About Hard Water

Hard water is not only a nuisance; the effects of hard water over time can result in the breakdown of appliances, high energy costs and significant other expenses. The only treatment of hard water is to have it softened or conditioned, but the expense of this treatment is minimal compared to the long-term costs associated with hard water.

Significance

Hard water is water that is high in dissolved minerals, typically calcium and magnesium. There is no serious health risk associated with hard water, but it can cause a mineral build-up in pipes, heating systems and appliances that can result in damage. Hard water also decreases the effectiveness of soaps and detergents, can be drying to skin and hair and can cause mild itching and skin irritation in sensitive people.

Geography

The hardness of water depends on location and water source, and hard water is not confined to any particular region or country. In areas where rainwater is subjected to acidic conditions and comes into contact with limestone rock, water will be harder than in other locations. Typically, water that comes from wells and aquifers is considerably harder than water coming from public water supplies.

Identification

Hard water is easy to recognize. Signs of hard water in the home include rings of soap scum or scales in the bathtub, spots or mineral deposits on dishes and glassware, dingy fabrics and clothing, and dry skin. The only way to determine the type and level of water hardness in your home is to have your water professionally tested. Water testing will check the pH of your water and will look for the presence of calcium, magnesium and a range of other minerals.

Effects

Hard water does more than cause unattractive build-up on faucets and tile. It leads to higher energy costs, premature equipment failure and clogged plumbing. Hard water reduces the efficiency of detergents, stresses recirculation pumps and alters the pH of swimming pools. Hard water also causes premature aging of clothes and other fabrics, skin irritation and itching, and dry and brittle hair. These effects of hard water alone can result in thousands of extra dollars spent per year for every home or business.

Prevention/Solution

The most common method of treatment for hard water is to install and use a water softener. Recently, water conditioners have become increasingly popular solutions to hard water as well. Water softeners work by replacing the calcium or other hard minerals in the water with sodium by means of ion exchange. Water conditioners create a magnetic field that alters the ions in the hard water, reducing or eliminating their ability to cause scales and build-up.