Our plumbing Services
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Drain Clearing
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Hydro Jetting
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Kitchen Plumbing
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Leak Detection
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Bathroom Plumbing
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Toilet Repair
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Plumbing Shut-Offs
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Slab Leak Repair
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Burst Pipe Repair
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Repiping
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Water Line Services
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Sewer Camera Inspection
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Sewer Line Services
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Water Heater Services
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Gas Line Plumbing
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Tankless Water Heater Services
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Water Quality Solutions
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Plumbing FAQ's
How Does Water Softening Work?
Water softening systems operate primarily through the process of ion exchange, a method designed to remove hard minerals from water. At the heart of most water softeners is a resin tank filled with tiny polystyrene beads, which are positively charged and serve as the site for this exchange. When hard water enters the system, the beads attract and bind the calcium and magnesium ions while releasing sodium ions into the water. This exchange effectively reduces the concentration of hardness minerals, resulting in softer water that is less likely to form scale deposits and enhances soap’s cleaning efficiency.
Discuss why so many Florida homeowners trust our team to handle their water quality needs by calling (772) 275-3760 or contacting us online!
How Long Does a Water Softener Last in Florida?
The lifespan of a water softener in Florida can depend on several factors, including the type of system installed, the quality of your water supply, maintenance practices, and the level of water hardness in your area. Generally, you can expect a well-maintained water softener to last anywhere from 10 to 15 years.
Regular maintenance is crucial for maximizing a water softener’s durability, especially in areas like Florida, where hard water issues are prevalent and water usage is often higher due to the warm climate. Monitor your system's performance and look for signs of inefficiency, such as decreased water flow or increased soap usage. Addressing these issues early can greatly enhance the lifespan of your water softener.
Additionally, high-quality water softening systems equipped with durable components tend to last longer. Opting for brands known for their reliability and service in hard water areas can provide an added layer of assurance. We have strong relationships with equipment suppliers and can help you choose, install, and maintain a water softening solution that’s known for performance and longevity.
Are Water Softeners Worth It in Florida?
In Florida, the prevalence of hard water can vary significantly across different regions, with many areas experiencing high levels of mineral content. Port St. Lucie is one of those areas known for its hard water, so homeowners should consider testing their water and consulting with a hard water specialist, like the trained professionals at First Choice Plus Plumbing, Restoration & Air.
Does My Home Need a Water Softener?
Determining whether your home requires a water softener involves evaluating several factors, including water hardness, existing plumbing conditions, and your household needs. When you schedule a consultation with one of our Port St. Lucie water softening specialists, we can evaluate your circumstances and advise whether installing this equipment makes sense.
One of the primary indicators of hard water is the presence of scale build-up and mineral deposits in appliances and plumbing fixtures. If you frequently find white, chalky residues on faucets, showerheads, or inside your kettle, your home’s water is likely considered “hard” and could benefit from softening.
Testing the hardness of your water can provide concrete evidence. Home testing kits are readily available and can measure the concentration of calcium and magnesium ions. Generally, water hardness is classified as soft (0-60 mg/L), moderately hard (61-120 mg/L), hard (121-180 mg/L), and very hard (over 180 mg/L). If your readings fall into the hard or very hard categories, a water softener could greatly improve your water quality and, subsequently, your overall comfort.
You should also consider how you use water in your home. If your household regularly engages in tasks like laundry, dishwashing, and bathing, you might notice that hard water hampers the effectiveness of soaps and detergents. Increased soap consumption and unsatisfactory cleaning results can be signs that a softener would be advantageous. Softened water can enhance lathering, leaving your clothes cleaner and your skin feeling softer.
In addition to the practical benefits of improved cleaning, keep in mind the importance of protecting the longevity of your plumbing systems and appliances. Hard water can lead to the premature wear of water heaters, pipes, and fixtures, increasing maintenance, repair, and replacement costs over time. If your area is known for hard water, investing in a water softener may help mitigate these risks, ultimately saving you money on repairs and replacements in the long run.
SEE WHAT YOUR NEIGHBORS ARE SAYING!
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"I was very impressed. Rating is 5 star to me."
Jacob is a very knowledgeable with regard to our new 80 gallon water heater. He introduced himself to my wife and I. We could tell immediately that he knew exactly how to replace the large water heater. With in a few hours he had the unit in and we got our hot water up and running. I could not believe that he was able to install it without any help.
- Harold P. -
"He was very knowledgeable and congenial."
Mike was very straightforward and honest in answering all of my questions concerning a new home water conditioning system purchase and install. And on top of everything else, I can now say he did a super job installing the system!
- Steven B. -
"They will always be our first, and only, choice for plumbing needs here."
Truly superb and outstanding. We've used several plumbers here in Port St. Lucie and thought they were okay but when our kitchen sink wouldn't drain in our 50+ year old house, the others only charged money without fixing our problem. First Choice not only arrived quickly and charged a very fair price, they worked tirelessly snaking the sink plumbing and roof exhaust until the debris clogging things up was removed and our sink was in excellent working condition. We strongly recommend them.
- Brenda K. -
"Honest & concise assessment of the problem and the solution."
Excellent response time - our calls are always emergencies. They don't waste your time or money. Can't say enough good things.
- Former Customer -
"Same day appointment and issue resolved"
Satisfied customer. Jayden was professional and easy to talk to. He explained very clearly what the issue was and what was needed to fix it. He provided details of the work he was completing before and after he finished.
- Allison J. -
"Very quick response. Stand by their work."Representative friendly, honest, explain all that is going on. Great suggestions to resolve the problem. Neat, clean and polite. Well run company.- Andrew B.
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"Prompt and great service."
My washing machine hose was leaking. Called early this morning and Michael was at my house by 9:30. He took a look and told me right away what was wrong.
- Candida G. -
"They will be our definitive repair plumbing and AC company moving forward!"
First choice to the rescue… Again. They called back right away after I left a message, communicating with me throughout the day of their ETA and the tech knew exactly what to do.
- Mark T.
Benefits of Installing a Water Softener
If your home has hard water, installing a water softener is a no-brainer. Our Port St. Lucie water softening solutions are designed to deliver a wide range of quality-of-life solutions that come with transforming your water supply.
Some of the key benefits of water softening include:
- Improved appliance lifespan. Hard water can lead to scale build-up within appliances like water heaters, dishwashers, and coffeemakers, resulting in diminished performance and potential breakdowns. By installing a water softener, you can reduce this accumulation of scale, ultimately prolonging the life of these essential kitchen and household devices.
- Enhanced cleaning efficiency. Softened water works more efficiently with soaps and detergents. It produces more lather and reduces soap scum, leading to cleaner dishes, clearer glasses, and fresher laundry. This increased effectiveness helps lower your overall consumption of cleaning products, which can even translate to savings over time.
- Softer skin and hair. Many homeowners notice a marked improvement in skin and hair condition after installing a water softener. Hard water can leave a residue that dries out skin and hair, but soft water helps maintain moisture levels, leading to softer skin and shinier, more manageable hair. This can be particularly beneficial for individuals with sensitive skin or conditions like eczema.
- Reduced water spotting. Hard water often leaves unsightly water spots on faucets, shower doors, and dishes after drying. Softened water usually significantly reduces or eliminates these spots, leading to a cleaner and more aesthetically pleasing environment.
- Energy savings. Scale deposits that form in water heaters can insulate the heating element, requiring more energy to heat the water effectively. By preventing scale build-up with a water softener, your water heater can operate more efficiently, which can lead to lower energy bills, as less electricity or gas is required for heating.
- Easier cleaning. Softened water tends to be gentler on fixtures and plumbing, allowing for easier maintenance and cleaning. You’ll typically spend less time scrubbing mineral deposits from your sinks, bathtubs, and tiles, making your cleaning routine less labor-intensive.
