When you have hard water, your water supply contains high amounts of minerals, such as magnesium, limestone or calcium. Although it isn’t a health risk, the liquid can leave residue on or around your plumbing fixtures.
Mr. Plumber is here to help you get rid of these pesky stains! We understand the importance of keeping your home clean and your water supply in excellent condition, which is why we’ve compiled a guide to help you learn more about hard water and what you can do to remove its aggravating buildup.
Signs You Have Hard Water In San Antonio
The “hardness” of your water depends on how high its mineral content is. The amount is measured in grains per gallon (gpg) and helps homeowners determine the state of their water. Anything greater than 7.5 gpg is considered hard water, and water testing can pinpoint the quality of your household’s supply.
The effects of hard water can be a hassle. It can leave tough stains on your fixtures and buildup in your appliances. Hard water can also cause dry skin and create an unpleasant film on your hair after showering. Additionally, you may notice a poor aftertaste as you drink water.
Hard Water Stain Removal Methods
Hard water stains stay true to their name, as they can be a challenge to remove! Soap is relatively ineffective at removing the residue. As a result, you need multiple cleaning methods to wash away the unwanted film.
Baking Soda And Vinegar
Baking soda and vinegar are a powerful duo used for many cleaning needs! The mixture can remove residue from your faucets, sinks, toilets and other appliances. While the instructions below are meant for a toilet bowl, they can be adapted to any space:
- Mix one cup of vinegar into your toilet bowl or other areas.
- Pour a cup of baking soda and one to two more cups of vinegar.
- Allow the solution to sit for 10 minutes.
- Scrub with a toilet brush to ensure the solution is coating the stains.
- Continue to scrub around the residue until gone.
- Flush the solution.
For shower walls, you can complete this process by putting vinegar into a spray bottle. Mix baking soda and water to form a paste. Then scrub the wall with a brush to remove any buildup.
Borax And Vinegar
Similarly, Borax and vinegar can tackle hard water stains. You can pour ¼ Borax into a toilet bowl, followed by one cup of vinegar. The two can also be mixed into a paste. Allow the solution to sit for 30 minutes before scrubbing at the buildup.
Combat Hard Water With A Water Softening System
When you invest in a water-softening system, you’ll minimize the unpleasant effects that hard water creates. A water softener reduces the mineral content in your home’s supply, replacing mineral ions with salt ions. With this technology, you won’t have to worry about removing aggravating hard water stains.
Contact Mr. Plumber For Water Softener Installation Services
Mr. Plumber is dedicated to providing our customers with clean and healthy water! You can count on our team of professionals to handle all your San Antonio plumbing needs. If a water-softening system is the next best addition to your home, contact us today to learn more!
