Can softened water be used in a steam iron?
The best choice of water for steam irons is distilled water, particularly for use over a long period of time. Softened water is not free of minerals which may clog steam irons. Should softened water be used in operating an evaporative cooler? The sodium in softened water will accumulate on evaporative cooler pads. The pads should be cleaned monthly by hosing them with hard water to remove the sodium buildup. Softened water may also be harmful to metal parts in coolers causing excessive accumulation of rust. Bypassing the cooler with a separate water line for hard water is possible, but installation and maintenance costs must be considered. The advantages of softened water are numerous. You can expect cleaner, softer-feeling clothes, less use of household cleaning products, such as detergents, less use of personal cleanliness products, such as shampoo, and all-around easier maintenance and upkeep of the home. You can also expect longer life of appliances, including washing machines, dis
