DO YOU THINK YOUR HOME HAS HARD WATER?
Water is such a big part of everyday life. In fact, water and the plumbing system that cleans it and brings it into homes is often said to be essential for civilization. Without water-on-demand, life would be very different. But that doesn’t mean that the water that comes into the home is problem-free. If it’s hard water – water with a high amount of dissolved minerals – it can cause issues not only for those in the home but also for the plumbing system itself. Read on to find out what hard water does and how to deal with it.
VISUAL EVIDENCE
One way to tell if a home’s water is hard is to look at where it comes into contact with basins and faucets. Water faucets are usually the first indication that the water is hard because they’ll often have a buildup of limescale, which is often white-green in color. Cleaning this off the faucets often requires some serious elbow grease.
Another issue that comes along with hard water is soap scum left behind in showers and sinks stuck to the side of the tub. This happens because hard water has difficulty fully dissolving soap, which means it doesn’t rinse away easily. Those who find that they have to clean their shower more often than they should, might be dealing with hard water. This same issue leaves little white spots on dishes, no matter if they’ve been hand washed or run through the dishwasher.
HOW HARD WATER FEELS
Aside from being able to see the evidence of hard water, homeowners can also feel it. Since hard water prevents soap from dissolving fully and getting rinsed away, people often feel that their skin is dry and itchy after a hard water shower. Those with sensitive skin suffer the most, although it can affect those with all types of skin. The minerals in hard water can also take the luster out of hair, leaving it looking drab and dull.
But bathing isn’t the only thing affected by hard water. Those with this type of water also can feel the difference in their clothes. Just like the soap and shampoo in the shower, hard water can’t properly dissolve the laundry detergent. This often leaves clothes feeling brittle and scratchy. Plus, it can leave them looking as if they haven’t been cleaned – which they haven’t since the detergent hasn’t been able to do its job.
HOW HARD WATER EFFECTS PIPES
Although this evidence of hard water isn’t easy to see until it’s too late, it may be the most important. Over time, the minerals in the water tend to build up on the inside of pipes. When this happens, it can start to affect water pressure. And if the problem gets bad enough, the pipes will need to be replaced. Hard water can also clog up any appliances that deal with water in the home, such as the water heater, dishwasher, and washing machine.
The best way to deal with hard water is to install a water softener. These appliances neutralize the minerals in the water, which prevents the issues listed above. Those homeowners considering installing a water softener should always work with a professional plumber to avoid any problems and have the softener installed properly.
ABOUT SERVICE PLUMBING
Service Plumbing Inc has been serving Ocala, FL for over 40 years. They offer refreshingly honest answers and recommendations, upfront pricing, and plenty of options for homeowners. Call them today for questions about hard water services.
License #: CFC1426919