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ClearWave™ (Continued)
The length of time required to alter the characteristics of the lime scale is dependent on the mineral makeup of the water being treated. The mineral makeup of the water can impact the operation of the ClearWave's electrical field. A high concentration of iron (soluble and insoluble) causes a disruption and weakening of the electrical field, reducing the effectiveness on scale reduction. Under these conditions an iron removal system is required to filter out the iron prior to the ClearWave. Additionally, if the water is excessively hard (greater than 25 grains), the ClearWave is often less effective.
The current practice of determining water hardness is the measurement of the concentration of calcium and magnesium in the water. The traditional water softener removes the calcium and magnesium from the water through a process called ion exchange; which will show a change in hardness using the current practice for measuring water hardness. Since the ClearWave does not remove any calcium or magnesium ions from the water, testing the water before and after the installation of the ClearWave will not show any change. The best method of evaluation is to monitor the effects the ClearWave has on scale forming areas.
The degree of water hardness in the table below will allow you to determine what type of water hardness you have.
| Description of water hardness |
Parts per million (PPM) of calcium carbonate equivalent |
Grains per gallon (gpg) of calcium carbonate equivalent |
|---|---|---|
| Soft | less than 17.1 | less than 1.0 |
| Slightly Hard | 17.1 to 60 | 1.0 to 3.5 |
| Moderately Hard | 60 to 120 | 3.5 to 7.0 |
| Hard | 120 to 180 | 7.0 to 10.5 |
| Very Hard | 180 and above | 10.5 and above |
If your water falls under the description of Soft or Slightly Hard the effects of the ClearWave on the scale (if any) will not be noticeable. Any water problem you have is probably not caused by calcium or magnesium. The maximum hardness level the ClearWave will effectively work on is 425 ppm or 25 gpg. Above these levels, the ClearWave should be used in conjunction with a traditional ion exchange water softener to remove hardness and condition the water. This allows you to minimize the salt used to remove the hardness and maintain the cost saving benefits of the ClearWave water-conditioning system.
One ClearWave will satisfy the requirements of homes that have water mains of 1" or less. If your main water supply is larger than 1" but less the 1.5", then two Clear installed side by side are recommended.
Each ClearWave comes with an Owner's Manual and video that explains how and where to install your ClearWave. The following is a brief outline.
Where to install the ClearWave
The ClearWave coils should be mounted on the water supply pipe as it enters the building, before the piping branches off to supply the water heater and any cold water taps. This allows the ClearWave to condition all of the water supplied to the building.
- The ClearWave is designed and tested to cause little or no interference to other communication devices. However, it should be installed at least ten feet from any radio, television or cordless telephone base unit to eliminate any possible interference.
- If you must install the unit outside, make sure you mount the ClearWave in a waterproof enclosure.
- Since no plumbing is involved with the installation of the unit, it can be taken with you if you move.
Copyright © 2005 Thermosol S.A de C.V.