What is Hard Water?The U.S. Geological Survey indicates that 85% of American homes are supplied with hard water which contains dissolved calcium and magnesium ions. Dissolved calcium and magnesium can cause numerous problems when present in a water supply. Whether from a well or a municipal water utility, water usually contains these troublesome elements. Water hardness is usually measured in "grains per gallon," which is an indication of the quantity of dissolved calcium and magnesium the water contains. In amounts as small as one grain per gallon, water is classified as hard to a certain degree. Most homes use water that is considerably harder than that. Many families soften their water by removing the calcium and magnesium with home water treatment equipment. How to Recognize Hard WaterThe most recognizable symptom of hard water is soap scum in the tub and shower, and hard water spots on faucets and fixtures. According to an Ohio State University study, the average person cleaning a home spends over six hours a month cleaning up tap water spots, streaks and scum alone. That's because hardness minerals react with soap and detergent to form an insoluble, sticky residue that is difficult to rinse from bathtubs, sinks, faucets and fixtures. This soap residue is often left on hair, skin and clothing also. Although not highly visible in these instances, it can cause drying and itching of skin, and premature fading and wearing of clothing. Hard water can cause other problems. Over time, scale formed from continuous contact with dissolved minerals in water can collect inside plumbing and on the internal parts of water-using appliances. Service calls to plumbers and repair persons may be necessary when water pressure drops and mechanical parts stop working. Hard water scale can also coat the inside of a water heater and drastically reduce its heating efficiency. Greater fuel consumption and higher utility bills result when the appliance must heat a layer of rock as well as water. According to a study conducted at New Mexico State University, water heaters work 22-30% less efficiently with hard water, driving up utility bills unnecessarily. What is Soft Water?Soft water is essentially free from dissolved calcium or magnesium. Since calcium and magnesium are not present in soft water, there will be no adverse reaction with soaps and detergents. The result is the elimination of soap scum and reduction in time spent cleaning. Hair and skin can "breathe" more readily. The School of Consumer & Family Sciences at Purdue University conducted a study which proved that the life of clothing and household textiles was prolonged up to 15% when they were washed in conditioned water. Find out how you can benefit from a water treatment system in your home. For a FREE, no-obligation consultation in the Triangle North Carolina and Triad North Carolina areas, call now at |