Monday, December 10, 2012
Wednesday, December 5, 2012
RainSoft of Austin - How Much Does Bottled Water Really Cost You
RainSoft of Austin, an authorized RainSoft Dealer
Locate a RainSoft Dealer near you or read what customers are saying about RainSoft at RainSoft Reviews.
Bottled water has become so popular that 41 billion gallons are consumed every year around the world. Many people consider it safe and convenient. Over the past few years, however, many bottled water companies labeling their product as "purified" or "natural spring water" have confessed to filling their products with simple tap water. In July 2007, for instance, Pepsi admitted to filling bottles of Aquafina with public water, even though the packaging suggests the water comes from natural springs [source: Environmental Working Group]. Recent studies have concluded that bottled water is no safer than tap water, and the costs of producing the drink and its effect on the environment have caused some alarm [source: National Geographic News].
To understand how expensive regular bottled water is, let's compare it with gasoline. With the price of oil rising, we typically think of gasoline as very expensive. On the other hand, some of us will barely blink an eye at picking up a few bottles of water from the same gas station. Here are the numbers:
A gallon of gas costs around $3. If we assume a one-liter bottle of water from the store costs about $2.50, a gallon of the same bottled water should cost about $10. Water, life's most necessary substance, costs about three times more than gasoline when it comes in a plastic bottle. If you wanted to fill up a car's 15-gallon tank with gasoline, it would cost you about $45. If you wanted to fill up that same 15-gallon tank with bottled water, it would cost you $150 [source: National Geographic News].
Tap water, on the other hand, costs a fraction of the price of bottled water. The same $2 you spend on a liter of bottled water will get you about 1,000 gallons of tap water [source: EPA].
So, even though it's cheaper than Bling H20, bottled water is still expensive. Next, we'll take a look at some of the other products on the market that seem to cost more than they're worth.
More from How Stuff Works.
Bottled water has become so popular that 41 billion gallons are consumed every year around the world. Many people consider it safe and convenient. Over the past few years, however, many bottled water companies labeling their product as "purified" or "natural spring water" have confessed to filling their products with simple tap water. In July 2007, for instance, Pepsi admitted to filling bottles of Aquafina with public water, even though the packaging suggests the water comes from natural springs [source: Environmental Working Group]. Recent studies have concluded that bottled water is no safer than tap water, and the costs of producing the drink and its effect on the environment have caused some alarm [source: National Geographic News].
To understand how expensive regular bottled water is, let's compare it with gasoline. With the price of oil rising, we typically think of gasoline as very expensive. On the other hand, some of us will barely blink an eye at picking up a few bottles of water from the same gas station. Here are the numbers:
A gallon of gas costs around $3. If we assume a one-liter bottle of water from the store costs about $2.50, a gallon of the same bottled water should cost about $10. Water, life's most necessary substance, costs about three times more than gasoline when it comes in a plastic bottle. If you wanted to fill up a car's 15-gallon tank with gasoline, it would cost you about $45. If you wanted to fill up that same 15-gallon tank with bottled water, it would cost you $150 [source: National Geographic News].
Tap water, on the other hand, costs a fraction of the price of bottled water. The same $2 you spend on a liter of bottled water will get you about 1,000 gallons of tap water [source: EPA].
So, even though it's cheaper than Bling H20, bottled water is still expensive. Next, we'll take a look at some of the other products on the market that seem to cost more than they're worth.
More from How Stuff Works.
RainSoft Drinking Water Systems
Bottled water quality without the bottle. You'll enjoy deliciously fresh drinking water all the time with one of our reverse osmosis systems. And with RainSoft drinking water purification systems, there are no heavy bottles to lug or deliveries to schedule. Just turn on the faucet and enjoy. You'll also be doing the environment a favor!
Coffee, tea, ice, soups, juices...you name it! Anything made with water from RainSoft home water filtration systems will taste noticeably better. So will your prepared foods. After all, water is the number one ingredient in your kitchen. You'll taste the difference every time you use water from your RainSoft drinking water system.
Home Water Treatment
With two premium drinking water systems, RainSoft water treatment delivers a higher quality and better tasting drinking water experience. Not only will the water from a RainSoft drinking water system in your glass taste distinctly better, but so will all of the food and beverages you make with it.
Ultrefiner reverse osmosis water systems are RainSoft's premier drinking water system. Using advanced RO technology, the Ultrefiner provides highly polished drinking water that filters out smaller particles that can be missed by less refined drinking water systems.
For out-of-the-way convenience, Hydrefiner drinking water systems deliver a continuous supply of clean, fresh water from right under your sink. Utilizing a compressed carbon-block filter, the Hydrefiner eliminates bad tastes and odors from home drinking water.
RainSoft Drinking Water Systems
Bottled water quality without the bottle. You'll enjoy deliciously fresh drinking water all the time with one of our reverse osmosis systems. And with RainSoft drinking water purification systems, there are no heavy bottles to lug or deliveries to schedule. Just turn on the faucet and enjoy. You'll also be doing the environment a favor!Coffee, tea, ice, soups, juices...you name it! Anything made with water from RainSoft home water filtration systems will taste noticeably better. So will your prepared foods. After all, water is the number one ingredient in your kitchen. You'll taste the difference every time you use water from your RainSoft drinking water system.
Home Water Treatment
With two premium drinking water systems, RainSoft water treatment delivers a higher quality and better tasting drinking water experience. Not only will the water from a RainSoft drinking water system in your glass taste distinctly better, but so will all of the food and beverages you make with it.Ultrefiner reverse osmosis water systems are RainSoft's premier drinking water system. Using advanced RO technology, the Ultrefiner provides highly polished drinking water that filters out smaller particles that can be missed by less refined drinking water systems.
For out-of-the-way convenience, Hydrefiner drinking water systems deliver a continuous supply of clean, fresh water from right under your sink. Utilizing a compressed carbon-block filter, the Hydrefiner eliminates bad tastes and odors from home drinking water.
Tuesday, November 6, 2012
RainSoft of Austin - Where to Find Water During an Emergency or Disaster
RainSoft of Austin - an authorized RainSoft Dealer
11525 Stonehollow Drive
Suite 250
Austin, TX 78758
Locate a RainSoft Dealer.
See what people in your area are saying about RainSoft at RainSoft Reviews.
Water Safety Tips During an Emergency or Disaster from the CDC
See what people in your area are saying about RainSoft at RainSoft Reviews.
Water Safety Tips During an Emergency or Disaster from the CDC
Finding Emergency Water Sources
Alternative sources of clean water can be found inside and outside the home. DO NOT DRINK water that has an unusual odor or color, or that you know or suspect might be contaminated with fuel or toxic chemicals; use a different source of water.
The following are possible sources of water:
Inside the Home
- Water from your home’s water heater tank (part of your drinking water system, not your home heating system)
- Melted ice cubes made with water that was not contaminated
- Water from your home’s toilet tank (not from the bowl), if it is clear and has not been chemically treated with toilet cleaners such as those that change the color of the water
- Liquid from canned fruit and vegetables
- Water from swimming pools and spas can be used for personal hygiene, cleaning, and related uses, but not for drinking.
Listen to reports from local officials for advice on water precautions in your home. It may be necessary to shut off the main water valve to your home to prevent contaminants from entering your piping system.
Outside the Home
- Rainwater
- Streams, rivers, and other moving bodies of water
- Ponds and lakes
- Natural springs
Water from sources outside the home must be treated as described in Make Water Safe.
Unsafe Water Sources
Never use water from the following sources:
- Radiators
- Hot water boilers (part of your home heating system)
- Water beds (fungicides added to the water and/or chemicals in the vinyl may make water unsafe for use)
Thursday, October 11, 2012
10 Steps to Make Your Home Asthma-Friendly
Clearing the Air of Asthma Triggers:
10 Steps to Making Your Home Asthma-Friendly
United States Environmental Protection Agency EPA 402-F-04-017- Take it outside. One of the most common asthma triggers in the home is secondhand smoke. Until you can quit, smoke outside, not in your home or car.
- Good night, little mite! Dust mites are also triggers for asthma. For mite population control, cover mattresses and pillows with dust-proof (allergen impermeable) zippered covers. Wash sheets and blankets once a week in hot water.
- Play it Safe. Ozone and particle pollution can cause asthma attacks. Watch for the Air Quality Index (AQI) during your local weather report. When AQI reports unhealthy levels, limit outdoor activities.
- A little goes a long way. Reduce everyday dust build-up, by regularly dusting with a damp cloth and vacuuming carpet and fabric-covered furniture.
- Stake your claim. Household pets can trigger asthma with skin flakes, urine, and saliva. Keep pets outdoors, if possible.
- Uninvite unwelcome guests. Cockroaches can trigger asthma. Don't invite them into your home by leaving food or garbage out. Always clean up messes and spills and store food in airtight containers.
- Think before you spray. Instead of pesticide sprays, control pests by using baits or traps. If sprays are necessary, always circulate fresh air into the room being treated and keep asthma sufferers out of that room for several hours after any spraying.
- Break the mold. Mold is another asthma trigger. The key to controlling mold is controlling moisture. Wash and dry hard surfaces to prevent and remove mold. Replace moldy ceiling tiles and carpet.
- Air it out. Reducing the moisture will control asthma triggers like mold, cockroaches, and dust mites. Use exhaust fans or open windows when cooking and showering. Fix leaky plumbing or other unwanted sources of water.
- Plan before the attack. Work with your doctor or healthcare provider to develop a written asthma management plan for your child that includes information on your child’s triggers and how to manage them.
Post a note. Post this plan on your refrigerator to help control asthma triggers and reduce asthma attacks in your home. Share it with those who spend time with your child like teachers, babysitters, and coaches.
pdf version of this list: EPA 402-F-04-017
RainSoft air purification systems treat the entire home, not just one room. Our systems mount directly into the ductwork of your home, providing cleaner, fresher air throughout the entire house. With advanced UV light and ozone lamp technology, the AirMaster Ultra system eliminates airborne contaminants in your home.
RainSoft of Austin
11525 Stonehollow Drive Suite 250
Austin, TX 78758
(512) 837-2488
Austin, TX 78758
RainSoft of Austin, an authorized RainSoft Dealer
Locate a RainSoft Dealer near you.
Find find out what people from your area are saying about RainSoft at RainSoft Reviews.
Tuesday, September 18, 2012
Your Water May Not Be Safe for Everyone - Listen Here
What is Safe Water? This audio file from the USGS can tell you more.
If you have questions about your drinking water RainSoft can answer them. Your RainSoft Dealer can also perform a Free In Home Water Test.
Home Water Treatment
With two premium drinking water systems, RainSoft water treatment delivers a higher quality and better tasting drinking water experience. Not only will the water from a RainSoft drinking water system in your glass taste distinctly better, but so will all of the food and beverages you make with it.Ultrefiner reverse osmosis water systems are RainSoft's premier drinking water system. Using advanced RO technology, the Ultrefiner provides highly polished drinking water that filters out smaller particles that can be missed by less refined drinking water systems.
For out-of-the-way convenience, Hydrefiner drinking water systems deliver a continuous supply of clean, fresh water from right under your sink. Utilizing a compressed carbon-block filter, the Hydrefiner eliminates bad tastes and odors from home drinking water.
RainSoft of Austin
11525 Stonehollow Drive
Suite 250
Austin, TX 78758
Suite 250
Austin, TX 78758
Phone: (512) 837-2488
or locate a RainSoft Dealer near you.
To read what others in your area are saying about RainSoft, check out RainSoft Reviews.
Thursday, August 30, 2012
Water (without Pollutants) Essential for Health
Water: The most important ‘nutrient’ for health, vitality, longevity and fat loss
Posted: Wednesday, August 29, 2012 10:49 am | Updated: 11:50 am, Tue Aug 28, 2012.
By Paula Owens Special to AFN
Water is one of the most important nutrients and often overlooked for detoxification, losing body fat, and optimal health. Your body is approximately 70 percent water, your brain tissue approximately 75 percent water, and your blood is 83 percent water.
Many people are chronically dehydrated and consume a majority of their calories from sugary, caffeinated beverages. You can become dehydrated from an intense workout, excessive sweating, too much alcohol consumption, working outdoors in the heat, use of OTC drugs, when you’re sick (disease, diarrhea, vomiting), starvation, or just not consuming enough water.
Symptoms of dehydration include fatigue, poor concentration, headaches, low back pain, constipation, Charley horses and dry skin.
A few benefits of water are:
• Helps lower elevated cholesterol
• Weight maintenance aiding with fat loss
• Eliminates waste and flushes out toxins
• Central nervous system and brain function
• Regulates body temperature
• Transport nutrients
• Lowers cortisol
• Boosts metabolism
• Lubricates your spine, bones, joints and muscles
• Stimulates digestion
Before meals, enjoy a cup or two of water with the fresh juice from a lemon or lime. Doing so creates an alkaline environment and is helpful for digestion. In a study, those who drank two cups of water before each meal lost an average of 5 pounds more weight over a 12-week calorie controlled diet than those who followed the same diet but did not drink the water.
To avoid BPA and other chemicals from water in plastic bottles, store your water in a glass bottles. Better yet, consider installing a reverse osmosis water filtration system in your home to filter your water from impurities such as fluoride, contaminants, and chemicals.
Ten popular U.S. bottled water brands contain mixtures of 38 different pollutants, including bacteria, fertilizer, Tylenol and industrial chemicals, some at levels no better than tap water, according to laboratory tests recently conducted by Environmental Working Group (EWG).
The bottle water industry has also contributed to one of the biggest environmental problems facing the world today. Only one-fifth of the bottles produced by the industry are recycled. The remaining four-fifths pile up at landfills, litter our neighborhoods and foul our oceans.
RainSoft Water Systems
Our drinking water systems provide bottled water quality straight from the faucet. Ultrefiner RO drinking water systems are our premier reverse osmosis systems that utilize advanced technology for better tasting, cleaner water. Hydrefiner drinking water systems are installed under your kitchen sink and use a compressed carbon block filter to better treat and filter bad tastes and odors from your drinking water.
RainSoft of Austin
11525 Stonehollow Drive
Suite 250
Austin, TX 78758
Suite 250
Austin, TX 78758
Phone: (512) 837-2488
Or locate a RainSoft Dealer near you
Thursday, August 9, 2012
Worried About What's in Your Water? How to Keep Your Water Safe
Clean Safe Water is the True Staff of Life
By Janice Nath | Livinggreenmag.com
Push aside bread: Water is the true “staff of life.”
Water,
which carries oxygen to our body’s cells, makes up more than half of
our body weight and we can’t live for more than a few days without it.
Our bodies don’t get water just from drinking water alone as any fluids
we drink contain water as well as certain foods (think juicy peaches or
ripe tomatoes). Consuming pure, fresh, clean water is vital for our
good health.
How can we ensure that our drinking water is safe?
In
America, we have scientists and government regulators committed to
detecting, observing and regulating potential contaminants in our
water. However, the toll of time can result in a system that may wear
out as well as inadvertent mistakes that can happen. When the system
breaks down, we run the risk of toxic chemicals that can find their way
into the ground’s surface and into our tap water.
To
ensure our best health, we do need to find out if there are any
contaminates in our water and what their concentration levels are and if
they are contaminants that potentially pose health risks. The United
States Environmental Protection Agency, http://water.epa.gov/drink/index.cfm, is a great resource to learn more about the safety of the ground water and drinking water in your region.
Central
North Pacific Ocean’s Pacific Trash Vortex, also known as the Great
Pacific Garbage Patch, hosts plastics, sludge and other debris trapped
by currents. The vulnerability of the world’s water to contamination
and pollution is part of our 21s t century reality and we must all play
the first line of defense in ensuring our water is clean and contaminant
free. As a working mother and a concerned San Diego citizen, here are
my tips on health and drinking water safety:
- Avoid Plastic Water Bottles – Besides taking a toll on the environment by adding to our landfills, the plastic from plastic water bottles, particularly when warmed up, can leak into our drinking water. A study published in the “Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry” by Dr. X.L. Cao noted “significant migration of BPA, or bisphenol-A, especially in hot conditions.”
- Ditch the Office Water Cooler – In addition to the physical strength needed to hoist up a new water cooler bottle into the tank, there is also a major health hazard for offices that fail to regularly clean and disinfect the tank. A Tufts University research study on water coolers found that, “organisms from each new bottle of water adhere to a cooler’s reservoir–the ‘well’ in which the bottle sits – and also to its hot and cold water spigots, accumulating over time and thereby boosting the bacterial count of any water that passes through on the way to a cup or glass.”
- Investigate Faucet Filters – If the tap water doesn’t taste appealing and there are concerns about heavy metals, chlorine or other contaminants in the water supply, water filters used in a pitcher or attached to the faucet can be a viable option. Not every filter type eliminates every type of contaminant. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) requires that community water systems provide customers with an annual water quality report. These Consumer Confidence Reports provide information about the quality of the drinking water supply. Once your review this report, you can assess what contaminants may be in play and which filter works best to address it.
The City of San Diego issues a Drinking Water Quality Report every year on July 1st.
This report, which generally arrives with your water invoice, includes
important information about the water we drink. For San Diego and other
cities nationwide, you can also request a copy of your area water
quality report from your water company or visit the Environmental
Protection Agency at www.epa.gov.
Invest in a testing kit and test your water both at home and in the
office. These samples can be submitted to laboratories for analysis.
The safety of our drinking water should never be taken for granted and
we should do everything we can to ensure our liquid “staff of life” is
clean and fresh from bio-contaminants.
The RainSoft Water Difference
RainSoft drinking water systems are a simple, cost-effective solution to providing cleaner, better tasting water right from the tap. And don't forget environmentally friendly! With home water filtration systems from RainSoft, you can get bottled-water quality water, without the bottle. Our premium drinking water systems include:
Ultrefiner II Premium Drinking Water System - advanced home water filtration systems that deliver highly polished "ingredient water" for all kitchen uses.
Hydrefiner Water Filtration Systems - a compressed carbon block filters out bad tastes and odors and reduces harmful contaminants.
RainSoft of Austin
11525 Stonehollow Drive
Suite 250
Austin, TX 78758
Suite 250
Austin, TX 78758
Phone: (512) 837-2488
www.rainsoftofaustintx.com
Or Find Your Local RainSoft Dealer
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