Consumer Information

The MWQA assists consumers by providing information about water quality alternatives. Consumer questions are answered by the MWQA office daily. In addition, educational brochures and pamphlets are available along with a list of MWQA members throughout the state.

If you are a consumer looking to purchase a water conditioning system, contact the MWQA for information about different types of systems. And remember to utilize MWQA members when making your purchase or rental decision. They abide by a Code of Ethics promoted by the national Water Quality Association and are here to help you with your decision.

Choosing a member of the MWQA gives you the following advantages:

  • Professional that is certified by the National WQA or has had ample experience in the industry.  WQA has several certification levels and opportunities. 
  • Has a contractor’s license, a city business license, and is licensed by the State.
  • Is usually a part of the local business community with memberships in such organizations as the Chamber of Commerce or Better Business Bureau
  • Is a member in good standing with the Minnesota Water Quality Association (MWQA) and in most cases also the National Water Quality Association (WQA)
  • Can provide you with product warranty information
  • Can provide the means to determine that your equipment is operating properly
  • Will provide instructions on the care of your equipment and how to get maintenance

Find a list of MWQA members in good standing by clicking here. For questions or clarifications please feel free to consult an Officer and/or Board Of Directors member.

Chloride – What is it and Why Does it Matter?

Just exactly what is chloride, and why does it matter? Find out here!

MWQA is partnering with various governmental agencies to help get the word out about optimizing softeners to reduce chloride discharge. If you have a time-clock type softener that regenerates on a set schedule, talk to your water treatment dealer about upgrading to an on-demand softener that only regenerates when necessary. You will save money in both water and salt costs! Contact the MWQA if you have questions about softener optimization.

Manganese and Iron Removal Using Softeners

According to a website published by the Penn State Extension’s College of Agricultural Sciences, “conventional water softeners are sometimes effective for removing iron and small amounts of manganese. Water softeners are typically used to remove calcium and magnesium hardness in water by an exchange process. The calcium and magnesium are removed from the water and sodium is added in their place. Iron and manganese removal is accomplished in the same way by exchanging the iron and manganese for sodium. The iron and manganese are then removed from the softener resin bed through backwashing and regeneration.” Read more about manganese removal here.