How do I know if I need it? Who can help me decide what I need? Although there is a difference in the terms water treatment, and water conditioning, for this paper, I will make no distinction between the two. In the water treatment industry, most dealers seem to use the terms in the same manner not knowing there is a difference. Both terms relate to improving the water to a point that it is safe and pleasing to use.

With test results in hand, coupled with what aesthetics issues you know about, you are ready to delve into the complex task of deciding on a treatment choice for your water supply. As in the testing phase, you will need to be fully involved in understanding the difference in all the choices that may be available. In simple treatment choices, there may be only one or two options to consider, thus making your choice easy. But the more things "wrong" with your water, the more complex the treatment system becomes. This is compounded by each professional's choice of treatment systems to solve your problems. It can become very confusing, so the more time you spend understanding the differences in these systems the more likely your informed choices will be the best choice for you. The "best" systems aren't necessarily the most expensive. There is rarely only one "right" choice. Many factors can determine the overall choice: (1) Type of existing pump system (2) Available room for new equipment (3) Pressure drop issues with multiple water treatment devices (4) Environmental or personal issues with certain chemicals and additives used in some treatment devices (5) Maintenance and reliability of proposed equipment. (6)Treat whole house (point of entry equipment) and/or at a single fixture (point of use).
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