Is My Whole Home Water Filtration System Is Working Properly?

Hard water is a common issue across the Fraser Valley and much of British Columbia. It can leave white deposits on faucets, reduce appliance efficiency, and even affect your skin and hair. Many homeowners invest in a whole home water filtration system with a water softener to protect their home, but how do you know if it’s working properly?

At EDS Pumps & Water Treatment, we help Fraser Valley homeowners keep their water systems running efficiently.

Here are the key signs your system may need attention:

1. Return of Hard Water Symptoms

Even with a whole home water filtration system, hard water can sneak back if the system isn’t working correctly. Look for:

• White, chalky deposits on faucets, showerheads, or dishes
• Soap scum buildup in sinks, bathtubs, and showers
• Dry or itchy skin and dull hair

These signs are often caused by calcium and magnesium in local water sources, which are common in wells and municipal systems across the Fraser Valley. EDS Pumps & Water Treatment can test your water and identify any issues with your system. Read more on the hidden costs of hard water in our article here.

2. Unusual Salt Usage

Your water softener relies on salt to regenerate. If you notice:

• Using too much or too little salt
• A hard crust forming at the bottom of the tank (called salt bridging)

It could mean your softener isn’t regenerating properly. This is a common issue for BC homeowners with older systems. If you’re experiencing unusual salt usage with your water softener, call the Water Specialists at EDS Pumps to inspect your system and ensure proper operation at 604-534-1115.

3. Strange Noises or Silence

During regeneration, softeners make a low humming or trickling sound. If you hear:

• Hissing, grinding, or banging
• Complete silence during a regeneration cycle

It could indicate a mechanical issue, like a faulty valve or timer.

4. Changes in Water Quality

If your water tastes off, looks cloudy, or has particles floating in it, your whole home water filtration system may not be removing minerals effectively. Local water in the Fraser Valley often carries high levels of calcium and iron, which can affect taste and clarity. EDS Pumps can test your water with our in-house laboratory and recommend solutions to get your water to the highest quality.

5. Reduced Water Flow

Low water pressure or leaks around your softener tank may indicate internal problems. Mineral buildup or resin issues can reduce flow and efficiency in your whole home water filtration system.

6. Discolored Water or Resin Beads

• Brown or orange water may signal rust or sediment buildup.
• Tiny resin beads in water can damage plumbing and appliances if the internal screen is torn.

Both are signs that your whole home water filtration system may need maintenance or media replacement.

7. When Re-Bedding the Media Helps

Many Fraser Valley homeowners call us reporting water softener issues or hard water symptoms. In many cases, the solution is simple: re-bed the media, that is, replace the resin or filtration media inside your system.

Re-bedding the media:

• Restores proper mineral removal and water softening
• Improve water clarity, taste, and feel
• Extends the life of your system

It’s often an easier and more cost-effective solution than replacing the entire system.

What Fraser Valley Homeowners Can Do?

1. Check your salt levels regularly. Ensure the brine tank has enough salt and isn’t forming a crust.
2. Inspect for leaks around your resin tank or plumbing.
3. Call the local experts.

At EDS Pumps & Water Treatment, we provide water testing, maintenance, and re-bedding services for homes across Langley and the Fraser Valley. Call the Water Specialists at EDS  604-534-1115 or fill out our contact form here.

Why Local Maintenance Matters

Many Fraser Valley homes have hard water levels exceeding 150 ppm (parts per million). This is high enough to cause scaling in pipes and appliances if not treated properly. Regular maintenance, including re-bedding the media, ensures your whole home water filtration system continues to work efficiently, protecting your home and your family.

When it comes to water…come to us!

Regular maintenance and media replacement keep your whole home water filtration system running smoothly, your plumbing safe, and your water feeling great. Contact EDS Pumps & Water Treatment today to schedule a system check or service with our local experts!