Have you spent half the day washing dishes by hand after they went through your dishwasher? If you’re struggling with hard water, you’re not alone. Most people don’t realize how much water quality can affect routine activities. Many products are available to manage the symptoms, but installing a water softener will take care of multiple problems at once.
Hard Water: The Symptoms
If you have hard water, you may experience one or many of the following symptoms in your home.
• Soap, shampoo and other cleansing products don’t lather well
• Reduced water flow through pipes
• Scale buildup in coffee makers, teapots and other items that have frequent water contact
• Residue in pet water bowls
• Spots and streaks on dishes
• Greasy, grimy residue in tubs and sinks
• Dingy-looking laundry
• Rough-feeling, stiff fabrics
• Lifeless, dull hair
• Dry, itchy or irritated skin
What Causes Hard Water?
According to Texas A&M University, these water problems are related to the presence of calcium and magnesium compounds. The substances enter the water supply naturally when rocks and mineral deposits in the earth dissolve. While we need these minerals for optimal health, high levels in our water cause the formation of scale that lines the interiors of pipes, coffee makers and everything else that uses water regularly. Scale is responsible for the plumbing problems and those annoying hard water symptoms.
How Do Water Softeners Work?
Water softeners reroute water to bypass outside water lines, so it can be treated to reduce hardness before its use in the home. The appliances work by using a process called ion exchange. As the water passes through the system, the minerals are replaced with sodium, which makes the water soft. Many water softeners have automatic timers to flush and recharge the system; this maintains consistent performance. With a little help from a water softener, you can have cleaner dishes, healthier skin, softer fabrics and even better plumbing performance.
Let ABC Soften the Blow of Hard Water
If you’re experiencing symptoms of hard water, our expert plumbers can install a high-quality water softening system that’ll make them history. ABC has been providing exceptional service in the San Antonio area since 1949. We understand the local water conditions and how they can disrupt your daily life. Our skilled technicians can take care of all your water problems and other routine plumbing needs. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.