Do Magnetic Water Softeners Work? The Science Says No

What they claim

Magnetic water softeners (also called electronic descalers or magnetic water treatment devices) claim to alter the behavior of dissolved minerals by passing water through a magnetic or electromagnetic field. The claim is that this prevents scale formation without chemicals, salt, or waste water. They cost $30-200 and attach to the outside of your pipes.

What the science says

Multiple peer-reviewed studies (including a comprehensive 2001 USDA-funded review) have found no consistent, reproducible evidence that magnetic treatment reduces scale formation in controlled conditions. The few positive studies had significant methodological flaws. No magnetic device has received NSF certification for softening or scale reduction.

Why they sell anyway

Low price, zero maintenance, and no plumbing changes make them appealing. Confirmation bias plays a role: once you spend money, you look for evidence it works. If you need real scale prevention, TAC conditioners are the zero-salt option with actual third-party testing. If you need real softening, ion exchange softeners are the proven technology.