5 Signs You Need a Water Softener
Hard water, filled with high levels of calcium and magnesium, can cause a variety of problems in your home. Sometimes these issues are obvious, other times they are more subtle. But whether you are dealing with an annoying inconvenience or a hidden but costly problem, hard water is bad news for you and your plumbing. But how do you know if your home is suffering from hard water? Let’s take a look at these common signs that you need a water softener.
Hard Water Deposits
The minerals found in hard water can leave behind residue and stains in various places around your home. This is commonly seen in scale buildup on your faucets, showerheads, and even appliances. You might also notice white spots on your glassware and dishes. When hard water mixes with soap, it creates a stubborn film-like substance that sticks to surfaces. This soap scum is commonly found in bathtubs, showers, and sinks.
Laundry Issues
Hard water can damage your clothes and make it harder to keep them clean. Just like with soap scum, this is due to the way that minerals in hard water interact with soap and detergent. Hard water can leave your clothes feeling stiff or rough. It is also likely to wear them out and cause discoloration. The iron in hard water can even turn white clothes yellow. These issues mean you’ll need to use significantly more detergent to keep your laundry clean. If you find yourself constantly running out of detergent, you would benefit from a water softener.
Skin and Hair Problems
Soap doesn’t lather or wash off effectively in hard water, meaning much of it is left behind on your skin. This soap then absorbs your body’s natural moisture, leaving you feeling dried out and itchy. Mineral deposits in the water have a similar effect, sapping much of the moisture from your skin. Some research suggests that hard water may even worsen conditions of eczema. Hard water also dries out your hair, leaving it frizzy and brittle.
Plumbing Problems
Over time, mineral deposits from hard water can build up inside your pipes, reducing water flow and leading to frustrating clogs. This can lower water pressure throughout your home, making it difficult to enjoy a satisfying shower, fill up the bathtub, and wash dishes. Minerals can also build up inside your water heater, reducing its efficiency, raising your energy bills, and shortening its lifespan.
Worn Out Appliances
Hard water can have detrimental effects on a variety of appliances in your home. Mineral buildup reduces the effectiveness and efficiency of dishwashers and washing machines in addition to causing internal damage. It can also clog your coffeemaker and affect the taste of your coffee. Ice makers are another common victim of hard water, which can suffer from reduced ice production and bad-tasting ice.
Say Goodbye to Hard Water
As we’ve seen, hard water can cause numerous problems in your home, from minor annoyances to costly damages. If you’re experiencing any of the signs mentioned above, it’s likely that you have hard water. Fortunately, investing in a water softener can fix these issues and greatly improve the quality of your water. At Robillard Plumbing, we are experts in choosing the right water softener for your home. Contact us to discuss installing one today!
