How to Know if You Need a Water Softener?

Is Hard Water “Bad” For You?

“Hard water” gets its name from the hard, scaly deposits left behind by an overabundance of minerals in the water. Minerals like magnesium and calcium are naturally found in drinking water and are not harmful to consume. Hard water means it has an abnormal level of these minerals, which can cause problems for homeowners. 

The mineral deposits left behind by hard water can make it impossible to keep fixtures clean. Over time, scale buildup can negatively impact the function of the plumbing system and take years off the lives of pipes, appliances, and other plumbing fixtures. Hard water can also dry out skin and nails, reduce water pressure, and wear out clothing faster. 

What Does a Water Softener Do?

Water softeners are a kind of water filtration system that removes minerals from the water through the process of ion exchange. Water softeners attach to the main water line and filter the water that passes through it. There are negatively charged resin ion beads inside the water filter that attracts the positively charged molecules of minerals. 

Once a water softener is installed, there is very little maintenance necessary. Water softeners are self-cleaning. They flush out the minerals from the resin beads with a salt-water solution, so the beads are free to continue their job. Water softeners offer a long-lasting solution to hard water at home. 

Warning Signs of Hard Water

Homeowners should know the signs of hard water, such as spots left on dishes after they’re washed, mineral deposits on showers and sinks, and faded clothes. Hard water can also dry out skin and nails, causing problems like acne and limp hair. Clothing is also negatively affected by being washed in hard water. Hard water causes the colors in clothing to fade faster than normal. 

Higher utility bills and reduced water pressure can also be caused by hard water. Scale buildup from hard water can negatively impact the plumbing system by narrowing the waterway. The water pressure can be affected when the scale buildup on the pipes or faucets gets to be too much.

Hard water can make it difficult to clean the home effectively because it leaves behind spots of mineral deposits. Scale buildup can lead to corrosion and rust, which, if bad enough, would require a premature replacement of the affected plumbing. Corrosion and rust in the plumbing system can lead to a total system failure if left in a state of disrepair. 

Whole-Home Water Softener Installation

With a whole-home water softener installation, homeowners never have to worry about hard water negatively affecting their household. Investing in a water softener helps to keep the home cleaner. Water softener installation also helps to protect the homeowner’s investment in their plumbing system by preventing the need for premature repairs and replacements. 

Homeowners can keep their water bills low and their homes cleaner by installing a whole-home water softener. The installation of a water softener is usually straightforward and requires very little maintenance. Additional benefits of a water softener are more hydrated skin and hair and longer-lasting clothes. 

About S and J Plumbing 

S and J Plumbing provide the community of Arlington Heights, IL, and the surrounding areas with transparent service from start to finish. They offer upfront pricing, 24-hour emergency service, and personalized solutions. Call them today for plumbing services in Arlington Heights, IL.

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