Hard water is found in more than 85% of the country, according to a US geological survey. You may recognize its presence in your white encrusted water faucets, spotty kitchen glassware, and even dull, filmy hair after taking a shower. But what makes the water hard, and why is it a problem?
When heated, calcium and magnesium in your water precipitate and encrust themselves onto items as “scale” or mineral deposits. Not only is this unsightly and hard to remove, it causes quite a few problems, which we’ve highlighted below.
- Hard water minerals can clog pipes and reduce water flow.
- Film and scale can accumulate on tile and bath/kitchen fixtures.
- An invisible soapy film can leave your skin feeling dry.
- Calcium deposits reduce the efficiency and shorten the life of water heaters.
- Reduced sudsing action can leave clothes looking gray and dingy.
- Harsh minerals reduce the life of clothes.
- Hard water can affect the taste of tea and coffee.
What Is the Solution?
A water softener works to soften water by removing the minerals that make it hard. Softened water prolongs the lifespan of your pipes and home appliances by protecting them from scale buildup and clogging. They do this by removing ions that are positively charged. Anti-scale systems them transform calcium ions into calcium crystals. These crystals are stable and can’t attach to pipes, surfaces, hardware, or any other fixtures. The crystals are so small that they are easily rinsed away by the water flow.
When you use a water softener system, you’ll notice shiner hair and healthier skin. You’ll also find it easier to do dishes and laundry. It is important to be aware that to be the most efficient, that water softeners must be maintained just like any other appliance. Water softeners use salt to break down the minerals that cause hard water, so the salt needs to be replaced from time to time.
If you are looking for a water softener system in Atlanta, GA, contact Quick Action Plumbers today.