Mechanical filtration is the first step in the water purification process before softening it. This simple but extremely effective method is designed to remove all kinds of solid impurities from the water - sand, mud, rust, algae and other solid particles. These contaminants, if not removed at the outset, can impair the proper operation of the water softener and shorten its life.
In addition, larger particles of dirt can damage the delicate components of the water softening system, which can lead to costly repairs. The mechanical filter acts as a barrier, trapping these particles before they reach the softener.
How does a mechanical filter work?
A mechanical filter, often called a sedimentation filter, works by physically filtering out impurity particles from the water. It usually consists of a spongy filter medium that has small holes through which water must flow. Dirt particles that are larger than these holes are caught on the surface of the filter medium.
As the filter fills up, it starts to work even more efficiently, because impurities start to act as an additional filter medium. However, after some time, the filter will need to be replaced or cleaned so that it does not slow down the flow of water and become a source of contamination.
The use of a mechanical filter in a water softening system
The mechanical filter is especially important in water softening systems operating on the principle of ion exchange. In such a system, the softener contains a resin whose task is to replace calcium and magnesium ions (responsible for water hardness) with sodium ions.
If particles of impurities get on the resin, they can block the ion exchange sites, which will reduce the efficiency of softening. Even worse, they can damage the resin, which is a problem not only because resin replacement is expensive, but also because a damaged resin can start releasing calcium and magnesium ions back into the water instead of holding them in, resulting in a situation when the water softener increases the hardness of the water instead of softening it.
The mechanical filter plays an extremely important role in protecting the water softener head. It is a key component that is responsible for controlling the softening and regeneration process. Any solid contaminants such as sand, mud or rust can damage the precision mechanisms in the head, leading to its malfunction or even failure. A mechanical filter, properly selected and regularly cleaned or replaced, effectively sifts out these impurities, protecting the head and ensuring smooth and effective operation of the softener.
Choosing the right mechanical filter
Choosing the right mechanical filter depends on several factors. First, the size of the particles you need to remove. Mechanical filters are typically categorized by pore size, which measures in microns. The smaller the pore size, the more and smaller particles the filter can remove.
Second, the water flow that needs to be handled. Higher flow requires a larger filter or multiple filter system. Finally, the quality of the input water and its degree of contamination. Water with more impurities may require a more advanced filtration system, such as two-stage or three-stage systems.
Why a mechanical filter?
The mechanical filter is a key element in the water softening system, protecting the delicate components of the softener from solid impurities. This not only helps to ensure a long service life of the device, but also to maintain high water quality. Therefore, if you are considering installing a water softener in your home or business, do not forget about the mechanical filter. This little device can make a big difference in keeping your water softening system efficient and reliable.
