The hard water vs soft water debate has been going on for years. Most of the time, people tend to settle for whatever equipment comes with their home, but there are many benefits to switching to soft water.
Appliances, energy bills and detergent use are all strongly affected by water usage and type.
Hard water effects on your home
1) Hard water causes mineral deposit build up
The difference between hard water and soft water is the level of dissolved minerals in the water. Hard water contains high levels of calcium and magnesium while soft water has very low levels of these minerals. Mineral deposits from hard water clog appliances, dramatically shortening their life span. Water heaters are notorious for deposits due to the heat causing magnesium and calcium to harden.
2) Soft water systems use less energy
Energy-efficient appliances save money and reduce the carbon footprint of a home, but hard water can decrease the effectiveness of these products. Hard water leaves soap scum behind and damages appliances. Most energy-efficient appliance manuals recommend a water softener for your home, but many homeowners don’t know that.
3) Clothes and dishes will actually be clean!
Hard water tends to leave behind a residue on dishes and dulls the color of clothes. Proof of this is seen when dishes look cloudy regardless of the detergent used. Clothing washed using hard water may feel stiff due to magnesium and calcium build up, as well.
Although both hard water and soft water can be used with most appliances, the benefits of soft water outweigh the costs by a long shot. Mr. Plumber Plumbing Co. installs water softeners and has all kinds of information about the benefit of all homeowners. When deciding on your water system, contact us or give us a call at (210) 492-2000.
