The majority of American homes have hard water that contains excessive minerals and metals. Your plumber can install a water softener or water conditioner that will reduce the level of minerals and metals in the water in your home.
Water softeners offer numerous advantages. The first thing most people notice is no more water spots on sinks, showers, and dishes. These water spots are caused by the minerals in hard water. Also, hard water causes scale to build up inside of pipes, faucets, shower heads, drains and water heaters. By removing the minerals from the water, a water softener reduces or eliminates the accumulation of scale and prevents problems cause by scale build up.
Water heaters are particularly affected by hard water. The mineral buildup on the heating elements reduces the efficiency of the water heater and causes it to work harder. Soft water can extend the life of a water heater and save money on energy costs. The same is true to a lesser extent for dishwashers, washing machines, and other appliances that use water.
Many people do not like the taste of hard water or itchy feeling from the mineral deposits on their skin following a shower. A water softener solves both of these problems. In addition, soap is less effective when used with hard water due to the minerals in hard water. You will use much less soap with soft water to clean dishes, clothes, cars and bathing. Clothes washed in hard water often feel a little rough due to soap and mineral residue left in the clothing. Clothes washed in soft water get a little cleaner and feel softer than clothes washed in hard water.
If this sounds good to you, talk to your plumber about choosing a water softener that fits your needs. Water softeners come in different capacities and styles and your plumber can recommend the right size and type of water softener for you.
