Hard water can cause problems many for homeowners in both increased energy usage and a shortened lifespan of plumbing fixtures and appliances. A water softener can eliminate these problems. Here are signs you need a water softener.
1. Low Water Pressure
As mineral deposits accumulate over time you will notice that faucets and shower heads become less powerful. Removing the fixture and soaking it in vinegar overnight can help restore water pressure temporarily.
2. Soap Scum In the Bathroom
When minerals in the water combine with soap residue the result is an unpleasant layer of scum on shower enclosures and on bathtubs. This means more frequent cleaning is necessary to remove keep surfaces clean.
3. You Need Fabric Softener
If laundry is unpleasantly rough and you need fabric softener to keep clothing and bedding comfortable, hard water is likely to blame. A water softener will not only make laundry softer, it will brighten colors and require less detergent to clean dirty clothing.
4. Dishes are Full of Water Spots
If not dried quickly the minerals in the water can lead to unpleasant water spots on glasses and cutlery. Eventually, you may need to soak glasses in vinegar to remove the layers of deposits that accumulate over time.
5. The Water Heater Is less Efficient and Wears Out Prematurely
The two minerals most commonly found in hard water, calcium and magnesium, make heating water less efficient. It requires more energy to heat mineral heavy water compared to clear, purified water. Heating elements in water heaters can also quickly become covered in mineral deposits. When there is limescale between the heating element and the water it will act as a barrier, preventing the water from heating up efficiently and causing the burners to work overtime. Mineral deposits from hard water can also dramatically reduce the lifespan of a water heater by clogging pipes, valves and drains.
Have hard water problems in your home? Call Grand Lake Plumbing and Heating. We have effective solutions for removing minerals and improving water quality.
