FAQs

There are many questions you will have before proceeding with an installation. The folks at Valley Plumbing and Water Treatment will be happy to discuss any concerns you may have.

Below are some of the more frequently asked questions, but if you have a question that hasn't been answered here please feel free to contact us at your convenience.

Do you install plumbing in new homes?
Yes. We complete new home plumbing systems daily, and work with the home owner to ensure that any specific custom configurations are completed to their satisfaction.

What causes my water to smell like rotten eggs?
Sulphur hydrogen sulfide is the culprit. A trained technician can identiy the problem and recommend the solution through proper inspection and testing of your water and mechanical system.

How does a water softener work?
A water softener is plumbed where the water enters the house. It removes calcium (hardness) and magnesium from the water and exchanges it for sodium or potassium, depending upon which type of chloride you use.

Will Using a Water Softener Damage A Septic Tank?
Water softeners have not been shown to have adverse effects on home waste water treatment systems.

How much maintenance does a water softener require?
Water softeners are self cleaning. Some automatically measure the amount of water used and regenerate by backflushing and running salt brine through the system to remove the minerals collected. You add salt once a month. Like a vehicle, it is a good idea to service on an annual basis.

What is the difference between a water softener and carbon treatment system?
A softerner will remove calcium (hardness) from your water while carbon is used to eliminate taste and odour.

What is UV?
Ultraviolet light (UV) is energy at the invisble violet end of the light spectrum. Even though we can't see UV light we are exposed to UV rays from all light sources, including the sun.

How does ultraviolet light purify water?
UV rays penetrate the cells of harmful bacteria and viruses in our drinking water destroying their ability to reproduce. Without the ability to reproduce, these organisms die and no longer pose a health threat. UV is a low cost and highly effective process for destroying 99.99% of harmful microorganisms.

How often does the UV light bulb (lamp) need to be replaced?
The ability of the lamp to emit UV light decreases over time. You should change the UV lamp annually. Remember - UV light is invisible! Even though the lamp is still glowing after one year, there might not be enough UV light reaching your water to be effective.

What is Reverse Osmosis?
Reverse osmosis is the finest filtration available today. It is the most common treatment method used by bottled water companies.

How does a Reverse Osmosis water purifier work?
Reverse Osmosis forces water through a semi-permeable membrane. The pores in the membrane are so small they reject 92%-98% of all dissolved solids. Reverse Osmosis is usually combined with at least one carbon filter to remove organic contaminants that cause taste, odor and color problems.

Can Reverse Osmosis be used on well water or water from other untreated sources (lake or river)?
Yes. RO is generally an excellent choice for homeowners with well water. However, it is important to note that Reverse Osmosis does not provide foolproof protection against all microorganisms. A combination of one or more systems may be required to ensure safe drinking water.