Water Quality

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Hard water issues

Hard water is formed when groundwater dissolves rocks and minerals releasing calcium and magnesium ions that cause water to be hard. These dissolved ions give hard water its characteristics.

Hard water interferes with all types of cleaning tasks. Cleaning problems arise when the cleaning agents do not fully remove dirt and grime. Over time, clothes washed in hard water may look dingy and feel harsh and scratchy. White clothing continually washed in hard water will gradually show a gray-ish tinge. Dishes and glassware washed in dishwashers using hard water may be spotted when dry. Hard water causes films on glass shower doors, walls, and bathtubs. Hair washed in hard water may feel sticky and look dull.

Soap curds or soap scum will form as regular soaps combine with dissolved calcium and magnesium. Soap scum is difficult to remove from sinks and appliances. 

Household appliance performance may be affected by hard water use. When heated, calcium carbonate and magnesium carbonate are removed from the water and produce a scale buildup in the hot water heater. A large scale build-up slows the heating process and requires more energy to heat water. Water heaters with large accumulations of mineral build-up will have shorter life spans.  Scale deposits also corrode and plug plumbing fixtures and accumulate in other appliances affecting their performance.

Treatment: Water softeners offer: 1) cleaner, softer feeling clothes; 2) longer life of applicances including washing machine, dishwasher, and water heater; 3) less use of household leaning products, such as detergents, as well as personal cleanliness products, like shampoo; 4) reduction of water spotting.

Always have your water tested and base any treatment on those results. Our Water Quality Interpretation Tool will aid you in your decisions.

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