February 1 2023

Hard Water Woes - What Causes Hard Water?

Hard water is a term used to describe water that has heavy mineral deposits in it. Calcium and magnesium are two of the most common minerals that cause hard water. Trace minerals like iron, manganese, and aluminum may also be found in the water in some areas. The more mineral deposits that are in the water, the harder it is. So, what does this do exactly? For the most part hard water isn’t particularly harmful to your health, it is more of a nuisance than anything else. Here is what to look for. 

Stained Plumbing Fixtures

One of the first signs you might notice are stained plumbing fixtures. Since the water has a heavy concentration of minerals, these can eventually start to build up on your faucets, shower heads, sinks, tubs, and toilets. Mineral deposit stains can make your plumbing fixtures look old and weary and can be particularly cumbersome to clean. A solution of baking soda and vinegar has proven to be an effective cleaner. However, these stains will be recurring until the problem is fixed.  

Frequent Clogs

Just think, if your hard water is staining your plumbing fixtures on the outside, what do you think it is doing to your plumbing on the inside. Mineral deposits can also collect inside of your plumbing pipes, excess buildup can lead to clogs. If you notice frequent clogs, it could be your hard water to blame. In addition, mineral buildup that goes unchecked, can cause damage to your plumbing. Water heaters are particularly susceptible to mineral deposits.

Funny Tasting Water

As if the mineral deposit stains weren’t enough, funny tasting water is another calling card of mineral deposits in your water. If you notice your water tastes and/or smells bad minerals deposits could be to blame. Water that taste metallic, smells like sulfur, or taste like dirt are probably caused by hard water.  

Clothes Aren’t Clean After The Wash

Mineral deposits can interfere with the effectiveness of laundry detergents. If your clothes aren’t coming out clean, are dingy, or feel hard and scratchy, it is probably from the hard water. While they do make special laundry detergent for that can help soften the water, you may end up using more laundry detergent with each wash. This cost can add up over time.

Irritated Skin

Hard water can be an irritant from some people. Just like with the laundry detergent, the mineral deposits in your water can interfere with your soaps and shampoos as well making them more difficult to rinse off. This can leave a residue that dries the skin making it irritated and itchy. Mineral deposits can also get left on the skin causing irritation.  

Faulty Appliances

Remember what mineral deposits do to your plumbing fixtures and internal plumbing? Water using appliances are no exception, and are just as susceptible to mineral buildup. This can cause your appliances to wear out too soon. If you notice you are replacing your appliances before their expiration date, its time to get your water checked. Hard water can have an affect on a lot of different areas of your home life. While each problem may seem insignificant on its own, it is part of a bigger problem. The best way to treat hard water is to have a water softener installed. If you suspect you have hard water, you don’t have to suffer. Protect your plumbing fixtures and appliances and improve your quality of life by installing a water softener. For more information contact Rooter Hero today to schedule nearby plumbers!

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