Frequently Asked Questions

2 March 2023

What is hard and soft water?


Hard water is water that is high in minerals like calcium, magnesium and carbonate. It can happen with both city and well water, and it takes a huge toll on your home, clogging up your appliances, creating spotty dishes and leaving your skin dray and your clothes dull and scratchy.


But with Hellenbrand   water softening equipment, sold by McAleer Water Conditioning, you can reduce the effect these minerals have on you, and your home. Softeners remove unwanted contaminates before your water even travels through your pipes, into your water using appliances, or before you switch on the taps of your bathrooms and kitchen. Giving you softened, mineral free water to every room in your house.


Why does soft water make my skin feel slippery?


Water softening equipment removes contaminates in your water so your skin is rinsed completely without hard water minerals left behind to trap residue and traces of soap, dead skin cells and other particles that can make your skin feel dry and scratchy. The slippery, softness you feel is what your skin is supposed to feel like.


Why isn’t my softener using much salt?


Hellenbrand   products are built for ultimate efficiency and use less water and salt than most competing systems. However, if for some reason your water isn’t feeling very soft and the level of salt isn’t decreasing as it should, call McAleer Water Conditioning at 800-397-1995 and one of our technicians would be happy to come to your home to check your equipment. 


If you suspect your home has hard water, contact McAleer Water Conditioning for top-quality water softening solutions. The locally owned and operated business has proudly assisted residents throughout Dubuque, Delaware, Jackson, Jones, and Linn counties achieve contaminant-free water for over 40 years. Browse their selection of water treatment equipment by visiting their website, or by calling (800) 397-1995 for a free estimate.

Father and son washing hands at a tap
26 August 2026
Water filtration in Manchester, IA, removes iron from well water. McAleer Water Conditioning offers expert solutions. Request a free water test today.
Woman's wet hands with water splashing
26 August 2026
Is Hiawatha, IA water hard? Learn local hardness levels and how Water Treatment in Hiawatha, IA from McAleer Water Conditioning can help. Get a free quote.
Carbon filter cartridges and glasses of water
26 August 2026
Learn what Cedar Rapids water actually needs. McAleer Water Conditioning explains water filtration in Cedar Rapids, IA. Get a free water test today.
Two glasses comparing clean and dirty tap water by a sink
26 August 2026
Water Treatment in Cedar Rapids, IA — learn what's in your tap water and how to fix it. McAleer Water Conditioning offers free water tests. Contact us today.
Water system treatment with a home filtration system, pitcher, and glass of water.
19 July 2026
Stay ahead of water treatment maintenance in Cascade, IA. McAleer Water Conditioning offers expert softener service since 1976. Call to schedule today.
Adult guiding a child washing hands under running water at a kitchen sink.
4 May 2026
McAleer Water separates fact from fiction, debunking common water softener myths to help Iowa homeowners make informed decisions.
Close-up of a faucet with a slow, thin stream of water against a dark tiled backsplash.
26 March 2026
Discover common causes of low water pressure in your home and how McAleer Water's solutions can help restore consistent water flow.
Modular architecture of reverse osmosis water purification.
9 February 2026
McAleer Water shares the top five maintenance practices to keep commercial water treatment systems running efficiently and reliably.
Water is being poured into a row of glasses
17 December 2025
Well water can sometimes carry a distinct flavor or odor that might seem off-putting. Learn how to ensure your well water is pleasant to drink.
A plumber is working on a water filter in a kitchen.
17 December 2025
Eventually, you will need to change even the best water filter for clean water in your home. This blog highlights five signs to replace a water filter.