Water Education & FAQs
Understand Your Water. Choose the Right Solution.
At Real Water Systems, we believe informed customers make better decisions. That’s why we created this resource center — to help you understand how water filtration works, why it matters, and what system is right for you.
Whether you're new to water treatment or comparing your options, this page breaks down common questions and provides expert answers based on
real-world experience in Southwest Missouri.
Start with Our Most-Asked Questions
Our team fields questions every day from homeowners, business owners, and property managers trying to make sense of their water issues. Here are the answers to some of the most common ones:
What’s the difference between a filter and a softener?
A filter removes contaminants like iron, sulfur, chlorine, and sediment. A softener removes hardness minerals (calcium and magnesium) that cause scale. Many homes need both, depending on their water source.
Do salt-free systems really work?
Yes — salt-less water conditioners reduce scale buildup using physical conditioning, not sodium. They're ideal for mild to moderate hardness but not a perfect substitute for traditional softeners in every case.
What if I’m on well water?
Private wells often contain iron, sulfur, bacteria, and other issues. We offer free well water testing and customized treatment plans based on your specific water profile.
How often should I test my water?
We recommend testing once a year if you're on a well, or whenever you notice changes in taste, smell, or staining. We provide fast, in-person testing at no charge.
Do you service the systems you install?
Absolutely. We offer ongoing support, maintenance plans, filter changes, and salt delivery for all systems we install — and even for some we didn’t.
Why Water Quality Impacts More Than Just Taste
From Appliances to Health, It All Starts with Clean Water
Water is used in nearly every task in your home or business. Poor water quality affects:
Skin and hair
Laundry and dishes
Water heaters, boilers, and fixtures
Long-term plumbing costs
Educational Guides & Articles
Want to dive deeper? Below are helpful breakdowns of the most common water topics for Missouri homes and businesses. These pages are written in plain English and updated regularly.
City Water vs. Well Water
What’s in Your Tap — and Why It Matters
Whether you're on public utilities or a private well, water quality varies significantly. Learn:
- The key differences in treatment and contaminants
- What to test for based on your source
- How filtration needs change depending on supply
Hard Water Explained
How It Affects Your Home, Skin, and Budget
Hard water doesn’t just leave spots on dishes — it shortens the lifespan of appliances and plumbing. This guide covers:
- What hardness is (and how it’s measured)
- Signs of hard water in your home
- Treatment options: softeners vs. conditioners
Salt-Less vs. Traditional Softeners
Which System Is Right for You?
Curious about going salt-free? This guide compares the pros and cons of both technologies, helping you understand:
- What each system can (and can’t) do
- Cost, maintenance, and water use differences
- When salt-free is a smart choice — and when it’s not
Need Help Understanding Your Water? We’re Here for That.
Still not sure what system is right for you? Or what your water test results actually mean?
At Real Water Systems, we don’t just install — we educate. We'll help you understand what’s in your water, walk you through treatment options, and find a solution that fits your budget and lifestyle.
Based in Diamond, MO | Serving Joplin, Carthage, Neosho & beyond
