GALENE BLOG

Your home water questions, answered.

Plain-English answers from Galene's water specialists to the questions Florida homeowners ask most.

7 min read

Why Does My Water Smell Like Rotten Eggs? (And How to Fix It)

That rotten egg smell is usually hydrogen sulfide. Learn what causes it in well and city water, whether it's safe, and how to get rid of it for good.

5 min read

How Much Does a Water Softener System Cost?

What really goes into the price of a water softener or whole-home water system, the hidden costs of salt, and how to get an exact quote for your home.

7 min read

What Is PFAS? A Plain-English Guide to Forever Chemicals in Water

PFAS, or forever chemicals, are showing up in the news and in drinking water. Here's what they are, how they get into water and what you can do at home.

7 min read

Whole-House Water Filter vs. Under-Sink Filter: Which Do You Need?

Compare whole-house water filtration and under-sink filters, including reverse osmosis, to decide what's right for drinking water, showers and appliances.

6 min read

Does Florida Have Hard Water?

Many Florida homes get hard water from mineral-rich aquifers. Learn the signs and what you can do about scale at home.

6 min read

What Are the Signs of Hard Water in Your Home?

Spotty dishes, crusty faucets and dry skin can all point to hard water. Here are the most common signs to look for.

6 min read

Salt-Free Water Conditioner vs. Salt-Based Softener: What's the Difference?

Salt-based softeners remove hardness minerals. Salt-free conditioners reduce scale without removing them. Here's how to choose.

6 min read

Do Salt-Free Water Softeners Really Work?

Salt-free systems don't soften water the way a traditional softener does. Here's what they do, and when they're a good fit.

6 min read

How Long Does a Water Softener Last?

Water softeners wear out over time. Learn the signs your softener is failing and when it makes sense to replace it.

6 min read

How Much Does a Whole-House Water Filter System Cost?

Installed price depends on the treatment, flow capacity and plumbing work. Here's what affects the cost and what to compare.

5 min read

Is a Whole-House Water Filter Worth It?

A whole-house system treats water at every tap, not just the kitchen. Here's who benefits most and what to consider.

8 min read

What Does a Whole-House Water Filter Remove?

It depends on the media inside. Learn what common whole-house filters target, from chlorine to sediment.

6 min read

How Do You Remove Chlorine From Tap Water?

Chlorine keeps city water safe but can affect taste and smell. Here are the common ways to reduce it at home.

7 min read

How Do You Remove Iron From Well Water?

Orange stains and metallic taste usually mean iron. Learn how iron filters work and how to choose the right treatment.

6 min read

Why Is My Well Water Orange or Brown?

Discolored well water is usually caused by iron, manganese or sediment. Here's what each looks like and how to treat it.

5 min read

How Often Should You Test Your Well Water?

Private well owners are responsible for their own water quality. Here's when to test and what to look for.

7 min read

Is It Safe to Drink Well Water?

Well water can be safe, but only testing can confirm it. Learn the common risks and how to protect your family.

6 min read

How to Get Rid of the Sulfur Smell in Well Water

That rotten egg smell is usually hydrogen sulfide. Here are the common ways to treat it, from quick checks to whole-home systems.

6 min read

How Much Does an Under-Sink Reverse Osmosis System Cost Installed?

Installed RO cost depends on the system, faucet connection and filter costs. Here's what to compare before you buy.

7 min read

Is Reverse Osmosis Water Good for You?

RO water is filtered through a fine membrane. Learn what it reduces, the mineral question, and who it suits.

6 min read

Reverse Osmosis vs. Water Softener: Do I Need Both?

A softener treats water for the whole house; RO treats drinking water at one tap. Here's how they work together.

5 min read

How to Stop Buying Bottled Water at Home

Tired of hauling cases of water? Here's how home filtration can give you great-tasting water from the tap.

6 min read

Can Home Water Filters Remove PFAS?

Some filter technologies are designed to reduce PFAS. Learn what to look for and what questions to ask.

6 min read

How Do I Know If My Water Has PFAS?

You can't see, smell or taste PFAS. Here's how to find out if they're in your water.

6 min read

Can a Water Filter Remove Fluoride?

Not every filter reduces fluoride. Learn which technologies target it and what to look for.

7 min read

What Is a Softener Loop?

Many Florida homes are built with a softener loop. Learn what it is and why it makes installing a water system easier.

6 min read

How Does Hard Water Affect Your Water Heater?

Scale can build up inside water heaters over time. Learn the signs and how to protect yours.

6 min read

Why Are There White Spots on My Dishes and Glasses?

Cloudy spots after the dishwasher are usually hard water minerals. Here's how to fix them.

7 min read

Can Hard Water Cause Dry Skin and Hair?

Many people notice dry skin or dull hair in hard water areas. Here's why it may happen and what can help.