What Is Hard Water: Causes, Concerns And Courses Of Action

If you are wondering “What is hard water?” you are not alone. Many people are aware they have hard water in their homes but are not quite sure what it means. Hard water does not mean a block of ice, by the way! It’s a specific type of water and is very prevalent as a rural water supply. It is estimated that 85% of Americans have a hard water supply.

What Exactly Is Hard Water

Hard water is water that contains particles of dissolved magnesium and calcium. These “hardness minerals” can cause several problems if they are in a water supply. Hard water is usually found from wells or cisterns; however, it can be found in some municipal water supplies as well.

What Are the Concerns About Hard Water?

Hard water can pose many problems for homeowners and municipalities alike. The calcium and magnesium found in hard water will form a deposit called scale. The scale builds up in plumbing pipes, appliances, and hot water heaters. The presence of scale can dramatically reduce the efficiency of these appliances. It can also cause significant plumbing problems, as it reduces the amount of water that can flow through the pipes. Hot water heaters are especially susceptible to hard water. Over time, the scale can build up so much inside the water heaters that they are unable to heat the water at all. Replacement is the only solution.

Are There Any Hard Water Solutions?

There are solutions for hard water. Hard water softeners are most effective in cleaning hard water. These water softeners remove calcium and magnesium from hard water. While some of these softeners are more effective than others, they all will help somewhat. Some will require regular maintenance, such as a new filter monthly. Others require only minimal upkeep.

Is Hard Water Removal Best For Me?

Hard water can affect other areas in your life besides just your plumbing or appliances. It also has an effect on your hair and your skin. Removing hard water is best for your home and your family’s health. Hard water will also cause much worse soap scum and staining in toilets, sinks, and tubs than soft water. Often a strong chemical agent is needed to remove these stains.

What is Soft Water?

Soft water can occur naturally or it is the water left over after the calcium and the magnesium has been removed from hard water. Soft water will require significantly less soap than water that is hard. Soft water will also make your hair and skins softer as well. Some homes have a natural source of soft water.

A Final Thought

Hard water can cause a lot of costly repairs for homeowners. A good water softener system can help reduce these repair costs and provide a better quality of water for you and your family. Then you won’t have to ask, “What is hard water?”