Definitions of Hard Water & Soft Water
The hardness or softness of water refers to its mineral content. Hard water contains high quantities of dissolved minerals, such as magnesium and calcium. Soft water has been treated and does not contain these minerals, but it does contain sodium. Rainwater is naturally soft, but water absorbs minerals as it passes through the ground and waterways. Hard and soft water both have benefits and drawbacks. Does this Spark an idea?
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Hard Water Advantages
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Drinking hard water may lower the risk of cardiovascular disease because it provides important trace minerals and does not have the sodium content of soft water. These trace minerals also give hard water a distinctive taste, which many people enjoy.
Hard Water Disadvantages
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The minerals in hard water make cleaning tasks, such as laundry and dish washing, more difficult. Clothes washed in hard water may look dingy, wear out faster or feel scratchy. Dishes washed in it may appear dull or have spots. Hard water makes soap less effective. So bathing can take longer and leave the bather feeling as if she is less clean. Hard water also may make appliances less efficient.
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Soft Water Advantages
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Soft water works better than hard water with soap, making cleaning tasks and laundry more efficient and effective. Soft water does not cause mineral deposits in sinks and showers. Appliances run more efficiently with soft water, decreasing energy costs and helping appliances last longer.
Soft Water Disadvantages
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People who are on low-sodium diets, such as people with cardiovascular problems, should not drink soft water. Soft water does not offer the trace minerals of hard water. In addition, soft water should not be used to water lawns or plants because its sodium content may cause damage.
Water Tests
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Your water supply company or health department can provide information regarding the hardness or softness of your water. You also can use a testing kit to determine the levels of trace minerals in your water.
Water Adjustment
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Hard water can be softened with a mechanical water softening tank. These tanks contain microporous softening materials that collect calcium and magnesium and release sodium. Mechanical water softening tanks generally cost from $600 to $800 (in 2010). They also are available for rent in some areas.
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References
- Photo Credit glass of water image by Bube from Fotolia.com
