Hard water wreaks havoc on homes across the US. In Florida, our water is known to be particularly problematic due to the high concentrations of minerals. Although some homeowners try to combat its effects with portable water filters, they should be more concerned with the detrimental effects of hard water on their plumbing systems and appliances.
A whole house water softener system takes a targeted approach to tackling the issue of hard water. For residential properties and vacation homes, Airbnb rentals and condos, a water softener can save a lot of headaches down the road. Learn more about hard water and whether your home would benefit from a water softener.
What Is Hard Water?
Hard water is a common problem among Florida homeowners. In Clearwater, FL, the hard water level is around 178 PPM (mg/L) or 10 gpg. So what does that mean? Well, it means that the water in Clearwater is considered severely hard.
- A level less than 75 mg/L is considered soft
- A level between 76 and 150 mg/L is considered moderately hard
- A level between 151 and 300 mg/L is considered hard
Although drinking hard water doesn’t pose any health risks, that doesn’t mean it’s not a problem you can ignore. That’s because it makes itself known in other ways. H
Hard water affects everything in your home: your appliances, taps, fixtures, plumbing system, pipes, drains, you name it. From your dishwasher to your refrigerator, your hot water heater to your water line, the minerals that are in hard water have detrimental effects.
How Does a Water Softener Work?
A whole-house water softener addresses the problem at the source. When installed by a professional plumber, the installation usually involves putting in a tank where the water enters your home. As water enters the system, a filter removes the unwanted hard water elements such as magnesium and calcium. Then the water is sent throughout the rest of your home.
Why Does My Home Need a Water Softener?
We’ve discussed the negative effects of hard water on your home’s structure and integrity. As the minerals build up, they can cause issues not just for your home, but for your household members in other ways.
Hard water can cause physical discomfort by negatively influencing the hydration and pH levels of your hair, skin, and nails. You may notice that your skin is dry and uncomfortable and that your hair feels brittle, lank, and dry. Because soap and shampoo don’t dissolve as easily in hard water, they don’t completely rinse off, leaving a residue behind.
It also leaves behind unsightly deposits around your home. You’ll notice white, chalky buildup on countertops, faucets, fixtures, and on your dishes, glasses, and silverware. Referred to as limescale, this accumulation is not only unsightly, but it can cause build-ups in your pipes, leading to costly plumbing repairs down the line.
Learn more about your options for combatting hard water in your home by contacting us today.
Contact Bayonet Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning to schedule water softener services in Clearwater, FL today!
