The Hard Facts on Hard Water
Texas has some of the hardest water in the nation. Hard water contains high levels of calcium, magnesium, lime and other minerals.
Fun Fact: These minerals can have potential health benefits and generally taste better.
But did you know, although it might be tasty, hard water has the potential to cause damage to your home's plumbing system.
5 Signs you may have Hard Water
- Mineral Buildup Around Faucets- If the surface around your kitchen and bathroom faucets develop a white film that is difficult to scrub this can be a sign your water is hard.
- Slow-Flushing Toilets- Mineral deposits will form on any surface that comes into regular contact with hard water including toilets. Signs the hard water is affecting your toilet can be corrosion of the internal mechanism, back ups or clogs, reduced water flow and slow flushing.
- Spotty Glasses or Dishes- No matter how much rinse aid you add to your dishwasher, your glasses, dishes and flatware will end up with cloudy spots if you have hard water.
- Shower Head Pressure Issues- Shower heads are often one of the first fixtures that will be affected by hard water. The tiny holes that spray the water are prone to clogging, causing water to trickle or spray at weird angles
Water Softener as a solution
Just because you have hard water does not mean you have to live with it.
Water softeners can help prolong the life of appliances, pipes, and drains because the minerals that cause build up are removed.
Water softeners can be installed on the main water supply line that feeds the entire house minus the irrigation system. Water softeners work by filtering out minerals and replacing them with sodium. The sodium helps soap dissolve and rinse away with ease.
If you're interested in installing/replacing a water softener it is important to contact a professional plumber to help evaluate your home's water condition (which can involve testing your water) and identify the appropriate size to properly service your home.
