How Can Water Be Hard?
Most homes in Missouri suffer from hard water, which can take its toll on homeowners and households. But how can a liquid be hard? Hard water is when excessive sediment and minerals are in the water supply. Minerals such as calcium, iron, and magnesium can comprise how well the home’s showers, faucets, and other water-based appliances work.
For instance, imagine a dishwasher that relies on hard water. Here, glasses may never look clean and may have spots on them after washing. Thankfully, there’s a solution to the effects of hard water. With a whole-home water softener, one can avoid hard water and all the problems that come with it.
How a Water Softener Works
Here’s a basic overview of how most water softeners function:
- Hard water flows into the home and the water softener.
- The water enters a tank filled with resin beads coated in sodium ions.
- The sodium ions swap places with the magnesium and calcium ions that are in the water.
- The treated water exits the water softening system and travels to the faucet or fixture that needs it.
The water softener may also undergo a regeneration phase, reintroducing sodium into the tank and removing the magnesium and calcium ions. With proper maintenance, a water softener can typically last anywhere from 10 to 20 years.
Signs of Hard Water
Healthline notes that some effects of water hard that can indicate the need for water softener installation include:
- Soap scum after washing hands: The calcium interacts with the soap, causing a nasty film.
- Spots on silverware and glasses after washing: These spots are usually caused by calcium carbonate.
- Stained or faded clothes: Mineral deposits from hard water can stain clothes, preventing them from truly getting clean and can cause clothes to wear out faster.
- Poor water pressure: Over time, the sediment in hard water can accumulate inside the home’s pipes, impeding the flow of water and reducing water pressure.
- Dry hair and skin: Hard water can cause dry skin and hair and cause itchiness and irritation of the scalp.
- Stains and deposits on plumbing fixtures: The minerals in hard water can cause white stains and a residue to form on the home’s plumbing fixtures, like faucets.
The Benefits of a Whole Home Water Softener
There are many benefits to installing a water softener to remove sediment and minerals from the water supply, including:
- Longer-lasting appliances that use water: Sediment and minerals in hard water can impact the efficiency and lifespan of appliances that use water, such as water heaters and dishwashers. These appliances can last longer and run more efficiently with a water softener, saving homeowners money.
- Cleaner clothes and dishes: Homeowners won’t have to worry about their favorite shirts fading or their clothes and dishes staining after being washed.
- Good water pressure: Without hard water minerals impeding water flow, homeowners can enjoy better water pressure from their fixtures.
- More hydrated skin and hair: Without experiencing the drying effects of hard water, household residents will experience more healthy hair and skin.
About Honest Abe’s Home Services
Honest Abe’s Home Services is a reliable heating, air conditioning, and plumbing company serving Osage Beach and the surrounding areas. They offer flat-rate pricing, honest advice, and fast turnarounds. Call them today for water softener installation or repair services in Osage Beach, MO.
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