Is Hard Water Bad for You?

From keeping you hydrated to cleaning your dishes, water plays a crucial role in our daily lives. But have you ever stopped to consider the quality of the water flowing through your taps? You might have heard the term "hard water" tossed around in conversations about plumbing and home maintenance, but is it bad for you?

The latest blog post from the plumbing experts at Friendly Plumber, Heating and Air will discuss what hard water is, the negative effects of hard water, and how you can eliminate hard water. Contact our team of plumbers today to learn more or to schedule an appointment in the Salt Lake City area.

What is Hard Water?

Hard water contains a high concentration of dissolved minerals, primarily calcium and magnesium concentrations. These minerals are picked up as water flows through rock and soil formations, absorbing various elements along the way. 

As a result, any water flowing into your home can contain these minerals. How hard your specific water supply is will vary depending on your geographical location and the source of your water supply. 

Negative Effects of Hard Water

Hard water can cause a variety of issues around the house, such as:

• Limescale Buildup: Hard water can leave mineral deposits, known as limescale, on faucets, showerheads, and other fixtures. This can reduce water flow and clog pipes over time, causing expensive repairs.
• Stiff and Faded Clothing and Linens: Washing clothes and linens with hard water can cause them to lose their brightness and feel stiff, affecting their appearance and texture.
• Skin and Hair Issues: Using hard water for showering, bathing, and washing your hands may lead to dry and irritated skin, as well as hair that appears dull and lacks its natural shine.
• Appliance Wear and Tear: Appliances like dishwashers and washing machines can suffer from mineral buildup, leading to decreased efficiency and potentially shorter lifespans.
• Spots on Dishes and Glassware: Hard water can leave mineral spots on dishes and glassware, making them harder to clean and affecting their overall appearance.

Is Hard Water Bad for Your Health?

Consuming hard water is not considered to be dangerous for your health. As long as the mineral content remains within acceptable levels, the presence of dissolved calcium and magnesium in your drinking water will not be a danger to your health.

However, while hard water itself is not a health risk, it can have negative effects on your plumbing equipment and your family’s overall well-being. For example, using hard water for bathing and showering can lead to negative effects on your skin and hair.

Additionally, the buildup of limescale in pipes and appliances can reduce their efficiency, potentially increasing energy costs. 

How to Eliminate Hard Water

The best way to prevent hard water is by installing a water softener. These systems work by replacing excess calcium and magnesium ions with sodium ions. This process is called “ion exchange”, and it effectively reduces the mineral content in the water, transforming it into softer water. 

Water softeners are typically installed at the point where water enters your home. This ensures that all the water you use, whether for drinking, bathing, cleaning, or cooking, is softened at the source.

Finding the best water softener system for your home involves considering factors like the size of your household, your exact water hardness, and your budget.

When you work with the experts at Friendly Plumber, Heating and Air, our team will consider all factors to provide you with a tailored water-softening solution. We will determine the right size and type of water softener that suits your specific needs, ensuring optimal performance and efficiency.

To get started, contact Friendly — Your Home’s Best Friend.

Choose Friendly for Water Softener Installation Services in Salt Lake City, UT

Installing a water softener is a great way to improve water quality and protect your home from the negative effects of hard water. Friendly Plumber, Heating and Air provides water softener installation services to residents of Salt Lake City, UT, and the surrounding areas. 

Backed by countless five-star reviews, you can count on our team to get the job done right — the first time. If your home is ready to take advantage of the benefits provided by soft water, get in touch with our team of experienced plumbers today to schedule an appointment.