Since over 85% of American homes are located in areas with hard water, there’s a good chance that you’ve been dealing with, or have already overcome, some hard water woes. Hard water damages happen quite frequently, so be on the lookout.
What exactly is hard water? Simply put, it’s water that contains high levels of minerals, typically calcium and magnesium. While some extra minerals may not seem like a big deal, they can cause big problems. For example, hard water damages plumbing, makes cleaning more difficult, and can even be harmful to your skin and hair.
How to Know If You Have Hard Water
Most people know they have hard water simply because there’s evidence of it everywhere. Here are some of the most common signs of hard water:
- Water spots on dishes and glassware
- Mineral buildup on drains
- Soap scum and buildup on showers, tubs, toilets, and fixtures
- Dry, brittle hair
- Itchy, dry skin
- Reduced water pressure
- Dull and dingy white linens and clothing
If you suspect that you have hard water but you’re not 100% sure, a water test is the best way to find out. You can also look at the water hardness map below and see how your geographical area is classified in terms of soft, slightly hard, moderately hard, hard, and very hard water.
How Hard Water Damages Plumbing
Unfortunately, the excess minerals in hard water don’t just make unsightly stains that are annoying to see or clean. They also create another problem: hard water damages plumbing and water-using appliances.
The same mineral buildup you notice on your fixtures can also happen inside pipes and other areas that you can’t see. You’ll notice its effects, however, with low water pressure or clogged pipes.
Appliances that use water, such as dishwashers and water heaters, are also affected by hard water. The mineral buildup causes them to have to work harder to do their job, making them less efficient to run. What that means for you is a higher energy bill and shortened appliance life. The bottom line is that hard water damages your home in more ways than one, and it can also cost you a significant amount of money over time.
Hard Water Solutions: Prevent Hard Water Damage to Your Plumbing and More
Fortunately, you don’t have to continue living with all the negative effects of hard water if you’re simply willing to do something about it. At Palm Springs Water Systems, we offer a variety of hard water solutions that could be perfect for your home or business.
For most people, installing a residential or commercial water softener is the top choice for dealing with hard water worries. Since a softener treats water at its point of entry into your home or business, all of the water you use will help prevent hard water damage to your plumbing. Plus, without all those excess minerals, you’ll enjoy better-tasting water and soft water that’s great for your skin and hair.
We recommend our soft water delivery service if you don’t want to worry about purchasing or maintaining a water softener. We deliver soft water right to your door at a predetermined schedule based on your personal usage. There’s no electricity, drain, or salt required and we do all the work – it’s the ultimate hard water solution!
To learn more about our water treatment products or soft water solutions, simply contact us today. We’ll help you find the best option for your specific situation and water treatment needs.
