http://www.equinox-products.com/HardnessMaster.htmThe HardnessMaster™ advanced MaxConditioning™ technology produces a complex oscillating electric field within the water pipe (refer to pictures above and below) which changes continuously in frequency and amplitude. This changes the property of the hardness minerals so they stay in solution and not form scale in pipes, water heater, on fixtures and bath walls, etc. The HardnessMaster™ utilizes its advanced MaxConditioning™ technology to effectively soften (or condition) source water containing up to 50 grains per gallon (or 50 gpg or 855 mg/L or 855 ppm) of water hardness. PLEASE NOTE: The Hardness Master works effectively with Copper, Plastic, PVC, CPVC, PEX, Rubber, Lead, and Steel or Galvanized Steel pipes.