## Why Kitchen Sink Water Should Not Be Softened
Softened water is water that has had the minerals removed, such as calcium and magnesium. This is typically done using a water softener, which exchanges the minerals for sodium ions. While softened water may feel nice on your skin and hair, it is not recommended for use in kitchen sinks for several reasons.
### 1. It Can Damage Your Plumbing
Softened water is more corrosive than hard water, meaning it can damage your plumbing fixtures and pipes. This is because the sodium ions in softened water can react with the metals in your plumbing, causing them to corrode. Over time, this corrosion can lead to leaks, clogs, and other problems.
### 2. It Can Affect the Taste of Your Food
Softened water can make your food taste bland and flat. This is because the minerals that are removed during the softening process are responsible for giving water its flavor. Without these minerals, water tastes more like distilled water.
### 3. It Can Be Harmful to Your Health
Softened water can contain high levels of sodium, which can be harmful to your health if you consume too much of it. Sodium is a major risk factor for high blood pressure, heart disease, and stroke. If you have any of these conditions, you should avoid drinking softened water.
### 4. It Can Damage Your Appliances
Softened water can damage your appliances, such as your dishwasher and washing machine. This is because the sodium ions in softened water can react with the detergents in these appliances, causing them to build up and clog the appliances. Over time, this can lead to decreased performance and even premature failure of your appliances.
### 5. It Can Cause Problems with Your Plants
Softened water can be harmful to your plants. This is because the sodium ions in softened water can accumulate in the soil, where they can damage the roots of your plants. Over time, this can lead to stunted growth, yellowing leaves, and even death.
### 6. It Can Be More Expensive
Softened water is more expensive than hard water. This is because water softeners require salt to operate, which can add to your monthly expenses. In addition, softened water can be more corrosive than hard water, which can lead to increased plumbing repairs.
### When Should You Use Softened Water?
Softened water is not recommended for use in kitchen sinks. However, it may be beneficial for use in other areas of your home, such as your bathroom. Softened water can make your skin and hair feel softer and smoother. It can also help to reduce soap scum buildup on your shower doors and faucets.
If you are considering installing a water softener, it is important to weigh the pros and cons before making a decision. You should also consult with a qualified plumber to ensure that your plumbing is compatible with softened water.
## Conclusion
Softened water is not recommended for use in kitchen sinks. It can damage your plumbing, affect the taste of your food, be harmful to your health, damage your appliances, cause problems with your plants, and be more expensive. If you are considering installing a water softener, it is important to weigh the pros and cons before making a decision. You should also consult with a qualified plumber to ensure that your plumbing is compatible with softened water.