FAQ's

Scaltrol - Frequently Asked Questions

How does it work?

Water is known as the universal solvent. Most water sources are saturated with large amounts of minerals, such as calcium carbonate (lime scale), calcium sulfate, iron and manganese.  The amount of minerals carried in saturation varies with the type of rock formation and other factors such as pH, oxygen content and temperature. These minerals can cause corrosion and scale buildup, decreasing the efficiency of your appliances and plumbing while eventually ruining it. Very simply, Scaltrol stops mineral scale by introducing a measured amount of sequestrant into the water. The mineral molecules, which have a positive charge, are attracted to and held in suspension by the negative charge of the sequestrant. The mineral molecules are unable to join together, so scale is unable to form, and existing scale is usually broken down.

Why do I have more problems with hot water appliances like my water heater or dishwasher?

Because any increase in temperature, or pressure drop will cause minerals to precipitate (form scale). So, water passing through a water faucet, shower head, or the heated in a water heater will affect water’s ability to hold the dissolved minerals in suspension. The greater the temperature (such as a milk house water heater) or pressure drop (as in a showerhead) the more minerals will be deposited.

Is the sequestrant safe?
Yes. Scaltrol uses a microscopic amount (~ 5 ppm) of naturally occurring, food grade polyphosphate. Your body requires phosphate and it is commonly found in jellies, meat, and soft drinks. Polyphosphate will not harm the environment and is it used in hospitals, restaurants, and by hundreds of municipals across the country. The Scaltrol formulation is even NSF certified. There is no odor or taste to the formulation to give your water any off-flavor. Some may notice a difference though, as minerals do add a taste you have probably become accustomed to, and now those will no longer be there.

What minerals is it effective against?

Scaltol is designed to prevent scaling from a variety of minerals.  It is highly effective against calcium (aka, calcium carbonate or lime), as well as iron, copper and magnesium. Calcium is the white scale that builds up on your showerhead, water heater elements and bottom of your tea kettle. Imagine what the inside of your pipes and water heater are like! Iron is also common and causes the rust color staining in your toilets, tub, and fixtures. Your Scaltrol unit will treat iron in levels up to 1ppm.  Scaltrol will also protect your system from chlorides which can be very corrosive to water heater parts and other plumbing components.  Generally, if you are protecting just against calcium you can install it on the inlet to your water heater and it will protect most of your plumbing and appliances that are affected.  If you have iron or other minerals, you will want to install it on your cold water main line to cover your whole system.

Will it remove bacteria or chemicals?

No.  The Scalrol is only designed to prevent scale build-up due to minerals.  It is not designed to be a water purifier from manmade pollutants which will require specialized equipment based on your specific contaminants.

I am on a low-sodium diet; Is the Scaltrol safe?

Yes.  Unlike conventional softeners which exchange the calcium for sodium chloride (salt), the Scaltrol adds no salt to your water.  This is important for those on a restricted salt diet.  It’s safer for your back too as you don’t have to lug all those heavy salt bags into the house every few months!

Is it expensive to operate?

No, it can actually save you money! Manufacturers of hydronic equipment report that 80% of service calls are a result of poor water quality. Scaltrol will loosen and flush that scale from your waterlines and appliance (like water heater elements) leaving a protective microfilm to prevent corrosion and allow water to flow more freely. By reducing mineral deposits, you prolong the life of your water heater and other appliances thus avoiding costly repairs. The Scaltrol is also inexpensive to maintain.  About once a year, replace the cartridge when it is used up.  Just unscrew the canister, drop in a new cartridge and replace the canister.

I hear these can save water?

Yes. Conventional water softeners must regenerate and backflush at night to operate.  This process uses many gallons of water that has no other purpose than this backflush operation.  The Scaltrol treats the actual water used, so there is no wasted water thus saving your money and the environment.

Is the Scaltrol easy to install?
Yes! The Scaltrol unit is economical to purchase and easy to install. An experienced do-it-yourselfer or plumber can install the unit because it's non-electrical and non-mechanical. We also offer accessories such as a plumbing kit and sediment filter so you can get what you need and avoid the gas for four trips to the hardware store.  Best of all, it's really easy to take care of - simply replace the cartridge about once a year (depending on the amount of water you use). Doesn’t that sound better than trying to haul bag after bag of salt pellets into your basement like conventional sodium based softeners require?

What is the purpose of the Rusco Sediment filter?

If you have an existing filter, you do not need this. Most water however carries with it sediment in the form of rust, sediment and debris.  This sediment can lodge under faucet washers and in appliance components causing leaks and other issues. The Scaltrol also has a carefully sized orifice that feeds the proper amount of treatment into the water. This orifice can become blocked by sediment, limiting the effectiveness of the unit. Our Rusco Sediment Filters are a one-time investment, that doesn’t require you to continually buy additional replacement filters. Just flush the sediment out as needed (at least once a year) by opening the self-flush valve at the bottom. It only takes a few seconds and costs nothing!

Any limitations about where I install the Scaltrol?

The Scaltrol unit may be fitted on your cold water main, your cold feed to your water heater, or with the high temperature Scaltrol (HSC models) on a hot water line. Water pressure for effective dispensing of Scaltrol should NOT exceed 55 PSI and a check valve should be installed before the Scaltrol unit. The top of the unit must be fitted in a horizontal position.  It should also be installed where it is accessible for cartridge replacement.

How long will a cartridge last?

You should buy a Scaltrol unit to match your usage.  The SC50 is designed to treat approximately 50,000 gallons of water and will serve most households (See our sizing chart for more information). Depending on whether you are treating just the hot, or hot and cold, a cartridge will typically last about a year or a little longer.

How long can the cartridges be stored?

The cartridges are sealed to give them some protection, but the polyphosphate is hydroscopic - meaning it wants to absorb water.  If stored in the box in a dry location the replacement cartridge will last a couple years without a problem, however we generally advise buying fresh replacements from us as needed.

What is the warranty on the Scaltrol?

Scaltrol offers a one year limited warranty from the date of installation.  The warranty covers exchange of parts that are manufacturers defects.  In addition, Scaltrol offers a performance guarantee as long as it is installed within 90 days of purchase and if installed according to enclosed directions.  If Scaltrol fails to perform the intended purpose of controlling scale build up, the unit can be returned for a refund.  The warranty does not cover the replacement cartridge which is a consumable and can be purchased separately.

Sizing guide

Note: This sizing chart is for guidance only; total gallon usage is the best guide for determining correct size. For applications where there is higher pressure or hot water will be entering the Scaltrol, be sure to specify the HSC model.