What Exactly Is Hard Water?
When people speak of hard and soft water, they’re talking about the mineral content of the water. Hard water has a higher mineral content, usually calcium and magnesium. This results from the water-absorbing minerals as it passes through mineral deposits in the ground. While it’s difficult to tell whether water is hard just by looking at it, there are some tell-tale signs left behind by hard water that homeowners can look for if they’re unsure.
Signs the Home Has Hard Water
When homeowners inquire about hard water, they're often concerned about its safety for drinking and bathing. While hard water is generally safe, other negative effects come with hard water in the home.
If the home dishes never seem completely clean, it could be because of hard water when dishes are left with visible water spots. No matter what kind of dishwashing liquid or manner of drying, it’s usually because the water dries but leaves a mineral residue on it. The same can be said for clothes — they often look worn, drab, and possibly even dirty.
Hard water affects more than just clothes and dishes. Skin and hair can also feel the effects, becoming dry and losing their luster. Lastly, it can leave a chalky residue in sinks, faucets, and around drains.
How Water Softeners Work
All water softeners work by extracting or neutralizing the minerals in hard water. This reduces the mineral content of the water and eliminates or lessens the negative effects of hard water. Whole-house water softeners are installed between the water meter and the point of entry to the home, allowing the entire plumbing system to benefit from the softener.
Water softeners differ in how they negate the water's high mineral content. The most common type uses salt and resin beads to “exchange” the sodium ions from the salt with the mineral ions in the hard water, thereby softening the water. A larger, dual-tank water softener could be the best option for larger homes or those with high water usage. Smaller water softeners can also be installed under sinks to soften water at a particular location in the home.
The Many Benefits of Whole Home Water Softeners
The biggest benefit of water softeners is that they work to eliminate the issues that come with hard water. No more dry skin and lusterless hair. No more faded clothes and never-clean dishes. Plus, there are added benefits to the plumbing system itself.
Mineral buildup can damage plumbing systems and appliances, severely lessening the lifespan of dishwashers, washing machines, and water pipes. However, with a whole-house water softener, homeowners can rest easy knowing that their plumbing systems and appliances are healthy and will remain so for as long as the softener is in use.
About Affordable Plumbing, Heating & Air
Affordable Plumbing, Heating & Air has served Fairhope, AL, since 1996. They provide expert, on-time service and no surprise pricing. Contact them today for water softener installation in Fairhope, AL.
