Monday 31 January 2011

Water Softeners : Basics of Water Softening Systems

Water softener

Hard water usually consists of calcium and magnesium ions. Hard Water may also consist of other dissolved metals, sulphates and bicarbonates. Therefore, Hard Water is generally water with a high level of minerals. Hard Water is not dangerous but it may cause some problems scaling and even a deposit like limescale. Therefore, we need to soften hard water. The machinery used to turn hard water into soft water is known as Water Softener

A Water softener removes these ions that make the water hard. Not only calcium or magnesium, but also iron may be removed. This softener has to be directly connected to the water supply. These can work in automatic, semi-automatic or manual mode. Every type is rated on the amount of hardness it can remove, prior to regeneration. A good water softener can be used for several years. These need less maintenance.

However, some salt has to be filled after a specific time span. The three types of salt that are used are Rock salt, Solar salt and Evaporated salt. Rock salt is traditionally mined from underground salt deposits. Solar salt is obtained after evaporation of water. Evaporated salt is mined from underground salt deposits of dissolved salt. Rock salt is cheaper than the other two. However, cleaning the reservoir of this salt consumes a lot of time and energy. Water softeners may be time operated or water meter-controlled. The latter produce the softest water for a pound of salt. Water softeners operate on electricity or waterpower. The cost of a water softener depends on:
  • type of water softener
  • type of energy used
  • hardness of water
  • use of water
Water Softening Systems

In a water softener, ions of magnesium and calcium are replaced with potassium and sodium by using a medium. This process is as follows:

For the ion replacement, a resin bed of small plastic beads or zeolite is covered with sodium or potassium ions. Then, the water is passed through this bed. Here, swapping of the ions takes place. Finally, the beads contain only calcium or magnesium. Now, softening ceases and the beads have to be regenerated. These are flooded with a brine solution that has a large quantity of sodium or potassium. Backwash means that the calcium, magnesium, dirt and sediments are drained from the beads. Lastly, the mineral tank is rinsed with fresh water and the brine tank is loaded, so that it is ready for the next cycle. Automatic water softeners recharge periodically in such a way that the occupants are not harmed. These are very water-efficient and regenerate only when there is a necessity.

Types of water softening systems with top-mount valves are:
  • Compact water softening systems with meter regeneration
  • Compact water softening systems with timeclock regeneration
  • Heavy-duty water softening systems with meter regeneration
  • Heavy-duty water softening systems with timeclock regeneration
Home water softeners

These may be fully automatic or demand initiated regeneration models. The former has a timer that on its own starts each step in the regeneration procedure. This regeneration is done at night when water usage is less. In the latter, all procedures are done automatically as a response to the demand for treated water. The salt storage has to be enough for many regenerations.

Water softener problems

A small quantity of sodium enters the water from the softener. This is hazardous to those having hypertension or heart problems. It also affects the grass growth and vegetation. The bacteria in the septic tanks may get killed. This is overcome by using potassium chloride. Alternatively, a bypass pipe may be installed so that the water does not pass through the filter. Soft water leaches heavy metals from pipes and this can reach dangerous levels. The softening procedure can remove the minute quantities of minerals from water that are useful to health.

Water softener comparison

Different water softeners like TwinTec Water Softener, Clements Water Softener, CAI Tech, Fresh Water Systems, Fountain Sotfners and Worldwide Water Systems are compared on the basis of base, price and guarantee. Others like Culligan, Fresh Water Systems Ltd and CAI Technologies are also compared on the basis of base, type, online ordering, secure site and shipping.

Electromagnetic Water Softener

Hard water is undesirable for use in day-to-day household activities. It contains excess dissolved minerals that impart the hardness. The more the amount of minerals, the higher is the hardness scale or grains. If hard water is used for cleaning, it usually leaves water spots and marks after drying. Hard water can be softened by using traditional methods like boiling and adding salts but these are only temporary methods of water softening. Further, boiling or adding external substances may impart a peculiar taste and odor to the water.

Magnetic Water Softening

Magnetic water softening is the latest technology for treatment of water in order to make it suitable for various applications. With this system, hard water can be converted into soft water without adding substances, thus solving the problem of change in taste and odor. There are two types of magnetic water softeners, namely, electromagnetic or electronic water softener (EM) and magnetic water softener (M). Though both types operate on the basis of magnetism, the former requires electricity, while the latter does not. Regarding the cost of installation, electromagnetic type is less expensive in comparison to magnetic water softener.

Electromagnetic Water Softener: Working

Unlike other water softeners, an electromagnetic water softener does not remove dissolved substances, like calcium or magnesium from water. It just alters these substances and hence it is also called an electromagnetic water conditioner. This appliance is installed with magnets for generating electromagnetic fields, when electricity passes through the magnets.

As a part of the water softening process, the incoming hard water passes through the electromagnetic fields, which impart electrical charge on the mineral salts present in the hard water. The dissolved minerals salts are altered in such a way that they can no longer form lime scales. Thus, electromagnetic water softeners reduce the scale formation or water marks created by the minerals.

For better performance of an electromagnetic water softener, it is necessary to maintain certain water quality factors. The overall effectiveness of softening hard water may vary depending upon water hardness scale, amount of impurities present in water, temperature of the incoming hard water and rate of water flow. Only if the incoming water quality matches the requirements of the devices, then will the electromagnetic water softeners show acceptable performance.

Electromagnetic Water Softener: An Overview

Though electromagnetic water softener devices are available in the market for home use, their effectiveness is still controversial. The promoters and / or manufacturers claim that electromagnetic water softeners effectively solve the problems of hard water. According to them, water treated by using electromagnetic water softeners is safe for drinking as the generated electromagnetic field destroys the harmful bacteria, algae and disease causing microbes. However, water softener test and verification regarding their efficacy should be done prior to installation of such devices.

On a general note, the performance of such devices may vary from one house to another based on the water variables. It is also to be noted that high voltage lines installed near the electromagnetic field also negatively affects the effectiveness of water softening. Hence, fixing of the magnets and electric lines should be done properly. Electromagnetic water softener devices are reported to have positive results in large scale water purification systems such as industries and commercial complexes, in which the required water quality can be controlled according to the device.

Water Softener Troubleshooting

We'll start the discussion with the basic concept of water softeners and their importance in the American lifestyle.

In the event of water scarcity through the usual sources like river and other water bodies, underground water is predominantly used. There are aquifers present inside the ground that make the water available for general public use after subjecting it to the water purification systems. Now, underground water is not 'ready to use' type of water. It is hard water and has traces of calcium, magnesium and limestone present in it. Hard water actually is of a very little use for household purposes. It cannot be used to clean the daily use utensils nor is it fit for consumption and bathing purposes. To make hard water fit for daily use and consumption, it needs to be converted into soft water.

This is where water softeners come into the picture. Water softeners can be called as water filters that soften the water by eliminating all the unnecessary elements of hard water and make it useful for daily use, with the help of two tanks. One which is filled with salt and the other filled with special resins. These resins have the ability to soften water. For a normal household, water softeners are generally used twice in a week. Though water softeners are not used everyday, they need to be maintained at regular intervals. Failing to do so might lead to many problems and therefore you will have to run for its repair. Many people do not get an understanding of exactly where the problem is lying. But with this article water softener troubleshooting will no more remain a troublesome issue and you will also be able to get a basic idea of the problem, by understanding the water softeners and how they work.

Troubleshooting Water Softener Problems

Many people inquire, "How to troubleshoot water softener problems?" This article is an attempt to answer their question.

Softener Producing Hard Water: The most common problem observed in water softeners is that instead of soft water it produces hard water. The possible reasons for this are the decrease in the levels of salt in the brine tank or may be the by pass valve of the water softener is left open.

To fix the problem of the salts, it is advised to perform a regular check up of the levels of the salt. If the level has gone down it needs to be increased, so that the function of water softening is performed properly. If the by pass valve is found open, it needs to be promptly closed, otherwise the problem will not get solved, no matter how correct the levels of salt are.

Low Water Pressure: Now, this problem has got to do something with incorrect installation of the water softener. While installing the water softener, know the availability of inlet pressure, the necessary flow rate and also the plumbing layout of the place. It needs to be remembered that higher the piping line, lower is the pressure. Ideally, the pressure declines by about 1 psig after every 2 feet or so. Therefore, in order to get the right water pressure, it is necessary to consider this decline and accordingly install the systems.

Leaking Out of Drain: Sometimes it so happens, that water starts leaking out of the drain when the control valve is in its service position. This however, is found to be happening if the piston seal gets damaged due to breakage or if there is some other foreign material found in between the piston and its seal. In order to fix this problem, it is advised to change the piston along with its seals.

So folks, these were some commonly observed problems with water softeners. Hopefully, this article will prove useful to you, for troubleshooting water softener problems. Actually, you will never face any problems with your water softener and moreover, it will serve you for a long time if you get it installed properly and maintain it regularly. However, it is after all a machine and it is bound to have problems at some stage. Therefore, the next time you see any defects, remember these tips on water softener troubleshooting and take preventive steps to repair your water softener.

Water Softener Installation

The water is classified as hard or soft, depending upon the minerals and their amount present in it. If the water contains ions of minerals such as calcium, magnesium and iron, then it is termed as hard water. The hard water can cause blockages of pipes, by depositing lime scales in them. The chemical properties of hard water prevents easy dissolution of soap and detergents, which leads to wastage of money. The water softener devices, also referred to as, ion exchangers soften the hard water by replacing the calcium and magnesium ions in it with sodium or potassium ions during water ionization. You may prefer to install an electromagnetic water softener.

How to Install a Water Softener?

The task of water softener installation is a bit tough to undertake, even if you are a person with dexterous fingers. Even a professional person, well acquainted with the task needs considerable time to finish water softener installation. If you are confident and like tinkering with instruments, go ahead and read the following instructions on how to install a water softener:
  1. The first step is to identify the place where you can install the water softener in your house.
  2. Next, locate the spot, where the main water pipe enters your house.
  3. You may want to connect the water softener to this pipe and treat whatever amount of water enters your house.
  4. On the other hand, you may want to treat only a part of the total amount of water supply and use the untreated water which is free of sodium as drinking water. This will make it necessary for you to connect the water softener to a pipe branching off the main water pipe.
  5. The softening process generates waste materials, which are necessary to flush out of the water softener. This demands that you install the water softener, near a drain or a pipe leading to waste tank or a septic tank.
  6. The water softener needs electricity for its functioning. Install an electrical outlet, if the place you have selected for installing a water softener does not have one near it.
  7. The next step in the process to install water softener is to install the valve. This is required if you are going to connect water softener to the main water pipe. It will help maintain the undisturbed water supply to your house, if the water softener malfunctions and needs repairing.
  8. Follow the instructions in the user's manual to attach the bypass valve to the water pipe you have chosen to feed the water softener.
  9. Attach a plastic tubing, each to the overflow tank and to the water softener's outlet for draining the wastes and let the free ends of both of these tubes feed the drain or the waste tank you have selected.
  10. Connect the bypass valve to inlet and outlet valve of the water softener.
  11. Connect pipes to the bypass valves with the rubber O-rings acting as washers, between the connections.
  12. Turn the water supply on and test the installed water softener and the accessories.
  13. If the system is not working properly, check the user manual for the instructions or contact the customer care and get some advice.
  14. Go through the user manual and acquaint yourself with the basics of water softening systems and how to use a water softener machine effectively, so that you can start using your installed water softener, right away.
The water softener installation may cause you an additional expenditure. If you are using lead piping, it is advisable that you change them. Because when soft water flows through them, it may absorb the lead which may cause lead poisoning. Every household needs soft water for the purpose of bathing and washing cloths. If your house is supplied with hard water, then it may damage your shower water filters, laundry machines and water heaters and/or reduce the life of piping system in your house. It may also adversely affect any setup that is running on solar power, by clogging its pipes. Install a water softener to avoid these problems. If you want to know more about water softener installation, read more on, 'How to Install a Water Softener'.

Water Softener Problems

The process of water softening makes hard water suitable for use. The calcium and magnesium present in hard water is replaced by sodium. However, sodium too creates issues for people with health problem (hypertension and heart problems).

Water Softener Problems
A water softener is a device which proves to be useful in making the water usable. The problems associated with water softener systems are discussed in the following paragraphs. Some of the problems discussed about water softeners are specific, i.e. related to plumbing, sodium, etc. However, even common problems about water softeners are discussed below. 

Plumbing Problems
The installation of water softeners helps in resolving the issue of hard water. However, some other problems such as that of plumbing might arise. The water softeners which are big, create problems in the functioning of the plumbing system. The flow of water on the other hand is restricted by small water softening systems. The hard water from small water softening systems could leak and enter the plumbing system of the house. Heavy metals leached by the piping from softened water might create problems for the plumbing system.

Sodium-related Issues
Nowadays, people with health problems tend to avoid water that contains salts. The presence of sodium in water could be harmful for their health. There are chances of the occurrence of heart problems and hypertension in such people. To avoid this problem, one could use a bypass pipe. The pipe would provide cooking and drinking water which is not treated with sodium. There is also a bit expensive option of using potassium chloride instead of sodium chloride for the purpose of filtering.

Common Water Softener Problems
The common problems associated with water softeners are those pertaining to the improper functioning of motor, inefficient water softening, clogging of tubes, etc. Let us understand how to solve these problems.
  • In many cases, the water is not softened efficiently. The problems associated with it could be varied. However, taking the following step would save time and money. At first, the tank should be flushed. It should be seen whether there is a need to add salt. The next step would be to adjust the timer in a proper manner to increase the regeneration frequency.
  • There might be complaints about the motor not working at all. Before calling upon a professional, one should at least check whether the power supply is off/on and the plug is inserted in the socket.
  • Problem in the flow of the brine line is also common. In order to resolve this problem, one should flush the brine line. The filter screen and injector should then be examined. It should be replaced if any problems are found. The brine line should also be checked for any kind of damage or breaks. The ideal pressure that is necessary for the brine line to function properly needs to be maintained. One can refer to the water softener manual to know the ideal brine line pressure.
  • The iron content present in water could be too high i.e. it could exceed the limit. The first step in such cases is checking the filter followed by replacing, if necessary. The position of bypass valve should also be checked. Checking the plumbing leaks is also necessary.

Water Softener Maintenance

Hard water is not suitable for drinking, cooking, washing and other household activities. Due the presence of high amounts of minerals (calcium and magnesium), it forms scales in the pipes and cooking utensils. When combined with soap and detergent, hard water forms less lather and results in scum formation. Softening water and installing a water softener are effective methods to convert hard water into soft water. The former option is very costly and hence, a water softener is the best alternative to treat hard water for household utility purpose.

Among the several models of water softeners, an ion-exchanging resin device is the most popular unit. Similar to other home appliances, it can have many problems. Understanding the water softener parts and the working mechanism will help in easy solving of the problems. It consists of a resin bed containing negative ions (sodium, potassium or hydrogen). When hard water is passed through this resin bed, the negative ions bind to the metal ions, thus replacing minerals from the hard water. Water softeners are essential for generating drinking water and hence water softener maintenance is essential for maximum efficiency and longevity of the unit. Read more on water softeners - how they work.

How to Maintain Water Softener?

Maintaining a water softener system is simple and less time consuming, provided that you check the system on a regular basis. Prior to proceeding with any step for water softener maintenance, first go through the user manual provided with the unit. This will help you in easy identification and repair of the malfunctions. You can refer to the following points for water softener repair and maintenance:

Select the Salt Type
Based on the water softener model that you have purchased, you can check for the appropriate salt types. If you do not have much time for care and maintenance of the unit, then opt for evaporated salt. Though this salt is expensive than the rock and solar salt, the brine tank requires minimal cleaning if you use this salt. Read more on water filters.

Inspect the Salt Levels
Presence of adequate salt is necessary for replacement of the mineral ions and/or soft water supply. You can inspect the salt levels for at least once in a month. Ensure that the salt level reach about 1/3rd of the brine tank. It is better to refill the tank before the salt level falls below this appropriate level.

Clean the Brine Tank
Periodic cleaning of the brine tank and feeding salts (if necessary) is the most essential step for proper working of the water softener. The more water insoluble matter in the salt, the higher should be the frequency of cleaning. Thus, depending upon the salt type, you may require to clean the brine tank frequently, once in 2 months. Read on water purification systems.

Check the Resin Bed
Excess buildup of water insoluble substance in the resin bed may result in a poor quality water supply. Presence of high iron content in the water supply are noticeable signs for problems in the resin bed. You can remove iron deposits (if any) with the help of an iron remover or a resin bed cleaner.

Resin Bed Replacement
In most of the water softener models, the resin bed lasts for about 20-25 years. Hence, if the unit is not working properly, first check for malfunctions of the brine tank and other components. If nothing is wrong with them, then the resin bed may require replacement. If you notice algal and bacterial growth, then replace the resin bed.

How Does a Water Softener Work

It can be easy to give the importance of water a miss. But, water is such an important tool in our everyday lives that we cannot imagine a day sans water. But, sometimes we wonder, why the dishes we washed, get covered with spots after drying? Or what causes clogging up of the plumbing system? This is caused by the hardness in water, which requires to be softened for desirable results. What is softening of water and how does a water softener work? For this, we first need to discuss what is hard water and soft water.

Water with substantial quantities of dissolved minerals and salt is known as hard water. It is not suitable for domestic use, like for cooking, washing clothes, etc. This is because the dissolved calcium and magnesium salts can have adverse effect on efficiency of household appliances as a result of the salt clogging up pipes and water heating equipment. The mineral content in hard water also hinders the working of soaps and detergents by reacting with them to for a sticky scum and nullifies their effect. It is therefore, necessary to soften the water to make it more usable. Water softeners are appliances that reduce the salt and mineral contents in the hard water thereby making it soft. But, how does a water softener work? Let us discuss it now.

Working of Water Softener

While water is flowing, it dissolves soluble bits of the surface it passes over. Although this can include contamination which makes water unsuitable for consumption, in most cases it can simply mean that water has dissolved minerals picked from the earth. Out of these, calcium and magnesium adversely affect the ability of water to function in household activities and are responsible in making the water hard. This makes the use of water softener appliances very essential. Let us see how does a water softener work.

Even though electromagnetic water softeners have been introduced, an ion-exchange resin forms the basics of water softening system for household purposes. As discussed, hard water contains calcium and magnesium ions and the ion exchange resin holds sodium ions. When hard water passes through this resin structure, there is an exchange of ions as the calcium and magnesium ions trade places with the more reactive sodium ions present in the resin. Earlier water softener widely used a category of minerals called zeolites which also exhibit similar ion-exchanging properties. The basic idea is to replace the less reactive ions by more reactive ones forming stable salts which will not easily react further with any other chemical. After this ion exchange is done, the water leaving the resin structure is said to be soft water. Read more on water softeners - how they work.

Chemistry in the Ion Exchange Resin

To get a clear view of how does water softener work, it is important to know the chemistry behind all this. Basically, the resin is nothing but a network of small polyester beads, which are negatively charged. The hard water has positively charged calcium and magnesium ions. As opposites attract, mineral ions in the water cling to the beads as the hard water passes through the resin structure. To compensate the loss of positive charge in the water sodium ions take the place of the earlier mineral ions thereby effecting an ion exchange.

Now, what happens when the beads get saturated with calcium and magnesium ions? This important to know for water softener troubleshooting. At this point, regenerating cycle comes in to picture. A water softener has another tank which contains a highly concentrated brine solution. This concentrated solution is nothing but common salt dissolved in water and is sodium rich. It is now carried from this brine tank to the main mineral tank. The sodium replaces calcium and magnesium on the beads, which are flushed down the drain. Once the beads are sodium rich again, the excess brine is flushed off and the brine tank is topped up. Untreated water is fed to the main tank and the process is repeated. The water leaving the main tank is soft and has desired properties.

Now I hope you know how does a water softener work. Many of your queries regarding this common home appliance may have been answered. Although, there are some debatable health concerns with the consumption of softened water, it can be very beneficial for use in non-consumable purposes.

Water Softener Repair

Many of us consider water to be "harsh" if there are huge amounts of minerals like magnesium and/or calcium. Although it's a common misconception that hard water is always unhealthy for consumption, but instead it leaves a white buildup over the kitchen faucets and showerheads. Also, harsh water tends to minimize the soap's ability to clean properly which means you end up using more detergent to wash your laundry and more liquid soap to clean the dishes. While using water softeners, the mechanism calls for the devise to remove the minerals. Using soft water eliminates the build up over faucets and pipes, plus another advantage is that you go through less detergents and liquid soaps than you would with harsh water. So the unwanted minerals are replaced with necessary sodium and/or potassium ions. Read more on water softeners: how they work.

Repairing Water Softeners

At times, water softeners need to be repaired because of any issues with the control valve. You can either replace the valve with the distributor tube also. Another repair that might need your attention is the resin beads which needs to be replaced as they tend to wear out. No matter what the problem, the following steps will help you in understanding how to repair water softeners.

Materials Needed
  • Water softener
  • Water
  • Vacuum
  • Broom
  • Salt
  • Soap
  • Sodium hydrosulfite compound
  • Citric acid cleaner
  • Phosphoric acid cleaner or hydrochloric acid
Step #1: Turn your water softener system off. For that, you will need to search for the link between the electrical connection of the pipes to the house. You will see a valve that's indicating at "Soft", twist the valve in the other direction. Once you twist the valve, you can turn the main power off. Read more on water softener systems.

Step #2: A regular inspection is needed (at least once a month) to determine the exact quantity of salt left in the tank. A common error that occurs is that the water softener is out of salt (sodium chloride). You see, salt gets mixed inside the brine tank so that it can work its magic in removing the minerals from the harsh water. While filling the brine tank, you need to keep in mind that there is no trace of salt left and the tank gets refilled with 2/3 with rock salt or evaporated salt.

Step #3: Do a yearly inspection of the brine tank or else you will end up with salt domes in the tank itself. You will use the broom to scrape off extra salt or salt domes. Take a vacuum to remove all the unwanted sediments, apply soap and water to clean the tank.

Step #4: As you finish cleaning the brine tank, inspect the resin bed as well. See if it requires a cleaning as well. This bed is exactly next to the brine tank you just cleaned. The resin bed is responsible of the actual "softening" of the water. The minerals like iron, manganese, and silt are the ones that inflict issues inside the resin bed. You can use the chemicals mentioned in the materials needed list: Sodium hydrosulfite compound, phosphoric acid cleaner, and citric acid cleaner.

Step #5: To finish cleaning the resin bed, you will clear the injector first. Let the softener go through a cycle of manual cleanup, and then move on to the injector and the screen attached to it. This injector also gets clotted at times with the sediments that creep inside the softener with the salt.

Using rock salt is the best option as it is less expensive, but it does require more attention towards the water softener maintenance aspect of the softener. If you don't feel you have done an efficient job at the water softener repair, get a handy man to take a look at your final work.

Water Softener Reviews

Different water softener products are used to make hard water suitable for drinking and other household purposes. Hard water is not suitable for use, due to the minerals present in it. Magnesium and calcium are especially important in increasing the hardness of water. Water softener reviews of different products are provided in the paragraphs below.

Water Softener Reviews

Purchasing water softeners is quite an investment. Most of these products are priced at more than USD 1000 and it thus, becomes necessary to choose the products carefully. One should find the reviews provided below, quite useful. Water softener reviews consumer reports can also help you in making a decision about buying a particular water softener product. Read more on basics of water softening systems.

Water Softener Ratings
The best water softener reviews of available products in the market can be found in the paragraphs below. The features of water softeners and their prices mentioned below would help you in choosing a suitable product.

Aqua-Pure NFS100 Iron Reduction Water Softener: This water softener is useful in reducing iron content of water. The formation of pipe rust and soap scum is prevented by the use of water softened with this product. The stains which accumulate on toilets, tubs, sinks and clothes can also be removed with the softened water. The product is priced at USD 2,300.

Kenmore 370 Series Water Softener: This product is widely used in the United States. Water softened with the 'Kenmore 370 Series Water Softener' helps in cleaning fabrics without damaging them. A lighted screen display and manual salt tank light are the additional features which come with this product. The Kenmore 370 Series Water Softener is priced at USD 800.

Water Softener Comparison

The information about different water softeners is provided in the following paragraphs. Read more on water softeners - how they work.

Pelican NaturSoft Salt-Free Water Softener: The 'NatureSoft' water softening product brought into the market by Pelican helps in softening water; magnesium and calcium deposits which lead to the formation of hard-water scale and thereby clogging of faucets, shower heads, etc. The lifespan of appliances thus, increases and also the detergents prove to effective in soft water. The model, NS-3 of this water softener product is priced at USD 1,295.

Kinetico: The Kinetico water softeners are known for working on the principle of kinetic energy of water. Electricity is not needed to operate these systems. The water softeners of brand, Kinetico are known for convenience of usage. The products are not very expensive. Operational cost of these softeners is however, quite high. The expenses of maintaining the system too are greater than many other systems.

Kenmore: The Kenmore water softener products are available in different size ranges; small-sized and heavy-duty products are also available. Large particles are filtered out in the process of water softening. Using the Kenmore products helps in reducing the water softening cost by half, in comparison to regular/ordinary methods.

General Electric: 'SmartSoft' technology is the special feature of water softeners released by General Electric. The advantages of having SmartSoft technology is that water softening needs can be gauged, salt loss is minimized and energy is saved due to the use of low-capacitance transformers.The problem of hard water is quite serious in the United States and around 85% of the population has to deal with it. The water softening systems that are chosen should be studied properly for various features. It happens often, that salesmen try to exaggerate the qualities/features of their products. One should thus, be very careful and try to find out the facts. Water softener maintenance is also an important factor to be considered while purchasing a product. The water softener reviews provided above will be useful in choosing a suitable product for water softening.

Best Water Softener Systems

Alright, before we start off with reviewing the best water softener systems, let us know why is hard water so undesirable by most people. This kind of water has no health hazards, but contains different types of minerals, including calcium and magnesium. These minerals are responsible for making the water 'hard'. Hard water causes clogging of pipes and different types of appliances. Using hard water results in the development of a film on equipments like bathtubs, shower tiles, kettles, metal boilers, etc. And the most common problem is the reaction of these minerals with soaps and detergents which reduces their lather forming and cleaning capabilities. It is known that about 85% of the United States is affected with the problems of hard water and this makes it essential to have a thorough understanding about the best water softener systems available.

Types of Water Softeners

Knowing about the best water softeners system, is about knowing the different types of such machines available in the market. All of these types have been briefed in the following.

Salt Free Water Softener Systems
This type makes use of nanotechnology [The branch of engineering that deals with things smaller than 100 nanometers (especially with the manipulation of individual molecules)] to convert dissolved magnesium and calcium into microscopic crystals. Unlike the traditional systems, this one does not react with the water, thus, not affecting the minerals and nutrients. As the microscopic crystals do not stick to pipes or any other mediums, a substantial amount of savings can be done in the long run, as it prevents any damage to the water pipes. Read more on water softener problems.

Ion Exchange Water Softener Systems
Coming next in the list of the best water softener systems is what is known as the ion exchange system. Here, the technology is used to replace the minerals (especially calcium and magnesium ions) in the water which cause the hardness, with sodium and magnesium ions. People who have used this type of water softening system are with the reviews that their appliances like washing machines, etc, tend to have a longer life. Water which is softened by this softener tends to maintain the quality of clothes, thus, increasing their life span. One drawback which this water softener has, is related to its sodium infusion in the water. The sodium intake may not be safe for some people, especially those who have are sensitive to sodium. Know more on water softener maintenance.

Magnetic Water Softener Systems
This one makes no use of chemicals, thereby, preserving the vitamins and nutrients in the treated water. Here, magnets are placed inside or outside the water pipes. Doing this will make the water flow through a magnetic field. This process alters the molecular structure of the water, thereby, making it lose its hardness. This non-chemical treatment of hard water is considered to provide low maintenance experience post installation. The only downside about this system is that the degree of efficiency can be random or it may not be consistent. Here's more on electromagnetic water softener.

Reverse Osmosis Water Softener Systems
As the name suggests, this system works with the help of a semi-permeable membrane, which is known to remove 98% of unwanted molecules from the water. However, this process may leave the water with no essential minerals. This is the reason why, water softened by this system is appropriate for all purposes, except drinking, cooking or for feeding plants and animals.

Given below is a small list of some the best water softener systems you can avail from the market.
  • HardnessMaster
  • Culligan Water Softener
  • The Pelican PSE1800 Whole House Water Filter and Softener
  • Kinetico 2020
  • Futura-10 Salt Free Water Softener
  • Pro-Mrkt Corp, Soo-Soft digital water treatment system H1000
  • Tapworks AD11
So, this was a quick review on the different types of water softeners to help you invest on the best water softener systems. The names which have been mentioned above are among the top players in this business. So, when you go shopping, learn about their features and reconcile them with your requirements, in order to get the best buy!

Water Softener

Water softener, also referred to as water conditioner, is a device used to condition water that contains excessive minerals. It replaces the magnesium and calcium ions with sodium or potassium ions. Before we talk about water softener systems, their installation and working, we need to understand the difference between hard and soft water.

Water containing large amounts of minerals like calcium and magnesium is referred to as hard water. Hard water can cause mineral build up in pipes, water heaters, dishwashers and shower heads, thus reducing its flow. It causes a soapy scum on glasses and also reduces the soap's ability to lather, thus, giving the laundry a stiffer and duller appearance. Along with excess calcium and magnesium, hard water can also contain bicarbonates and sulfates.

Temporary hardness of water is due to large amounts of calcium and bicarbonate ions and can be removed by simply boiling the water. Permanent hardness is caused due to excess of calcium and magnesium sulphates or chlorides which cannot be eliminated by simple methods like boiling the water. Well, if you are facing these hard water problems, water softener installation is just the right thing to do! But how does a water softener work? Let us discuss the working of water softeners.

Working of Water Softener
A water softener works as an ion exchange device, replacing calcium and magnesium ions in the water with sodium or potassium ions. Sodium or potassium ions do not precipitate out in pipes and thus help in eliminating the hard water problems.

The water is allowed to pass through a bed of small plastic beads or zeolite, that is covered with sodium ions. As hard water flows past the sodium ions, they swap places with the magnesium and calcium ions and the water is softened. Over a period of time, all the sodium ions, on the zeolite bed, get depleted and the bed contains only calcium and magnesium ions. At this point, the process of water softening stops and the beads or zeolite needs to be regenerated. The beads need to regain the sodium or potassium ions and this is done by flooding them with salty, brine solution, which is rich in sodium ions. The calcium and magnesium ions, along with other dirt particles and sediments, get flushed from the beads by a process known as backwash.

This was about the working of a water softener. Water softener systems come in 4 different kinds - offsite, manual, semiautomatic and automatic. The water softener cost varies according to the type of the system. Automatic systems come with a few additional features such as the time clock, water meter and hardness sensor and is therefore, the most expensive of the lot.

Water Softener Maintenance
Water softener maintenance is a fairly simple task, provided you check the ion exchange system regularly. Depending on the type of water softener you have installed, check for the appropriate salts. Ensure that the salt level reaches one third of the brine tank. Check the salt level once a month. The most common water softener problems are associated with the control valve and the resin bed. You can either repair the valve or get it replaced. The resin bed needs to be inspected on a regular basis. Excess build up of minerals or other insoluble substances may result in poor quality water supply. It can also affect the longevity of the unit. You could refer to a water softener troubleshooting guide for a detailed information on water softener repair.

I hope you found this information on water softener systems useful. You could go through some water softener reviews, that will make your task of finding the best water softener system easier.

Water Softener Salt

As you might be aware, hard water refers to a type of water which comprises of highly dissolved mineral content. Calcium and magnesium are known to be the most common minerals found in hard water. Use of this kind of water, although not harmful for health, sure does a great deal of damage to home appliances like water heaters, dishwashers, tea kettles, and so on. The damage is caused due to the scaling on the inside of the appliances, which form when the water precipitates. One of the main disadvantage of using hard water is its inability to form lather. This makes washing clothes, or baths less productive. This water can be made soft with the help of reverse osmosis or distillation. It can also be done by using a water softener salt, about which a description has been provided below.

Water Softener Salt Types

Before I take you to the water softener types, I would tell you how does the water softener salt work to make the hard water soft. Basically, the salt works to get rid of the ions that make the water hard, which are in most cases, Ca2+ and Mg2+. Now, let us suppose the common salt sodium chloride (NaCl) is introduced in the hard water. The salt will break up into ions Na+ and Cl-. Now these ions would chemically bond with the ions already present in the water. This means Cl- would bond with Ca2+ forming CaCl2 and, also with Mg2+ and for MgCl2 thus, reducing the hardness of the water. What would be left in high quantity would be the Na+ ions thus, raising the sodium content in the water.

Now coming to the water softener salt types, they have been described below:

Rock Salt
This one is known to be the cheapest of all the water softener salts available. It is a naturally occurring mineral, that is normal obtained by mining methods. It is mostly sodium chloride, but also has relatively high composition of insoluble calcium sulphate as well. That is why the softener reservoir would be requiring frequent cleaning sessions.

Solar Salt
This product is obtained from the evaporation of sea water. It is better than the rock salt, as it has lesser insoluble composition. It is normally sold in pellet or crystal form, and contains about 85% sodium chloride. As the salt goes under processing, its price is quite higher than rock salt.

Evaporated Salt
By far, this is rated as the best water softener salt. It is found in underground salt deposits, but in dissolved form. So what is done is, the water is evaporated from the salt, leaving only sodium chloride. Since it is the most purest form of all, it is also the most expensive. As it is highly soluble, there would be less sediments thus, making way for less maintenance of the water reservoir.

Adding too much of salt or the wrong type of salt may result in forming what is known as a water softener salt bridge. Although it is not a serious issue, it might interfere with the working of the water softener. As far as the popular brand goes in this aspect, most people prefer the Morton water softener salt. But what must be known is, water softener salts take some time to dissolve and begin to soften the water. So, do not expect immediate results right after adding the salt to the hard water. Also, ensure that the salt level is half full in the reservoir. As the sodium level in the water would be high, it might not be suitable for babies, and for people who are recommended to follow a low-sodium diet. In such a case, water can be softened using a filter, but that has a price of its own, which is way higher than what is needed for water softener salts.
 

Saltless Water Softener

Water softener is a common home appliance that many of us have installed one in our homes. Till today, many regions get only hard water supply for daily use. A water sample is called hard, if it contains excess amount of mineral ions, namely, calcium and magnesium. Hard water not only form scales, but also interferes with washing, cleaning, bathing and daily chores by reducing lather formation. Thus, treating hard water with a saltless water softener or with other techniques is preferred to increase water quality.

Saltless Water Softener: Do they Work?

In a traditional water softener system, the hard water is passed through resin beads that contain sodium ions. The magnesium and calcium ions are replaced by sodium ions, and soft water is delivered via the outlet pipe. A major concern with this method of softening water is elevated amount of sodium in the softened water. While using it for drinking or cooking applications, the sodium content in the diet is increased, which is not recommended for people with certain medical conditions.

Considering the high sodium content in water resulted by regular water softener, many homeowners are now opting for the salt free water softener. In fact, the market is flooded with saltless water softener systems, each promising to give high-end results. But, does a saltless water softener really works? Simply called a descaler, this salt free water softener works by changing the structure of mineral crystals present in hard water. By doing so, it reduces the tendency of crystals to form scales.

The working mechanism of most saltless water softener systems is not to remove mineral or hardness ions directly. Instead, the electric charges generated in this system are effective for preventing quick formation of scales. Hence, build-up of the same in pipes, washing machine or dishwasher is reduced significantly. Nevertheless, scale deposits are observed in standing water, say hot water heater or other storage tanks. In short, the saltless water softener is less efficient for actual water softening.

Saltless Water Softener: Benefits

The major benefits of saltless water softener are attributed to the absence of sodium in the softened water. Contrary to regular water softening, it involves electromagnets (in electromagnetic water softener) or other salts (e.g. potassium chloride) for softening hard water. Thus, water after undergoing the treatment process is free of sodium and is considered safe for consumption, even for people who are on a sodium restriction diet. Needless to say, it increases the longevity of pipes and other plumbing components. Another advantage of using salt free water softener is reducing environmental pollution.

Saltless Water Softener: Reviews

Purchasing the best saltless water softener is easier said than done. Being a costly gadget, proceeding with the trial and error method is not practical. In order to make the best investment, do your home work properly, check water softener reviews and search for the brands that deliver good results, in terms of softening water, energy efficiency and durability. Do not forget to go through saltless water softener consumer reports, so that you can get an insight about the positive and negative sides of this water softening device.

When a comparison is made between saltless water softener and regular water softener, each of the system works in a different manner, and have their own pros and cons. So, deciding, which one is a better alternative depends upon your health objectives, water requirements and personal choices. A better solution is to replace resin beads of a regular water softener with potassium chloride. But, make sure that the machine configuration is safe for using other salts. Or check with a reliable company for any possible water softener problems that may arise with salt replacement.

Water Softener Salt Types

If you are being driven crazy by the deposits of salt in your beautiful black sink or if your clothes don't really get clean even in the washing machine, it's probably the water that is causing the problems. You may be getting hard water in your faucets, which is causing the ugly deposits of white on the dark sink. What is hard water and how to get rid of it? Well you can't really get rid of hard water. All you can do is convert it into soft water by using an effective water softener salt in a water softener system. You'll get to know which ones you can use, in the article below.

How a Water Softener Salt Works?

A water softener is a unit that is fixed in homes and industries with an intention of converting hard water into soft water. How does it do that? Let's understand. Hard water is basically water that has large deposits of magnesium and calcium in it. Both these are alkaline earth metals which cause the hardness in the water. What water softener salts do is, they react with the water to eradicate the positively charged calcium and magnesium ions. As a result, only the salt compounds remain in the water and it loses its hardness. These compounds are generally sodium or potassium compounds depending on the type of salt you use. Now that we know the procedure of water softening, let us see which are the different water softener salt types that can be used in the water softener system.

Types of Salt for Water Softeners

There are three basic types of salts that can be used in the water softener system. These salts react with the calcium and magnesium, and sometimes even iron in the water and flush them out at regular intervals. This keeps the water soft and soap and detergents can easily lather in it.

Evaporated Salt
Since salt is dissolved in water, it goes underground along with the water. When the underground water dries up, the salt remains behind. This salt, when dug out, by using specific mining techniques is called evaporated salt. This is because the water in the ground has evaporated away and left behind the salt. This type of salt has the maximum concentration of sodium chloride in it, which helps to soften the water the quickest.

Solar Salt
Salt is also collected on sea shores. What is done is, the sea water is trapped in a particular area of the shore during the day. When the water evaporates completely, all that is left behind in the salt pan, is the salt from the sea water. This salt is collected and sold in pellets or in a powdered form. Compared to evaporated salt, solar salt has a lower level of sodium chloride and slightly more insoluble substances in it. Hence, it can be said that it comes second in line to evaporated salt for softening water.

Rock Salt
Rock salt is the crudest form of salt that is available and hence the least favorable for water softening. It is acquired by a mining process. Since this salt is nothing but a mineral deposited directly into the ground, it becomes very difficult to separate the salt from the other substances present in the rock. As a result there are many foreign particles present along with the salt, making it difficult to dissolve in the water. And unless it dissolves in water, it cannot react with it to soften it. Hence this is the least favored water softener salt.

Remember, these are the three basic water softener salt types. You can combine evaporated salt and solar salt sometimes, depending on the level of hardness of the water. However, avoid combining rock salt with any salt, as prolonged deposit of unwanted insoluble materials may damage your water softening system.

Tuesday 25 January 2011

More "Friends, Friends, and More Friends!"

"Friendship is the allay of our sorrows, the ease of our passions, the discharge of our oppression, the sanctuary of our calamities, the counselor of our doubts, the clarity of our minds, the emission of our thoughts, the exercise and improvement of what we dedicate." --Jeremy Taylor

Friendship is such an important facet to life. Nobody would want to live a life of total solitude, because everyone needs at least one person to at least talk to now and then. Even in the famous Tom Hanks movie, "Castaway," he painted a face on a soccer ball and called him Wilson, just so he would have someone to talk to. This wasn't meant to be comical, it was meant to show that people need to have interaction with others. This is how the character in the movie helped to keep his sanity.

"The worst solitude is to be destitute of sincere friendship." --Francis Bacon

"Of all the things which wisdom provides to make life entirely happy, much the greatest is the possession of friendship." -- Epicurus

If you have even one or two friends...then that is a lot to be thankful for...money problems, medical problems, and other annoyances in life will "come and go." At least you have your friends, and that's a great thing!

"One loyal friend is worth ten thousand relatives." -- Euripides

Friends, Friends, and More Friends!

"Stay" is a charming word in a friend's vocabulary. - Louisa May Alcott

Everyone seems to have some friends, even if it is just one decent friend. Even homeless people whom I have met and had intellectually stimulating conversations with...they seem to be friends with a few other homeless people.

By the way...here's a way to feel good and get a "blessing"...the next time you see a homeless person, go into the nearest restaurant or grocery store, and buy them some ready-to-eat food. Don't forget the napkins, plastic fork and spoon, et cetera. Then just walk up to them and hand it to them, and wish them a happy day. As you walk away, and hear their platitudes and words of praise, you will feel so good that it will amaze you.

"Wear a smile and have friends; wear a scowl and have wrinkles." - George Eliot (Pen name of Mary Ann Evans)

"The only way to have a friend is to be one." - Ralph Waldo Emerson

"Good friendships are fragile things and require as much care as any other fragile and precious thing." - Randolph Bourne

"Friendship is the only cement that will ever hold the world together." - Woodrow Wilson

"Brotherhood is the very price and condition of man's survival." - Carlos P. Romulo

"There is no hope or joy except in human relations." - Antoine de Saint-Exupery

So, after reading those, you should be inspired...get out there and cultivate some new friendships, and be sure to tend to the ones you are already in...making them better and stronger.

Friendship Quotes Make Friendship Better

Learning is the eye of mind. We should always keep on learning. No one is perfect. There are lots of inspirational quotes to guide us our relationships. Friendship is the most common and best relation in our lives. So we can learn lots of things from friendship quotes. These quotes are the form of a sentence and elaborate the power of friendship. It is the nature of human being that believe only the things which happen in front of him/her. So when you want to know your real well wishers than your troubles going help you in that. At that time your real friends and relatives stand with you. So i can say that friends are not made for just entertainment and fun but they are there for you to inspire you, care for you and support you. All these features can be better understand by reading friendship quotes. Love is really sweet but friendship is sweeter than love. Friendship is with us always and prevents us from all troubles.

It is not wise decision to forget your true friends when you fall in love.. Even your love is not going to be with you in all ups and downs. but your real friends are always b with you. I would like tell you the plus points of friendship comparing to the relation of love.
# You dare to be yourself in front of friends and can share anything but you have to show your fake self to your love,
# Friends are always there to stand with you. You can call anytime to your friends, but your lover may have family problems.
# If you stuck up in any problem, your friends immediately come without any fear but your love may have some excuse.
# Your lover may not be with lifetime but friends always stay with you and come when you remember them
# It is your friends who console you when your lovers hurt you.
# You have to show your standards in front of your lover but friendship do not need any formalities.

Friends are the life blood of our life and you should never hurt your them. You can find the ways to do best for them when you start reading friendship quotes. Companionship is really holy kind of relation and we should never argue with our friends. Only our true friends can understand us when we suffer terrible anguish and they do everything to get you out of it.

We as a human, needs continues inspiration and motivation. It is our nature of forgetting the things. So we should keep on refreshing our knowledge with the aid of friendship quotes. They help us to be a good human being and nice friend. Always try to support your friends because no relation can survive where there is no care. If your friend does good for you, you should also try to deliver the best. You should not fail to know his/her expectations.
So enjoy the life and compliment your friends with friendship quotes.

Funny Friendship Quotes

True friends are really hard to find. A good friend is one who will stick by you in your troubled times and forgive you even before you say sorry. Today, with the mushrooming of social networking sites, making new friends is not a difficult task anymore. But take a moment to think how many of these friends are actually true to you in every sense. True friends are the best gift you can give yourself. Friendships may see the ups and downs as well. Often there are funny situations that may cause you to think about the true meaning of friendship! Here are a few funny friendship quotes which you can share with your closest buddy and have a good laugh over a cup of tea! Let’s take a look at the funny side of friendship with these funny friendship quotes.

Funny Friendship Quotes:

"A true friend stabs you in the front."- Oscar Wilde

"A friend to all is a friend to none."- Aristotle

"Business, you know, may bring money, but friendship hardly ever does."- Jane Austen

"Friends are relatives you make for yourself." - Eustache Deschamps

"Friends may come and go, but enemies accumulate." - Thomas Jones"

"The best time to make friends is before you need them." - Ether Barrymore

"Friendship is like money, easier made than kept." - Samuel Butler

"Friends: people who borrow my books and set wet glasses on them." - Edwin Arlington Robinson

"We English are good at forgiving our enemies; it releases us from the obligation of liking our friends." - P.D. James

"A friend is one who knows us, but loves us anyway." - Fr. Jerome Cummings

"Love is blind; friendship closes its eyes." – Anonymous

"Marriage is a sort of friendship recognized by the police." – Anonymous

"Men kick friendship around like a football, but it doesn't seem to crack. Women treat it like glass and it goes to pieces." - Anne Morrow Lindbergh

"One good reason to only maintain a small circle of friends is that three out of four murders are committed by people who know the victim." - George Carlin

"Friendship. A ship big enough to carry two in fair weather, but only one in foul." -Ambrose Bierce

"An old friend will help you move. A good friend will help you move a dead body." - Jim Hayes

"A true friend is someone who thinks that you are a good egg even though he knows that you are slightly cracked." - Bernard Meltzer

"Give me one friend, just one, who meets the needs of all my varying moods." - Esther M. Clark

"Love is blind. Friendship tries not to notice." - Anonymous

"I got a lot of best friends. Some o' them I don't even hardly know!" - Archie Bunker

"It takes a long time to grow an old friend." - John Leonard

"Only your real friends will tell you when your face is dirty." – Silican proverb.

"Friends are God's ways of apologizing for our families." - Anonymous

"Tis the privilege of friendship to talk nonsense, and have her nonsense respected." - Charles Lamb

"Friendship is born at that moment when one person says to another, 'What! You too? I thought I was the only one." - C.S. Lewis

"Show me a genuine case of platonic friendship, and I shall show you two old or homely faces."- Austin O'Malley

"Friendship is a pretty full-time occupation if you really are friendly with somebody. You can't have too many friends because then you're just not really friends." - Truman Capote

"A true friend is one who overlooks your failures and tolerates your success!" - Doug Larson

I am hoping these funny quotes about friendship help you have a good laugh. 3 Cheers to an everlasting friendship!

Friendship Quotes, Friendship and Lovers

Friendship is very sweet relationship. There are lots of friendship quotes to inspire us and elaborate us the power of friendship. We do not trust any thing until we experience it. And it is rightly been said that you can know your well wishers only at the time of trouble. At that time only our true relations survive. These people are known as our best friend. Friendship is not only about enjoying, celebrating and laughing with friends but it is all about understanding, caring and supporting each other. Friendship quotes explore all these characteristics of true friends.

Love is life but friendship makes the life sweet. It works like a safeguard which prevents us from all mishaps. But often we fall in love and forget our true friends. Love is not going to help you in all circumstances. Friends are always there with you.

I would like to share the advantages of friendship and limitations of love.

- You can share each and everything with your friends but you can not do the same thing with your lover, as he/she may take it personally. And you may have fear to your image.

- Friends always support you, but lovers may have family boundaries.

- You can meet anytime with your friends without any fear but your lover may not be with you at the time of difficulties.

- Your lover may dump you or his/her family may not allow you to live together but friends do have these problems.

- Your friends console you when your lovers go far away from you.

- You have to maintain your standards in front of your lover but friends know you, so you need not to do any formalities. You can present your real self in front of them.

So never hurt your friends. Your friendship skills increase when you start reading friendship quotes. Friendship is holy kind of relation so never argue with your friends. Only your true friends can understand you when you suffer and they do everything to bring you out of it.

We, as a human being, always need inspiration and motivation. We have the habit of forgetting things. So you should keep on refreshing your mind with the help of friendship quotes. These quotations help us to be a good person and very good friend. Always ready to support your friends because one sided relationship can not survive for long time. If your friends do best for you, you should also try to deliver your best. Failure of anyone can spoil the relation. So be a true with your friends and spread the happiness all over.

Best Friend Sayings

Silences make the real conversations between friends. Not the saying but the never needing to say is what counts.~ Margaret Lee Runbeck

Everyone has at least one best friend whom they can count on for almost any and everything. A best friend is the one who knows exactly what you mean, someone who knows you better than yourself, and is with you no matter what. A best friend is always a great company in both good times and bad. A best friend is an honest critic and your biggest supporter. A best friend is not just a shoulder to cry on, but also a source of joy, which drives away the tears and puts the smile back on your face. Here are some cute best friend sayings, funny best friend sayings and quotes that will remind you immediately of your best friend.

Cute Best Friend Sayings
  • A best friend is like a four leaf clover, hard to find and lucky to have...

  • If you're alone, I'll be your shadow. If you want to cry, I'll be your shoulder. If you want a hug, I'll be your pillow. If you need to be happy, I'll be your smile. But anytime you need a friend, I'll just be me. ~Author Unknown

  • The best kind of friend is the one you could sit on a porch with, never saying a word, and walk away feeling like that was the best conversation you've had. ~Author Unknown

  • If my best friend jumped off a bridge... I would not …I would be at the bottom waiting to catch him.

  • Everyone has a best friend during each stage of life only a precious few have the same one.

  • Friends are kisses blown to us by angels. ~ Author Unknown

  • A friend knows the song in my heart and sings it to me when my memory fails. ~Donna Roberts

  • I always felt that the great high privilege, relief and comfort of friendship was that one had to explain nothing.~ Katherine Mansfield

  • Lots of people want to ride with you in the limo, but what you want is someone who will take the bus with you when the limo breaks down. ~Oprah Winfrey

  • Friendship isn't a big thing - it's a million little things.~ Unknown

  • It is one of the blessings of old friends that you can afford to be stupid with them. ~Ralph Waldo Emerson

  • A true friend reaches for your hand and touches your heart. ~Author Unknown

  • A true friend unbosoms freely, advises justly, assists readily, adventures boldly, takes all patiently, defends courageously, and continues a friend unchangeably. ~William Penn

  • While everybody else shakes my hand, you hold it. ~ Nick Zeigler
Funny Best Friend Sayings
  • A good friend will bail you out of jail, but a true friend will be sitting beside you say " Damn that was fun!"

  • Friendship is born at that moment when one person says to another, 'What! You too? I thought I was the only one." ~ C.S. Lewis

  • Love is blind. Friendship tries not to notice. ~ Anonymous

  • A good friend can tell you what is the matter with you in a minute. He may not seem such a good friend after telling. ~ Arthur Brisbane

  • I got a lotta best friends. Some o' them I don't even hardly know! ~ Archie Bunker

  • We must hang together, or surely we shall hang separately. ~ Benjamin Franklin

  • An old friend will help you move. A good friend will help you move a dead body. ~ Jim Hayes

  • Friends are God's ways of apologizing for our families. ~ Anonymous

  • I can trust my friends. These people force me to examine, encourage me to grow. ~ Cher

  • A true friend never gets in your way unless you happen to be going down.
Best friends are a source of constant support in our lives. Be it sharing secrets, exchanging advice, planning the future or just killing time doing nothing- every moment spent with your best friend is a memory to be cherished forever. It always feels great to have your best friend around since a best friend makes life worthwhile just by being a part of it. So cherish your best friends and let them know how special they are…

Broken Friendship Quotes

It was almost a year since Sally and Meg spoke to each other and today they accidentally ran into each other at a shopping mall. Wondering whether they should talk to each other, they cast awkward glances at each other as they browsed through the mall. It is funny how two friends who were once inseparable were complete strangers now…

Friendship is perhaps one of the most beautiful relationships that two people can share. Friendship is about sharing each other’s opinions, dreams, fears, aspirations and hopes. Friendship is about engaging conversations, which go on and on as friends lose track of time. Friendship is about cherishing old memories of togetherness and creating new ones everyday. Although when you watch friends hanging out and having a great time it seems as if these people just belong together, friendship does require a sound mutual understanding with lots and lots of love and care for each other.

Often when you see people who were once inseparable and have later moved on to part ways, you think what could’ve gone so terribly wrong between them that they can’t even stand each other? Can a friendship that starts with ‘ no sorry no thank you’ and reaches the ‘friends forever’ stage end on a bitter note? The reasons for a broken friendship might be many, but most often when people look back at their broken friendships, they regret it. If you have ever lost a friend due to a petty fight or any other differences, then jus read through these broken friendship quotes. You might want to give your friendship another shot…
  • Moving on is simple, what you leave behind that makes it difficult.

  • A simple friend thinks the friendship over when you have an argument. A real friend knows that it's not a friendship until after you've had a fight.

  • A true friend is someone who sees the pain in your eyes while everyone else believes the smile on your face.

  • You meet people who forget you. You forget people you meet. But sometimes you meet those people you can't forget. Those are your friends

  • If you're alone, I'll be your shadow. If you want to cry, I'll be your shoulder. If you want a hug, I'll be your pillow. If you need to be happy, I'll be your smile... But anytime you need a friend, I'll just be me.

  • We always thought we'd look back on our tears and laugh, but we never thought we'd look back on our laughter and cry.

  • A simple friend thinks the friendship over when you have an argument. A real friend knows that it's not a friendship until after you've had a fight

  • A friend is someone who knows the song in your heart and can sing it back to you when you have forgotten the words.

  • Never explain yourself. Your friends don't need it and your enemies won't believe it. ~ Belgicia Howell

  • Friendship must never be buried under the weight of misunderstanding.~ Sri Chinmoy

  • Since there is nothing so well worth having as friends, never lose a chance to make them."

  • Truly great friends are hard to find, difficult to leave, and impossible to forget. ~ G. Randolf

  • My father always used to say that when you die, if you've got five real friends, then you've had a great life. ~ Lee Iacocca

  • Friendship isn't about whom you have known the longest... It's about who came, and never left your side.

  • There is nothing more dreadful than the habit of doubt. Doubt separates people. It is a poison that disintegrates friendships and breaks up pleasant relations. It is a thorn that irritates and hurts; it is a sword that kills. ~ Lord Buddha

  • It is strange how often a heart must be broken before the years can make it wise.

  • The worst solitude is to be destitute of sincere friendship. ~ Sir Francis Bacon

  • We all lose friends.. we lose them in death, to distance and over time. But even though they may be lost, hope is not. The key is to keep them in your heart, and when the time is right, you can pick up the friendship right where you left off. Even the lost find their way home when you leave the light on." ~ Amy Marie Walz
So if you have a friend with whom you’ve fought for some reason or have simply lost touch due to your busy schedules, then its time to give them a call or meet up. Life is too short to hold grudges and harbor bitterness, cherish the people who have been with you and are always with you …Friends are always friends no matter what, every friendship goes through its good and bad phases, but remember that you can make a difference by taking the first step and bridging the gap…What are you waiting for?

Quotes About Friendship and Memories

Some of the fondest memories we gather in the journey of life are the ones that remind us of our beloved friends. Moments of endless laughter, longest chats and beautiful times shared with friends are simply priceless. So often when I read a beautiful poem or a quote about friendship I am instantly drawn into my world of beautiful memories about the times I spent with my friends. The very essence of life is to continue to make such beautiful memories, that one can look back upon and smile about. Here are some quotes about friendship and memories for you.
  • Memory is a way of holding on to the things you love, the things you are, the things you never want to lose. ~ Kevin Arnold

  • The essence of childhood, of course, is play, which my friends and I did endlessly on streets that we reluctantly shared with traffic. ~ Bill Cosby

  • Truly great friends are hard to find, difficult to leave, and impossible to forget.

  • The heart that truly loves never forgets.

  • A moment lasts all of a second, but the memory lives on forever.

  • Someday many years from now

    We'll sit beside the candles glow

    Exchanging tales about our past

    And laughing as the memories flow

    And when that distant day arrives

    I know it will be understood

    That friendship is the key to live

    And we were friends and it was good. ~ Eileen Hehl

  • We are friends and I do like to pass the day with you in serious and inconsequential chatter. I wouldn't mind washing up beside you, dusting beside you, reading the back half of the paper while you read the front. We are friends and I would miss you, do miss you and think of you very often. ~ Jeanette Winterson

  • Sometimes you put walls up not to keep people out, but to see who cares enough to break them down.

  • Even though we've changed and we're all finding our own place in the world, we all know that when the tears fall or the smile spreads across our face, we'll come to each other because no matter where this crazy world takes us, nothing will ever change so much to the point where we're not all still friends.

  • When two friends understand each other totally, the words are soft and strong like an orchid's perfume.

  • I haven't seen you in a while, yet I often imagine all your expressions. I haven't spoken to you recently, but many times I hear your thoughts. Good friends must not always be together. It is the feeling of oneness, when distant that proves a lasting.

  • The most beautiful discovery true friends make is that they can grow separately without growing apart. ~ Elisabeth Foley

Funny Best Friend Quotes

"Yesterday brought the beginning, tomorrow brings the end, and somewhere in the middle we became the best of friends." A fine quote of an unknown author defines the actual process of friendship. A best friend is the one who stands out for you when you don't have courage to even look at your own self. He is your biggest critic and the strongest admirer but will always admire you behind your back! At least this is what my best friend does! But seriously, a best friend can bring out any possible solution to your most stupid question and will always make you feel secure. Wonder why am I getting so philosophical? The sole reason is the subject itself, the best friend! There are many quotes and best friend sayings, all trying to describe the actual place of a best friend in a person's life. Without getting much 'serious', let's concentrate on the lighter side of life, by reading some funny best friend quotes, shall we?

Funny Best Friend Quotes
Here are some funny best friend quotes:

"A true friend is one who thinks you are a good egg even if you are half cracked." - Bernard Meltzer

"Love is blind. Friendship tries not to notice." - Unknown

"You can always tell a real friend: when you’ve made a fool of yourself he doesn’t feel you’ve done a permanent job." - Laurence J. Peter

"The statistics on sanity are that one out of every four Americans is suffering from some form of mental illness. Think of your three best friends. If they’re okay, then it’s you." - Rita Mae Brown

"Friends are the bacon bits in the salad bowl of life" - Unknown

"I got a lotta best friends. Some o' them I don't even hardly know!" - Archie Bunker

"Tis the privilege of friendship to talk nonsense, and have her nonsense respected." - Charles Lamb

"Friendship is born at that moment when one person says to another, 'What! You too? I thought I was the only one." - C.S. Lewis

"Friendship is unnecessary, like philosophy, like art…it has no survival value. Rather, it is one of those things that gives value to survival." - C.S. Lewis

"A good friend will bail you out of jail, but a true friend will be sitting beside you say " Damn that was fun!"

"We must hang together, or surely we shall hang separately." - Benjamin Franklin

"A true friend never gets in your way unless you happen to be going down."

"Advice from your friends is like the weather, some of it is good; some of it is bad." - A proverb

"A real friend will clean up the messes you make out of life for you. Even if they shouldn’t have to." - Unknown

"We’re always together, we’re one of a kind, 3 words describe us - 'partners in crime'" - Unknown

Best Friend Sayings

"Lots of people want to ride with you in the limo, but what you want is someone who will take the bus with you when the limo breaks down." - Oprah Winfrey

"The most beautiful discovery true friends make is that they can grow separately without growing apart." - Elisabeth Foley

"What sweetness is left in life, if you take away friendship? Robbing life of friendship is like robbing the world of the sun. A true friend is more to be esteemed than kinsfolk." - Marcus Tullius Cicero

"A simple friend thinks the friendship over when you have an argument. A real friend knows that it's not a friendship until after you've had a fight." - Unknown

"Never explain yourself. Your friends don't need it and your enemies won't believe it." - Belgicia Howell

"When we honestly ask ourselves which person in our lives mean the most to us, we often find that it is those who, instead of giving advice, solutions, or cures, have chosen rather to share our pain and touch our wounds with a warm and tender hand. The friend who can be silent with us in a moment of despair or confusion, who can stay with us in an hour of grief and bereavement, who can tolerate not knowing, not curing, not healing and face with us the reality of our powerlessness, that is a friend who cares." - Henri Nouwen

The above lines explain the need as well as the place of a best friend in every person's life. There are many quotes about friendship and memories that are very close to our heart. Mentioned above were some of the beautiful as well as funny best friend quotes. Hope you enjoyed reading them!

Cute Friendship Quotes and Messages

True friends help to add the right flavor to life. When you are blessed with true friends you can always count on, you can bravely face any storm and tackle obstacles with a smile. Friends are there to remind you that life is about taking things with a pinch of salt! Long talks over the phone with your best buddy or gossiping over a cup of coffee, these are a few things I would not trade for anything in this world! The first Sunday of the month of August marks the celebration of Friendship Day. On this day, friends pamper each other with cards, friendship bands, and gifts while hanging out at the local coffee shop! The brave at heart even approach strangers with friendship bands in pursuit of friendship! Well, if you are looking to send that perfect message across to your beloved friend, then do take a look at some exclusive and cute friendship quotes and messages compiled below. Well, beautiful and meaningful words only help to strengthen this wonderful bond of friendship. Take a look.

Cute Friendship Quotes

A real friend is one who walks in when the rest of the world walks out. – Unknown

Many people will walk in and out of your life, but only true friends will leave footprints in your heart. – Unknown

A friend who is far away is sometimes much nearer than one who is at hand. Is not the mountain far more awe-inspiring and more clearly visible to one passing through the valley than to those who inhabit the mountain? - Khalil Gibran

A true friend is someone who is there for you when they would rather be someplace else. - Len Wein

The only rose without a thorn is friendship. – Unknown

If you have one true friend, you have more than your share. - Thomas Fuller

Cute Friendship Messages

Last night I sent an angel to watch over you while you were sleeping but it came back early! So I asked it why? It said that angels don't watch over other angels!

One day Friendship and Love met one another. Love asked Friendship – "Why do You exist if I'm there?" So Friendship said – "To give a Smile to those eyes in which you leave Tears."

Friends are like stars,
they come and they go.
But the ones that stay,
are the ones that glow!

Side by side or miles apart, dear friends are always close to the heart.

A friend is someone who knows the song in your heart and can sing it back to you when you have forgotten the words.

A friend is sweet when it’s new but it is sweeter when it’s true! But you know what? It’s sweetest when it’s you.

If I could pull down the rainbow I would write your name with it and put it back in the sky to let everybody know how colorful my life is with a friend like you!

I asked God for a flower, He gave me a garden. Asked for a tree, he gave me a forest. Asked for a river, He gave me an ocean. I asked for a friend, He gave me you.

Sad Friendship Quotes

A friend is the biggest asset of a person that provide him strength and support in the path of life. Friendship provides hope and strength to many people in their daily struggle of life. Friendship is happiness and friendship is fun that comes along with the honest criticism that makes a person always grounded and connected with others. Breaking a friendship is the greatest of loss that a person has to go through. For those who have to face this situation in their lives, there are some famous sad quotes that speak of the pain that these people go through. With due respect to all those hearts that have been bruised by a broken or lost friendship, here are some sad friendship quotes.

Sad Friendship Quotes
Here are a few sad friendship quotes...

"I think I've already lost you, I think you've already lost. I think I'm finally scared now, you think I'm weak... I think you're wrong!" - Anonymous

"Friendship is but a name; fidelity but an empty name." - Ovid

"The courts of kings are full of men, empty of friends." - Seneca

"While fortune lasts you will see your friend's face." - Petronius

"Be, as many now are, rich to yourself, poor to your friends." - Juvenal

"These days flattery wins friends, truth begets hatred." - Terence

"Let our friends perish, provided our enemies fall along with them." - a Greek proverb

"I myself am the only friend I have." - Terence

"Writer or painter god-parents are notoriously unreliable. That is, there is certain before long to be a cooling of friendship." - Gertrude Stein

"Being over seventy is like being engaged in a war. All our friends are going or gone and we survive amongst the dead and the dying as on a battlefield." - Muriel Spark

"The death of a dear friend, wife, brother, lover, which seemed nothing but privation, somewhat later assumes the aspect of a guide or genius; for it commonly operates revolutions in our way of life, terminates an epoch of infancy or of youth which was waiting to be closed, breaks up a wonted occupation, or a household, or style of living, and allows for the formation of new ones more friendly to the growth of character." - Ralph Waldo Emerson.

Friendship Quotes
Here are some more sad friendship quotes...

"The saddest thing in the world, is loving someone who used to love you." - Anonymous

"We enjoy warmth because we have been cold. We appreciate light because we have been in darkness. By the same token, we can experience joy because we have known sadness." - David Weatherford

"They that sow in tears shall reap in joy." - Psalms, Bible

"I'm not even going to get mad anymore. I'm just going to learn to expect the lowest out of the people I thought the highest of ." - Anonymous

"discovered who were my real friends. I just wished that wasn't the way I had to discover." - Anonymous

"Real loss only occurs when you lose something that you love more than yourself." - Anonymous

"Whoever says Friendship is easy has obviously never had a true friend!" - Bronwyn Polson

"Ever has it been that love knows not its own depth until the hour of separation." - Kahlil Gibran

"Not all scars show, not all wounds heal. Sometimes you can't always see the pain someone feels." - Anonymous

"My best friend... I feel like I've lost him forever, and he was like my touchstone." - Reality Bites

"The bitterest tears shed over graves are for words left unsaid and deeds left undone." - Anonymous

These were a few of the sad friendship quotes that I came across. Quotes about friendship and memories are too many, I know these quotes and best friendship sayings never heal any pain, but they certainly help us to express the agony that we go through when we lose a friend. Let me know some of the sad friendship quotes that you know!

Cute Best Friend Quotes

Friends are forever. The best times of your life is spent with friends and most notorious memories are also etched with friends. They help you climb through the toughest times and double your joys by being a part of it. They know exactly what to do and what to say to cheer you up. Friends are the life line, who are by your side through every thick and thin. Read on best friend sayings.

A best friend is someone, who hears you out no matter what, who sticks through with you at the most challenging time of your life, who guides you and picks you up if you stumble or fall. To show your best friend exactly what he/she means to you, here are cute best friend quotes, so that you can put them on cards or leave them on small gifts. Read on to know more about friendship - meaning of friendship.

Cute Best Friend Quotes

If all my friends were to jump off a bridge, I wouldn't jump with them, I would be at the bottom to catch them. ~ Anon

If you have one true friend, you have more than your share. ~ Thomas Fuller

Promise you won't forget me, because if I thought you would, I'd never leave. ~ Winnie the Pooh

A true friend is someone who knows there's something wrong even when you have the biggest smile on your face. ~ Anonymous

I keep my friends as misers do their treasure, because, of all the things granted us by wisdom, none is greater or better than friendship. ~ Pietro Aretino

The rain may be falling hard outside, But your smile makes it all alright. I'm so glad that you're my friend. I know our friendship will never end. ~ Robert Alan
 
Cute Best Friend Quotes and Sayings

You are one of the best things that's ever happened to me. You're my love and my best friend. And every day that goes by, it seems like I discover something new about you to love. It's incredible to me how one person can make such a big difference in my life. You touch my heart in a way I never knew before. I discover something new about you to love. It's incredible to me how one person can make such a big difference in my life.

Many people will walk in and out of your life, but only true friends will leave footprints in your heart. ~ Elenor Roosevelt

Don't walk in front of me, I may not follow; don't walk behind me, I may not lead; walk beside me, and just be my friend. ~ Albert Camus

Friends listen to what you say. Best friends listen to what you don't say. ~ Charllotte Donnelly

My best friend may not be as popular as Osama or Obama but he or she sure is the most popular person in my life. ~ Savio Dsilva

Best Friends are the ones who are there to wipe the tears and hold your hand while everyone else just stands around asking what happened? ~ Anonymous

We are all travelers in the wilderness of this world, and the best we can find in our travels is an honest friend. ~ Robert Louis Stevenson

A best friend is some who stands by you, cares for you and understands you, when no one else does. These friendship quotes, are a way of telling your friend that you are lucky to have such a person in your life. Leave these cute best friend quotes, on cards or text them to your friend, to tell him/her that how much you value them, because friends are forever!

Short Friendship Quotes

Friends are a family that you choose. They are the ones, who stand by you in tough times, in times of happiness, in your absolute lonely times and especially, when you are down. Friends pick you up, when you fall and help you get back on your feet. No wonder, they say, friends are forever! Short friends quotes and sayings are a way of expressing gratitude to your friends. Text these short friendship quotes, to your closest friends, to let them know, what they mean to you.

Short Friendship Quotes and Sayings

Friendship is unnecessary, like philosophy, like art. It has no survival value; rather it is one of those things that give value to survival. ~ C S Lewis

Ah, how good it feels! The hand of an old friend. ~ Henry Wadsworth Longfellow

Never do a wrong thing to make a friend or to keep one. ~ Robert E. Lee

My best friend is the one who brings out the best in me. ~ Henry Ford

The best time to make friends is before you need them. ~ Ether Barrymore

The road to a friend’s house is never too long. ~ Danish Proverb

That is what friendship means. Sharing the prejudice of experience. ~ Charles Bukowski

A single rose can be my garden... a single friend, my world. ~ Leo Buscaglia

Give me one friend, just one, who meets the needs of all my varying moods. ~ Esther M. Clark

Friendship is a sheltering tree. ~ Samuel Taylor Coleridge

Cute Short Friendship Quotes

There are not many things in life so beautiful as true friendship, and not many things more uncommon.

True friendship comes when the silence between two people is comfortable. David Tyson Gentry

What is a friend? A single soul dwelling in two bodies. ~ Aristotle

The best way to destroy an enemy is to make him a friend. ~ Abraham Lincoln

Some people come into our lives and quickly go. Some stay for awhile and leave footprints on our hearts. And we are never, ever the same. ~ Anonymous

Friends are like melons; shall I tell you why? To find one good you must one hundred try. ~ Claude Mermet

A friend is one of the nicest things you can have, and one of the best things you can be. ~Douglas Pagels

A real friend is one who walks in when the rest of the world walks out. ~Anon

I keep my friends as misers do their treasure, because, of all the things granted us by wisdom, none is greater or better than friendship. ~ Pietro Aretino

Friendship doubles our joy and divides our grief. ~ Swedish Proverb
Funny Short Friendship Quotes

Friendship is like money, easier made than kept. ~ Samuel Butler

Money can't buy friends, but you can get a better class of enemy. ~ Spike Milligan

A true friend stabs you in the front. ~ Oscar Wilde

A friend to all is a friend to none. ~ Aristotle

An old friend will help you move. A good friend will help you move a dead body. ~ Jim Hayes

Friends are God's ways of apologizing for our families. ~ Anonymous

I think we dream so we don't have to be apart so long. If we're in each other's dreams, we can be together all the time. ~ Calvin & Hobbes

I’m yet another resource-consuming kid in and overpopulated planet, raised to an alarming extent by Madison Avenue and Hollywood, poised with my cynical and alienated peers to take over the world when you’re old and weak. ~ Calvin & Hobbes

Friendship is born at that moment when one person says to another, 'What! You too? I thought I was the only one. ~ C S Lewis

Love is blind. Friendship tries not to notice. ~ Anonymous

These were short cute quotes, describing friendship in their immortal words. To me a friend is the one who shares, cares, loves you (endlessly), knows you inside out, helps you find the way, walks with you and simply, is there for you. After all, friendship is forever!