What Is Hard Water?
When it comes to water usage in modern homes, some of the qualities of water can be detrimental. Hard water describes hard water with high levels of minerals due to the tendency of water to dissolve many minerals that it comes into contact with. As water goes through the water cycle, it comes into contact with geological formations high in minerals that easily dissolve in the water.
When water is purified for human consumption, the minerals that contribute to hardness remain present because they are both costly and challenging to eliminate on a large scale. However, on a household level, these hard water minerals can be removed by installing a water softener.
Signs of Hard Water
Hard water can cause many issues and complications. Water tests are an easy way to determine hardness, but there are several signs that indicate hard water, such as:
- Dry, dull hair
- Dry, itchy skin
- Spotted glasses and dishes after washing
- Stains and mineral deposits on plumbing fixtures
- Faded clothing
- Clogging and water pressure issues
How Do Water Softeners Work?
Water softeners work to remove the minerals that contribute to water hardness. Calcium and magnesium are minerals that influence hardness and are easily removed in whole-home water softening systems.
A water softener removes minerals by allowing incoming hard water to run over a bed of natural mineral resin. The resin tends to grab ions like calcium and magnesium. Over time, the bed will become saturated with hardness, and the water softener will refresh itself automatically by being backflushed with a high sodium brine solution. The cycle then starts again. Generally, the only effort the homeowner needs is to add a bag of softener salt to the brine tank periodically.
Benefits of Whole-Home Water Softeners
The struggle is obvious for people who have to deal with hard water. It can be hard for those who are only dealing with moderate hardness to fathom how much better their water could be. Soft water has much more dissolving capacity than hard water because it isn’t partially saturated with minerals. This allows the soft water to dissolve soap and grime so everything washes cleaner with less residue, leading to healthy skin and hair, cleaner dishes, and brighter clothing.
While the benefits listed above may seem like small luxuries, water softeners are also beneficial for home plumbing and appliances. A whole-home water softener reduces mineral buildup in piping and appliances, so they last longer and are more efficient. Homes with whole-home water softeners will likely need fewer plumbing repairs, making them an easy and effective way to protect the plumbing.
About Bud's Plumbing & Repair Service
Bud's Plumbing & Repair Service can help homeowners improve their water quality with water softener installation. With hassle-free scheduling, helpful technicians, and great communication, they make the process easy and stress-free. Water softeners and water filters are an effective way to improve drinking water and keep the family safe from poor water quality. Call today for water softener installation in Evansville, IN.
