Frequently asked questions.

Scaling refers to the formation of encrusting calcium carbonate (and, to a lesser extent, magnesium carbonate). Calcium carbonate or limestone, (chemical formula CaCO₃) can only be formed if certain conditions are met. As a result, the reaction, visualized in the formula below, moves to the right (scaling) or stays to the left (lime neutralization) depending on these conditions.

To have scaling (limescale), you need :

1. a sufficiently high concentration of the two reagents: Ca²⁺ and HCO₃ ^2- and
2. low CO₂ concentration

Lime is not dissolved in water (see chemical formula). As a result, these waters, known as hard waters,will tend to produce deposits giving rise to the formation of crystals at the solid-liquid interface. This calcareous water causes scaling inthepipes. Conversely, if the reagents Ca₂⁺ and HCO₃ ^2-arein low concentration in the water or thewater is rich in CO₂, the reaction shifts to the left and will tend to dissolve the limestone . The limestone is replaced by calcium bicarbonate. CO₂ prevents limestone formation.

Hard tap water contains high levels of calcium ions (Ca²⁺). To prevent the formation of limestone, CaCO₃or dissolve it, as explained in the previous paragraph, you need to increase the concentration of CO₂. In fact, the reaction moves to the left and will tend to dissolve the limestone. The‘Hydrokube is based on this principle of‘injection of CO₂. Calcium bicarbonate is unique in that itonly exist in a dissolved state inwater! Equilibrium is maintained by CO ₂ mixed with water. Calcium (and magnesium) are always present in water (see water hardness measurement).

Conclusion

The CO₂. This precept is entirely consistent with the chemistry of water and the calco-carbonic reactions that occur in it. It is therefore logical that such a process should prevent the formation of scale in sanitary installations for both cold and hot water. This treatment has the advantage of being highly ecological, economical and keeps tap water safe to drink.

Limestone is a sedimentary rock. They are often white in color and leave a powdery residue to the touch.

They are composed mainly of calcium carbonate (chemical formula: CaCO₃) but also of a small amount of magnesium carbonate (MgCO₃). Theyare naturally present in distributed water. They are good for you and necessary for your health.

But under certain conditions (temperature, catalysts, crystallization nuclei, …), calcium carbonates precipitate and crystallize. “”This is what is commonly called “limescale” or “scale”.

When calcium carbonates crystallize, they form hard, compact residues (calcite) or appear asneedles (aragonite). For example, the former covers “”water heaters (boilers) with a white or slightly colored deposit, and the latter gives the sensation of tingling and tightening of the skin.

So the dilemma is to keep these calcium and magnesium carbonates, which are good for your health, but avoid their drawbacks in the home. The solution is to simply use a CO₂ anti-scale device. Want more information about Hydrokube? Hydrokube is a perfectly adapted response to environmental concerns, as well as well-being and comfort. It will neutralize the limescale in hard water, guaranteeing good water from your tap, as well as saving you money and having a positive impact on the environment.

Water hardness is the concentration of magnesium and calciuminwater.The concentration ismeasuredby what is known as the hydrotimetric titre (TH). The measurement of this water hardness is expressed either in French degrees and is represented by the symbol °f or °fH. Note that 1 °f corresponds to 10 mg/l of calcium carbonate.

When water is said to be “hard”,this means it contains high levels of magnesium and calcium salts. These salts crystallize to form hard, compact residues, commonly known as “limestone” or “tartar”.

• 0 to 8°f: very soft water
• 8 to 15 °f: soft water
• 15 to 30°f: moderately hard water
• Water over 30°f: very hard water

Water with a hardness of 30°f therefore contains 300 mg/l of calcium carbonate or limestone!

Depending on the region, water has different limescale levels. Indeed, in part of the Belgian Ardennes the water is naturally soft, just like in the Kempen, whereas in the rest of Belgium, the water tends to be very hard!

There’s a link, of course. To understand the link, you first need to understand what limestone is.

Limescale “”is calcium carbonate (CaCO₃) to which magnesium carbonate (MgCO₃) is added. In chemical terms, “”it’s a mixture of calcium ions (Ca++) and carbonate ions with carbon dioxide (CO-). The final molecule is thus composed of “”calcium ions (positively charged) and carbonate ions (negatively charged) to form CaCO₃. Magnesium is present in smaller quantities and, for simplicity’s sake, is often omitted from explanations.

Hardness therefore corresponds to the calcium and magnesium content of ‘water. In tap water,there is generally a lot of calcium and little CO
₂
. Water will be hard if it contains a lot of carbonate and can scale up your home.

But water can be hard without scaling! That’s right, if l‘water is rich in CO₂it will tend to dissolve the limescale to transform it into bicarbonate. In this case, the hardness measurement of “”the water will not be representative of the scaling nature of the water! It will simply be “”an indication of the presence of calcium and magnesium in the water.

Salt softener operation

This was the very first solution, invented over 80 years ago. Treatment involves replacing calcium and magnesium with sodium. Therefore, calcium carbonate CaCO
₃
becomes sodium carbonate NaCO
₃
. Therefore, to lower the hardness from 37°f to 12°f, there will be 212.5 mg/l of sodium in your water (2.12 grams/l).

It’s easy to see why you need to be careful with a salt water softener, not only for health reasons, but also to prevent metal corrosion.

To avoid bacterial proliferation, the resin must be regenerated regularly. What’s more, salt must be stored in hygienic conditions and not decanted by hand. In addition, the brine tank must be disinfected with a specific product at least once a year. Finally, the unit must be connectedtothe drain.

It’s the solution that’s meeting with growing success. Not only is this solution much more economical to use, but it’s also truly respectful of the environment and very simple to use. All you have to do is plan to change the CO
₂
cylinder about once a year, or after 120 m
³
consumed. CO₂ injection offers several advantages. First and foremost, this solution effectively treats limescale. Furthermore, treatment by injection of CO₂ preserves calcium and magnesium in “”water. Water rich in calcium and magnesium covers one-third of human calcium and magnesium needs. Calcium not only protects against cardiovascular disease, but also helps solidify bones. It’s necessary for muscle function, the blood clotting process, etc. So we’re often too hard on limescale.

You have encrusted white marks on the “sink, on and around taps, on shower screens, shower water jets spray sideways, your skin is irritated, you use conditioners to soften your hair, soaps don”t lather, laundry is hard and rough, you need to change the “water heater (boiler) sooner than expected,… These are all examples that indicate your water contains a lot of limescale, scale (”> 20°F).

Limescale, scale, makes your water hard and manifests as white deposits, dries out your skin, dulls your surfaces, blocks your taps, but what you don‘t see is that it slowly clogs your pipes and covers water heaters (1 mm/year). It is therefore important to act not only for your comfort but also to avoid significant and unnecessary expenses.

The solution is to install a water softener to treat all the ‘water in the house. How does theHydrokubesolve your limescale problems?

If you notice whitish marks in the kettle, on dishes and sanitary equipment, if soap lathers little, your skin is dry after a shower, laundry remains rough or hard, … then your water is most likely hard.

In Belgium, most tapwateris hard. This degree can vary considerably depending on the location. You can consult online the results of official analyses carried out by water distributors such as Vivaqua, IBWE, De Watergroep or on your water bill.

It is also possible to find kits designed to measure water hardness. These kits are available in aquarium and DIY stores, or on the Internet.

CO2 water softeners are an increasingly popular and effective water treatment method. While some still turn to traditional salt models today, be aware that there is a new generation of devices using CO2 injection. Moreover, they are environmentally friendly, economical, and just as, if not more effective than traditional water softeners. (See the explanation in ‘How can CO₂ help combat limescale?‘).

The Hydrokube injects a small amount of CO2 proportional to water consumption.

The CO2 injected into your water circuit and pipes then dissolves the limescale in the water and transforms it into calcium bicarbonate, which is perfectly soluble in water.

Calcium bicarbonate is used in food asanacidity regulator and stabilizer, and in medicine to regulate heart pressure.

CO2 injection offers you several advantages:

First of all, this solution effectively treats limescale. Furthermore, the treatment by CO2 injection preserves calcium and magnesium in the water.

Water rich in calcium and magnesium covers one-third of human calcium and magnesium needs. Calcium not only protects against cardiovascular disease, but also helps build strong bones. It’s necessary for muscle function, the blood clotting process… So we’re often too hard on limescale.

Limescale is that white, encrusted deposit that can be seen on taps and shower doors once the drops of water have dried.

Because of this tartar :

– Appliances consume more energy (10% extra consumption per millimetre of limescale). Overheating causes their electrical resistance to break prematurely.

– Pipes lose water pressure at the tap. Showerheads and faucet aerators clog up. Chrome and sanitaryware coverings are quickly damaged by limescale or aggressive cleaning products. The water pressure safetydeviceon the boiler or toiletflushleaks and lets water run continuously.

• Skin becomes dry and causes eczema. Hair becomes rough.
• Linen is hard after washing and wears out more quickly.
• Harsh descaling products or vinegar are needed to remove it.

Thanks to this CO2 water treatment, the faucet aerators, shower head, toilet valve, hot water tank, etc. will no longer scale up. You’ll no longer have to clean away encrustinglimescale. You’ll still have residues other than limescale, such as soap deposits and calcium bicarbonate (a fine white powder that can be removed with a damp cloth/sponge). Of course, you’ll still have to clean your bathroom, but you won’t have to use any anti-scale products.

Yes. The CO
₂
system will dissolve existing limescale in the pipes. In addition, Hydrokube Plus and Comfort models feature a Boost Clean function that temporarily overdoses the CO
₂
to eliminate any scale build-up in the pipes, thus resolving problems of low flow.

Of course, it will protect the boiler’s electrical resistance by preventing scale build-up. One millimeter of limestone requires 10% more energy to reach the optimum temperature (usually between 50 and 60 degrees). It’s just as effective for a heat pump.

Nothing. When you leave for an extended period, the water in your home (tank, hot water, pipes, etc.) will remain with the treatment carried out during the subsequent water intake. There will be no reversal of the treatment in your pressurized water installations during a period without use.

Yes, once the limestone has been transformed into bicarbonate, the latter retains its properties regardless of the length of the installation.

Unlike a saltwatersoftener, the Hydrokube does not remove calcium (and magnesium) from the water and replace it with salt. Thanks to the injection of CO
₂
into the water, limestone is transformed into calcium bicarbonate, which does not exist in solid form. It is dissolved in water. The calcium level is the same, but there is no limescale in the water. Water hardness remains unchanged.

Yes, but without consequences. The Hydrokube process dissolves limescale into non-incrusting bicarbonate. A simple wipe will remove any residual traces.

Yes, and it will be all the more effective, unless the manufacturer requires the use of demineralized water.

Yes, the water treated by the Hydrokube requires less washing and rinsing agent.

Of course! It will be all the better for it. The Hydrokube uses CO
₂
as used in sparkling water and beer bottles. Water retains all its minerals (calcium and magnesium) and will be enriched with bicarbonate, which aids digestion and relieves stomach ache. They guarantee our body’s equilibrium.

No, unlike salt softeners, there is no water loss or regeneration.

Hard water isn’t always pleasant. With the Hydrokube, you’ll be able to enjoy limescale-free water, perfect for a good cup of tea or coffee.

Yes. Limescale can cause skin and scalp irritation, itching and dermatological problems. Limescale is encrusting and will cover skin and hair with a veil that will dry them out. _CO2-enriched water increases rinsing power. You should see an improvement in your skin problems. These concerns will diminish over time. Hair and skin will be softer.

Yes 🙂

As the encrusting limescale is transformed into bicarbonate, 70 times more soluble in water, it will drain away with the rinse water , leaving your laundry softer.

No, unlike salt water softeners, there’s no need for a sewer connection. Another interesting saving compared to salt softeners.

Yes. We recommend maintaining the manufacturer’s recommended setting, which requires salt in the dishwasher. Or you can opt for “3 in 1” tablets if your water hardness is no greater than that prescribed by the “3 in 1” tablet manufacturer. In this case, you no longer use salt in the dishwasher.

Carbon dioxide is naturally present in small quantities in theatmosphere (ambient air). Its concentration is approximately 0.038% by volume. It is an odorless, colorless, non-flammable, and non-irritating gas; heavier than air, it accumulates on the ground.

The CO2 used with the Hydrokube is also the same gas as in carbonated drinks (sparkling water) or for beer pumps.

Although non-toxic, carbon dioxide can present risks. Above a certain concentration in the air, it can be dangerous. Theharmful effect on humans is that it reduces the oxygen content oftheair.

When a 10 kg carbon dioxide gas bottle empties instantly and completely in a cellar measuring 4 x 5 x 2.50m, it results in a CO2 concentration at ground level (CO2 is heavier than air) of 8.3m³ (13 l x 0.638m³/l). That’s about 41 cm from ground level and oxygen-free. If you lie down in this area, without oxygen, it can be dangerous. You have to stand, leave the door open and leave the room quickly, and the CO
₂
will quickly disperse. This extreme and unprecedented situation can occur when the valve on the bottle is deliberately broken with a hammer.

It is possible to install a CO2 detector as an option.

CO2 gas (carbon dioxide) exists naturally in air and water. It is,forexample, natively present in sparkling water. You will also find more information about CO2 in the FAQs.

The Hydrokube injects CO2 proportionally into your water circuit. It then dissolves the limescale in the water and transforms it into calcium bicarbonate, which is soluble in water. Your water is balanced and no longer scaling.

This calcium bicarbonate is used in food (E290) asanacidity regulator and stabilizer, and in medicine to regulate heart pressure.

Next, we will explain in more detail the treatment principle of the Hydrokube. For this, it is important to clarify what scaling means and what its formation mechanisms are. It’s not very complicated and it makes sense when you consider that everything is a matter of balance between the ions present in the water.

The Hydrokube CO2 water softener is installed at the beginning of your house’s water supply network (meter). It uses carbon dioxide(CO
₂
) in refillable bottles.

• L‘Hydrokube is fully automatic. The only thing to do is to exchange the CO
  ₂
  when empty.
• Treatment is proportional to‘water. It does not‘there’s no waste.
• CO₂ dissolves perfectly in‘and transforms limescale into bicarbonate.
• Bicarbonate is perfectly soluble in water.‘bicarbonate, which is perfectly soluble in water, is good for your health and safe in the home.
• Your water is soft and you‘the inconvenience of limescale.
• L‘of course remains safe to drink.

The CO2 injection technique has been used for over 30 years in industry and agronomy to remove limescale from water. In fact, a salt water softener would be disastrous for plants!

Driven by growing demand for CO
₂
for a variety of applications, CO
₂
cylinder distributors are now well distributed throughout the country and Europe. It has therefore been possible, for a few years now, to consider this solution also for softening the water in our homes.

Yes, the device operates autonomously. The only thing to do is to replace the CO
₂
bottle when it’s empty.

The Plus and Efficiency models are housed in a 24x20x12cm case.

The Comfort model fits into a 29x29x16cm case.

And the CO
₂
bottle is 125x14cm.

The Hydrokube can be installed in a kitchen cabinet by replacing the CO
₂
cylinder with a smaller model.

Yes, except for old lead pipes. You can therefore install it on all pipes in good condition, such as PVC, PER, multilayer, copper and galva.

Of course, the system fits into a space-saving enclosure; all you have to do is place a small bottle of CO
₂
.

Yes, but the Hydrokube won’t be necessary, just long enough to fill it. Just close the CO
₂
bottle when filling your pool, and reopen it at the end of the operation.

The negligible consumption is well below 0.1 kWh for an average water consumption of a family of 3-4 people (for 100m³ less than 1 EUR).

The Hydrokube is a Belgian product, designed, developed and built in Belgium.

Yes, the Hydrokube is programmed for CO2 injections proportional to the amount of water used. The injection is based on the water flow rate. The amount of CO
₂
will therefore be ideal for a single tap as well as for several open taps.

The CO2 cylinder is fitted with a high-pressure manometer, with a scale from 0 to 250.

The pointer on this dial indicates the state of the CO2 cylinder. When the needle reaches zero on this scale, it’s time to replace the cylinder.

It’s important to note that CO2 pressure with a full cylinder never exceeds 55 bar.

Full bottle	Empty bottle

No, a pressure gauge reading of 28 bar does not mean that the bottle is half-empty, but rather that it is almost completely empty. At a constant temperature, e.g. 20°C, the gas pressure in the cylinder is normally constant at around 45 bar on the pressure gauge.

The drop in pressure indicated by the manometer suggests that there is no longer any liquid phase in the bottle, indicating instead the presence of compressed gas. In this case, it is advisable to replace or refill the cylinder, as it is almost exhausted.

If the pressure of the liquefied CO2 drops from 45 bar to 35 bar, this may be due to a change in temperature. At constant temperature, the pressure of liquefied CO2 generally remains stable.

If the temperature drops, the pressure may also drop, which would explain the lower reading on the pressure gauge.

If the pressure drops below 35 bar, there’s almost no liquefied CO2 gas left. The bottle will have to be changed soon.

No real reason to be happy with higher pressure, or dissatisfied with lower pressure. As we have seen, this pressure varies with temperature.

That’s why CO2 extinguishers are weighed to determine their filling level, rather than using a pressure gauge.

The only way to know if your bottle is full is to use a scale, and of course to know the bottle’s empty weight.

No more CO
₂
and the water regains its original calcareous properties. It’s time to replace the bottle.

• CO
  ₂
  is used in the food sector for carbonated beverages (sparkling water, soda, beer), food packaging and cooling operations.
• It is bacteriostatic, i.e. it stops the growth of bacteria.
• It is non-flammable and an inert gas. It is non-corrosive, leaving no traces, odors or residues.
• Bottle storage temperature should ideally be between -30° and +35° C.
• CO2 consumption depends not only on the amount of water consumed, but also on the hardness of the water to be treated. You should count on 10 Kg of CO2 for a consumption of about 120m³ of water.
• A bottle of CO
  ₂
  bottle costs less than €50 incl. VAT.

The industrial sector is a major emitter of CO
₂
. To prevent it from being released into the atmosphere, this gas is recovered by specialized companies, filtered and bottled.

The CO2 water softener has been designed to treat limescale problems in water and prevent appliances, pipes, skin, laundry… from scaling up.

No, each CO2 injection is proportional to the amount of water used and is 10 times lower than that used in sparkling water bottles. The Hydrokube does not make your water sparkling and the pipes are without CO2 bubbles.

Carbon dioxide (CO
₂
) has many uses and is used in a wide variety of fields. Here are a few examples ofitsuse in the food, agronomy and medical sectors, among others:

• In sparkling water or soft drinks
• For beer pumps
• In the medical world, it is mixed with oxygen or gas.‘for respiratory stimulation
• To facilitate‘of fertilizers and substrates in agriculture
• In aquariums, it is essential for plants to thrive.
• In packaged goods, it reduces the use of preservatives
• In the pool, to naturally correct the balance of the‘water balance

With Hydrokube, we bring to your home a technology that has been in use for almost 35 years.

CO2 is produced during fermentation or comes from a sparkling mineral water source.

Indeed, carbon dioxide (CO2) is extracted from natural wells or captured during its production in fermentation processes (wine, beer), ammonia production, …

Industrial plants are used to treat and purify CO
₂
. After purification, the CO
₂
obtained is food-grade and of high purity to meet the most stringent requirements of the European standard (E290).

No. CO
₂
is used to make dry ice for fire extinguishers, so it’s safe and non-flammable.

No, CO
₂
is an inert, non-toxic gas. It is concentrated in bottles that also feature a safety valve.

CO

₂

is fungistatic and bacteriostatic. It retards the growth and reduces the rate of multiplication of aerobic bacteria and moulds.

Although CO
₂
is an inert, neutral gas, the cylinder must always be placed vertically in a naturally ventilated or mechanically ventilated room.

The Hydrokube is maintenance-free. The only thing to do will be to replace the CO
<sub>2

.</sub>

On the CO
₂
cylinder, the regulator has two dials. On the left-hand dial, closest to the bottle, when the needle is at zero, it’s time to change the bottle.

In Belgium and Luxembourg :

There are different CO
₂
 producers: mainly Ijsfabriek and Westfalen, who have an extensive network of distributors.

You can also order a replacement bottle from our e-shop by clicking here.

In Holland : there is a network of 60 distributors via www.hwts.nl.

In France :

There are over 400 suppliers of CO
₂
 suppliers in France, freely available to individuals via two networks https://vandb.fr/ or https://www.c10.fr/

In Switzerland :

there are also several suppliers such as www.pangas.ch, www.messer.ch (Gourmet C),

Yes, you can replace the bottle yourself. It‘s similar to replacing a gas cylinder on a stove, soit‘s easy. We can provide you with a guide to carry out the replacement yourself.

The main issue is the weight of the bottle. An empty bottle weighs around 18 kg, while a full bottle weighs around 28 kg.

You can also ask your installer-reseller to take care of this for you.

The left-hand dial (graduated up to 300 bar) indicates cylinder pressure. This pressure remains almost constant as long as the bottle is full. However, it varies slightly with room temperature (between 35 and 55 bar). When the cylinder is almost empty, the needle will drop below 30 bar and gradually move towards 0 bar. This will take about 3 weeks for standard consumption.

Yes. It is advisable to keep the factory setting recommended by the manufacturer, which requires the addition of salt.

It is also possible to use “3 in 1” tablets (see the water hardness specified by the tablet manufacturer). In this case, no more salt is needed.

It all depends on your consumption and the hardness of your water.

The average consumption of a 3-4 person family is around 100m³ per year. What a 10 Kg bottle can handle. You should therefore replace the bottle on average once a year.

If possible, installation should take place close to the water meter (usually in a garage or cellar). It can also be installed in a different location, the aim being to ensure that all taps in the home are treated. You’ll need a power outlet or an extension cord nearby.

The Hydrokube is very easy to install.

You can also use a Hydrokube-certified plumber/heating engineer to carry out the installation. (See also Our services). We’ll be happy to provide you with an initial all-inclusive budget estimate by filling in the contact form.

You can also install it yourself.

• We provide you with a detailed guide.
• We can also offer you fittings and accessories specific to your situation.

Yes, that’s one of the many advantages of CO
₂
. The exclusive Boost Clean function allows to temporarily and safely increase the CO2 rate and will have a curative action on encrusted limescale. Thanks to the Boost Clean function managed by the microcontroller, accumulated deposits, for example before the installation of the Hydrokube, will gradually dissolve. The Boost Clean will stop automatically without you having to think about it.

This function is also useful in case of late replacement of the empty CO2 bottle. There will be no treatment for several days. Boost Clean removes excess limescale from the system during this period.

No, there’s no maintenance required, which means significant annual savings compared to conventional treatment.

No wastewater connection is required. No water is wasted when using a Hydrokube.

Yes, the Hydrokube takes up very little space (from 24x20x12 cm). The CO
₂
bottle is available from 46 cm high and 6 cm in diameter.

To keep the indoor water distribution system at a potential equal to 0.

If the potential is different from 0, and you touch the water pipe, the current will try to reach the ground via your body, and this can be dangerous.