more prevalent issue the further east we go across the United States, because there are cities that have been established for decades longer than other parts of the country and their infrastructure is still utilizing plumbing from that era. Lead pipes used for plumbing were banned in 1984 after people realized the negative health effects it causes, but many cities have not replaced all of their plumbing.

The people of Flint, MI made national headlines but many large, old cities also have this problem, like Milwaukee and Chicago. As we focus on the states surrounding the Great Lakes, we should also mention the introduction of tannins in their water. Tannins are decayed vegetation from trees, swamps, and other plantlife. This organic debris can get into the water supply and cause it to look like a yellow or tea color. Tannins are not harmful to your health, but they can make your water not taste very good or smell "earthy." Typical water issues in Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Minnesota, Ohio, and Wisconsin include:

HARDNESS: Causes scale build up that reduces a home's efficiency

ACIDITY: Corrodes home's plumbing and fixtures

TANNINS: Organic matter that discolors water and effects taste

IRON: Discolors water, stains, fixtures and appliances, effects taste

SULFUR: Creates foul rotten egg odors

LEAD: Creates foul rotten egg odors

Northeast Water Problems

Most of the northeast doesn't really have to worry about hard water issues. Low pH is more common so many people end up having to neutralize their water in order to prevent corrosion or the stubborn blue-green stains on their fixtures. In New York, where water is hard, magnesium and calcium can raise water alkalinity to help balance out the acidic conditions so they don't have to worry about that as much. Municipal water treatment issues, such as high chlorine levels, are common throughout this area.

Another problem that is notorious in this area is arsenic in the water. Arsenic is naturally found in the ground in various parts of the country and could change over time. You may not have had arsenic in your well water 5 years ago but it has found its way in recently, and you would never know it because it can't be seen, smelled, tasted. That is why it is important to have your water tested at least once per year.

Much like the west coast, the east coast also needs to think about salt water intrusion from the nearby ocean. Lead in the city water supply is also common in this area because more east coast towns were built before World War I and contain a lot of history, so they aren't likely to tear up the streets to replace the old pipes. Frequent water issues in Connecticut, Delaware, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, and Vermont include:

ARSENIC: Potential health risks from ingesting

ACIDITY: Corrodes home's plumbing and fixtures

CHLORINE: Used by cities to protect water as it travels to your home. Causes strong, unpleasant odors

IRON: Discolors water, stains, fixtures and appliances, effects taste

SALT INTRUSION: Seeps into water supplies from the ocean

LEAD: Creates foul rotten egg odors

Southeast Water Problems

In southeastern states, residents commonly complain about yellow or brownish water. This discoloration is due to tannins, a decayed organic matter that penetrates the water supply. In northern Florida, rust orange stains are very common due to the high iron content in the ground there, which can make the removal of any tannins present even harder to tackle. There also tends to be more limestone in the bedrock of this part of the country and salt due to its proximity to the Atlantic ocean. Common water issues in Florida, Georgia, Virginia, West Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Kentucky, and Tennessee include:

HARDNESS: Causes scale build up that reduces a home's efficiency

TANNINS: Organic matter that discolors water and effects taste

IRON: Discolors water, stains, fixtures and appliances, effects taste

LEAD: Potential health risks from ingesting

SALT : Seeps into water supplies from the ocean

Test Your Water and Choose a Customizable Water Treatment Solution

While water problems can be common in particular areas, every home is unique, so water testing is imperative in determining effective treatment. Homes in any region can benefit from a WaterMax water treatment solution because the WaterMax is fully customizable. Unique among water treatment systems, WaterMax allows users to solve specific and multiple water problems with one highly-efficient system.

The unique WaterMax three compartment design allows for the use of additional custom media options to address specific treatment needs. Every WaterMax is built with fine mesh resin and Bacteriostat to prevent the development of bacteria.

For any concerns you may have about the water you consume, we offer certified Reverse Osmosis (RO) drinking water systems. These are tested and proven to remove contaminants like lead, arsenic, or nitrates to make sure your family is drinking purified water without having to rely on always purchasing bottled water from the store.

Contact your local authorized dealer to schedule your complimentary in-home consultation to learn more about the common water issues in your area. They can help customize your water treatment solution today!

Can Softened Water Be Too Slippery?

2021-07-06T00:00:00.05Z

Our customers report noticing a big difference in their water, once they start using their Hague water softeners. One thing they mention frequently is how smoothly softened water glides across the skin. Since softened water is free of the dissolved minerals contained in hard water, it is noticeably less abrasive. Many people will call soft water "slippery" because it will feel different than what they are used to. This new smooth sensation is the absence of those hardness minerals, which means no more scale build up throughout your home!

Is it possible for water to be too slippery?

In our experience we have actually had some customers complain that their water is too slippery after having a water softener or conditioner installed. They may find that the shampoo bottle slides out of their hands in the shower, or dishes may slip from their hands while washing them. In most cases, what's happening is that they are using the same amount of soap that they always have, without realizing that far less soap is now needed to get the job done. Since hardness minerals inhibit soap's ability to clean, it takes a lot more cleaning product to get suds and cleaning power when you have hard water. If people are in the habit of using a lot of soap and all of a sudden have soft water, there is way too much soap and sudsing, which of course, also makes things very slippery!

Depending on how hard their water is to begin with, we usually recommend that after the water softener is installed, customers use only a third or a half of what they're accustomed to using until they get in the habit of what is necessary with their newly softened water. If after adjusting soap levels, the water still seems too slippery, there is something else that the owners of Hague water softeners can do.

Hague water softeners have a "blending valve" that allows untreated hard water to be blended back into the softened water. There is a knob on the system that can be turned to find your perfect level of softness, much like turning the faucet to find the perfect temperature. You can have it all the way open for completely soft, or dial it back little by little until it feels just right.

Ready to find your perfect water solution? Contact your local authorized Hague Dealer today!