A device providing conditioned water without utilizing sodium chloride. These systems aim to mitigate the effects of hard water, preventing scale buildup and maintaining water pressure, through alternative methodologies. For example, a template-assisted crystallization (TAC) system transforms hardness minerals into harmless crystals that do not adhere to surfaces.
This approach is significant for individuals seeking to avoid the sodium introduced by traditional ion-exchange softeners, whether for health reasons or environmental concerns. These units can reduce the negative impacts of hard water, such as decreased appliance lifespan and increased soap usage, while also offering a more ecologically sound solution compared to salt-based softening.