What Are the Potential Problems with Using a Calcite Only Acid Neutralizer?

Yesterday, we talked a little bit about neutralizing water without a calcite neutralizer.

However, for best results, we recommend using a standalone calcite neutralizer tank. Today, one customer wrote to us to ask about the potential drawbacks of using a calcite neutralizer, and we wanted to share our answer with readers who might be considering such a system for use in their homes.

Potential Drawbacks of a Calcite Acid Neutralizer

The primary drawback to using a calcite acid neutralizer is the increase in water hardness that often results from the dissolution of calcite into the water. This is because the neutralizing filter, which uses calcite media, can correct water acidity but also contribute to increased water hardness.

Calcite is calcium carbonate that neutralizes acidity by slowly dissolving calcium into water. Calcite’s calcium carbonate neutralizes acidity effectively, but it may require periodic backwashing to maintain optimal performance. Calcium, along with magnesium, is the primary cause of hardness in water, and over time, it will contribute to scale formation and clogged plumbing and fixtures.

Is the Added Hardness from a Calcite Neutralizer a Problem?

Fortunately, the increase in water hardness from a neutralizer is generally negligible if the water isn’t too hard to begin with: around 170 mg/L (10 grains per gallon) is the range where one might consider using a softener.

Even in this range, you might decide that your water is fine for your needs, but if you decide after some time using the neutralizer that your water seems too hard, you can always add a water softener.

Managing Water Quality After Installing a Calcite Acid Neutralizer

For more precise management of your water supply, use the Langelier Index to determine the scaling and corrosion potential of your water based on its hardness, alkalinity, and TDS concentration.

Water operators use the Langelier Index to optimize water supply systems and identify potential leakages; you can use our simple Langelier Index calculator to manage your water supply system at home.

Choosing the Right Calcite Acid Neutralizer System

For those considering a calcite acid neutralizer, we recommend our CWS neutralizer system.  It features a fully adjustable backwash cycle, a user-friendly LCD display, and a rugged control valve designed to last for years with little maintenance.

And if you think you’ll want a softener to remove the hardness added by the neutralizer, consider our CWS softener systems.  These systems are also fully adjustable, built to last, and very reliable due to their electronic sensors.

Introduction

Acidic water can be a significant problem for households and businesses, causing corrosion damage to pipes, fittings, and appliances. One effective solution for neutralizing acidic water is the use of calcite media. Calcite is a naturally occurring mineral rock that consists of approximately 95% calcium carbonate and 3% magnesium carbonate. It is commonly used in acid neutralizer systems to raise the pH of acidic water to a non-corrosive equilibrium. By using calcite media, you can protect your plumbing and appliances from the damaging effects of acidic water, ensuring a longer lifespan and better performance.

How Calcite Works

Calcite works by slowly dissolving in acidic water, releasing calcium and magnesium ions that neutralize the acidity. The calcium carbonate in calcite reacts with the acidic water to form bicarbonate ions, which increase the pH of the water. This process is self-limiting, meaning that the calcite will only dissolve until the water reaches a non-corrosive equilibrium. Typically, calcite is used in a backwashing filter, where the acidic water flows through a bed of calcite media. As the water passes through, the calcium carbonate dissolves, effectively neutralizing the acidity and raising the pH to safer levels.

Limitations of Calcite Media

While calcite media is an effective solution for neutralizing acidic water, it does have some limitations. Calcite is not suitable for extremely acidic water, as it may not be able to raise the pH to a non-corrosive equilibrium. Additionally, calcite can increase the water hardness, which may require the use of a water softener to manage the added hardness. Regular maintenance is also necessary, as the calcite media will need to be replenished as it is used up. Furthermore, calcite may not be effective in water with high levels of iron or manganese, as these minerals can interfere with the neutralization process, reducing the efficiency of the system.

Comparison with Other Neutralizer Media

Calcite media is not the only option for neutralizing acidic water. Other neutralizer media, such as magnesium oxide and soda ash, may be more effective in certain situations. Magnesium oxide, for example, is faster-acting than calcite and can be used to neutralize extremely acidic water.

However, magnesium oxide is not self-limiting and may over-correct the pH, leading to a high pH. Soda ash, on the other hand, is a chemical feed pump that injects a soda ash solution into the water to neutralize the acidity. While soda ash is effective, it may not be suitable for households with well water, as it can introduce harmful chemicals into the water supply. Each option has its pros and cons, so it’s essential to choose the right neutralizer media based on your specific water conditions.

Read more:

Potential Health Risks

Acidic water can pose health risks, particularly if it contains high levels of heavy metals such as lead and copper. These metals can leach into the water from corroded pipes and fittings, leading to long-term exposure issues. Neutralizing acidic water with calcite media can help to reduce the risk of these health problems. However, it is essential to note that calcite media is not a substitute for proper water treatment and testing. Regular water testing is necessary to ensure that the water is safe to drink and free from harmful contaminants.

Installation and Maintenance Considerations

Installing a calcite media system requires attention to system size, media type, and water flow rate. Make sure the system is sized correctly for your water supply. Maintain the calcite media and check the gravel support bed to prevent clogs. Refill the media as needed to keep the system working. For best results, hire a licensed plumber to handle the installation. Proper setup and routine maintenance help the system run efficiently and provide clean, neutralized water.

Read more: