Frequently asked questions
Answers to the questions we hear most often about water quality, our equipment, and how we work. Over 30 years serving Central Illinois homes, farms, and businesses.
Water softeners and filtration
How do I know if I have hard water?
Common signs include white or yellowish mineral scale on faucets and showerheads, spots on dishes and glassware, soap that does not lather well, and skin that feels dry after showering. A free water test will confirm it and tell you exactly how hard your water is in grains per gallon (GPG). Central Illinois water is notoriously hard. Communities like Pekin and Creve Coeur regularly exceed 35 GPG, which is at the extreme end of the hardness scale.
Is softened water safe to drink?
Softened water is generally safe to drink. The softening process replaces calcium and magnesium with a small amount of sodium. For most people this is not a concern, but people on sodium-restricted diets or those with specific health considerations may prefer a reverse osmosis system at the drinking tap, which removes the sodium along with other dissolved solids.
How often does a water softener need salt?
It depends on your water hardness, household size, and system size. A typical household might add a 40-pound bag of salt once a month, though it can be more or less. The Hydrotech 89 Series uses demand-based regeneration, meaning it only regenerates when needed, which reduces both salt and water usage significantly compared to timer-based units.
What is the difference between a water softener and a whole-home filter?
A water softener addresses hardness minerals, specifically calcium and magnesium, through ion exchange. A whole-home carbon filter addresses taste, odor, chlorine, and chloramines. The Hydrotech HTO combines both in a single dual-tank system with one control valve, which is often the most practical and cost-effective solution for Central Illinois water conditions.
What does a reverse osmosis system remove?
Our RO systems are certified by IAPMO R&T, NSF/ANSI 58, and CSA B483.1 to reduce or remove: Barium, Cadmium, Copper, Fluoride, Chromium-6 (hexavalent), Chromium-3 (trivalent), Lead, Arsenic-V, Radium 226/228, Selenium, total dissolved solids (TDS), turbidity, and PFOA/PFOS. The H.E.R.O. and all 1812-type TFC 75GPD/100GPD membranes are WQA Gold Seal certified and made in the USA. We configure each system based on your actual test results.
What is hydrogen peroxide water treatment?
Hydrogen peroxide injection treats well water with iron, sulfur, or other oxidizable contaminants and provides disinfection without chlorine residuals. It oxidizes contaminants so they can be filtered out, then breaks down into oxygen and water, leaving no chemical residual. For people who want disinfection without the taste, odor, or byproducts of chlorine, it is the better option.
Air sanitizing and filters
How is the SFS different from a regular air purifier?
Most air purifiers are passive: they capture particles as air passes through a filter. The SFS actively sanitizes the air around it using germicidal technology. It does not require replacement filters and runs continuously without any ongoing consumable cost. The unit is also backed by a lifetime warranty when annual service is maintained.
Does the SFS connect to my HVAC system?
No. The SFS is a standalone unit that plugs into a standard electrical outlet. It can be placed anywhere in your home. No HVAC integration or ductwork required. We also offer separate electrostatic washable HVAC filters for customers who want better particle filtration through their existing forced-air system.
What are electrostatic washable HVAC filters?
These are reusable filters that use a static charge to attract and hold fine particles including dust, pollen, and pet dander. You wash them instead of replacing them: no ongoing filter cost, less waste. They maintain better airflow than high-MERV disposable filters and are a practical long-term solution for any forced-air system.
Our business and process
What areas do you serve?
We serve communities throughout Central Illinois including Peoria, Canton, East Peoria, Pekin, Washington, Creve Coeur, Morton, Galesburg, Bloomington, Normal, Lincoln, El Paso, Eureka, Metamora, Lacon, Chillicothe, Bartonville, Dunlap, Roanoke, Tremont, Princeville, and many surrounding communities. Call us if you are unsure whether we cover your area.
Do you service water treatment equipment you did not install?
Yes, in many cases. We service most makes and models regardless of who originally installed them. We are Hydrotech Factory Certified Technicians. Book a service visit online or call (309) 258-2582.
Do you use AI to manage customer information?
No. We do not use AI or large language models in any part of our business operations. Customer data is handled by our local team using software written in-house. Your information is never processed by automated AI systems, and it is never sold or shared with any third party.
What warranties do your systems carry?
Our warranties are structured as follows:
Timely annual service is what keeps the SFS lifetime warranty active. Our team will remind you when service is due.
Have a question? We will call you back.
Drop your name and number and we will reach out, usually the same day.
Still have questions?
Call or text us directly. We are happy to talk through your situation before scheduling anything.