Understanding Hard Water and Water Softeners
Water in the majority of U.S. households is hard water. Hard water is water with high mineral content, such as calcium and magnesium. While the minerals in hard water are not dangerous to consume, they can have many negative effects on a household. This post will share signs of hard water indicating a water softener installation may be needed, what water softeners do, and the benefits of water softeners.
Signs of Hard Water
There are many signs that can signal a home has hard water. These can include:
- Hair is dull and dingy since hard water minerals can make it more difficult to rinse shampoo and conditioner
- Skin is dry and itchy because hard water can’t rinse away soap residues as well
- Clothing and fabrics fade and wear out quicker being washed in hard water
- Dishes and silverware have white spots and may appear cloudy after being washed in hard water
- Plumbing suffers from mineral scale that can build up and cause clogs and low water pressure
- Mineral scale deposits build up on plumbing fixtures
What Does a Water Softener Do?
Softening water, that is, removing hard water minerals like calcium and magnesium, can be done by installing a water softener. The process occurs as incoming water flows through a tank of natural resin beads that exchange hard water minerals for sodium or potassium ions.
The softened water is then distributed normally throughout the home. When the water softener enters a regeneration cycle, brine is flushed through the resin tank to wash away the minerals and replenish the salt ions to refresh the resin and start the process over again.
Benefits of Water Softeners
A whole-home water softener will soften all the water entering the home, allowing every fixture and appliance to have softened water, providing the most benefits for a household. With softened water, homeowners will notice benefits like:
- Brighter, longer-lasting clothing
- Fewer plumbing problems
- Better water pressure
- Longer-lasting appliances like washing machines, dishwashers, and coffee makers
- Better energy efficiency from water-using appliances and cost savings
- More hydrated and healthier hair and skin
- Cleaner-looking dishes after going through the dishwasher
- Less time spent cleaning mineral scale deposits and limescale
About Plumb Tite Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Drains
Plumb Tite Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Drains is a family-owned and operated company serving the Independence, KY, area. They offer flat rate prices and the latest technology. Call them for water softener installation and services in Independence, KY.