What Is Hard Water?
Water can have varying levels of minerals dissolved in it. Water that doesn’t have many dissolved minerals in it is referred to as soft water, while water that contains a high dissolved mineral content (typically expressed in terms of parts per million or grains per gallon) is called hard water.
Hard water can cause a variety of problems and many find that water softener installation is a worthwhile project that pays significant dividends.
Signs Indicating That a Home Has Hard Water
Many homeowners struggle with the problems caused by hard water without realizing that the mineral content of their water is to blame. For example, dry hair and skin is one of the most common signs of hard water, as the excess mineral content can strip away the oils that keep hair and skin soft. Another common problem homeowners notice is the presence of spots on their plates, cups, and silverware after being washed.
Other problems attributable to hard water include stains and deposits on bathroom fixtures and scale buildup in water pipes. At times, some people also notice that their clothes become faded and wear out prematurely when washed in hard water.
It is possible to have the water in a home tested to determine how hard it is, but most homeowners find that these signs provide all of the proof they need.
How Does a Whole House Water Softener Work?
A water softener system works by exchanging the minerals that cause most hard-water problems–primarily calcium and magnesium–for other minerals, which do not cause problems–typically potassium or sodium “salts.” When water passes through the water softening system reservoir, the minerals contained in the water become attracted to small beads. The calcium and magnesium ions stick to the beads and remain behind in the reservoir, while the sodium or potassium salts take their place.
Periodically, water softener systems must be flushed to remove the calcium and magnesium.
The Benefits of a Whole Home Water Softener
Homeowners typically notice a litany of benefits after installing a water softener.
Because water softening technology removes the calcium and magnesium from water, things like scale buildup in the home’s pipes stop happening. Clothing stops becoming faded and worn out prematurely. They also notice fewer (if any) spots on dishes after they’ve been washed, and they no longer notice bathroom fixtures becoming stained.
In fact, water softeners also help to protect many home appliances. Once the water no longer carries harmful minerals, things like pipes, plumbing fixtures, and water-using appliances start to function better and last longer.
But many of the most obvious benefits relate to the ways homeowners directly interact with the water. Many notice that their hair no longer feels dry after using soft water to wash it. Most also notice that their skin feels softer after water-softening technology has been installed. Many people even find that water-softening systems help make the water taste better.
Call About Plumbing Inc. Today!
With straightforward pricing and a customer satisfaction guarantee, About Plumbing Inc. has quickly become the leading plumbing service provider in the Jefferson County area. In business since 2016, About Plumbing Inc. only employs background-checked, drug-tested employees so that homeowners can feel safe and confident. Contact them today for reliable plumbing service in Jefferson County, MO.
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