Many households deal with hard water, but few realize how serious this problem really is. Water with a high calcium and magnesium content is known as hard water, and it has many negative effects, including making cleaning more difficult and more expensive. Home water appliances can last longer and save a ton of money if you know how to deal with hard water.
The Basics of Hard Water
As it seeps through the ground, hard water collects dissolved minerals, mostly magnesium and calcium, from the rocks and dirt, it passes through. While these minerals pose no threat to human health, they can cause serious damage to plumbing and household equipment. Levels over 7 grains per gallon (gpg) are generally regarded as hard water, according to the standard measurement system.
Greater Utilization of Soaps and Detergents
The effectiveness of soaps and detergents is diminished in hard water. Water that is not as effective at lathering means you have to use more soap and detergent to get the same level of cleanliness, which means you use more water overall and end up with a higher water bill every month.
Lifespan and Efficiency of Appliances
Hard water makes water-using appliances like dishwashers, washers, and water heaters work more. The result is increased energy usage and faster wear and tear. Scale development and greater mechanical strain can lead to appliances needing repairs or replacement more often.
Having Issues with Your Plumbing
Limescale builds up in pipes and fixtures caused by hard water. Reduced water flow, increased pressure, and leaks caused by these deposits can add up over time, making repairs a pricey ordeal.
The Economic Effects of Hard Water
More than higher energy costs and soap usage, hard water is a major financial hardship. Homeowners can end up with expensive plumbing costs and having to repair appliances before they should. It takes more energy to heat hard water as well.
How to Fix Hard Water Issues
Hydraulic Detergents
To overcome hard water, the best option is to install a water softener. By substituting sodium or potassium ions for calcium and magnesium ions, water softeners remove these minerals from the water. Ion exchange is a method that keeps scale from accumulating, which improves the performance of appliances and makes them last longer.
Keeping Things Clean and in Good Repair
Descaling pipes and appliances on a regular basis can help soften hard water for households that do not have water softeners. If you have limescale buildup in your kettle, showerhead, or faucet, you can clean it using vinegar or another product.
Invest in Appliances that are Hard and Waterproof
Appliances made recently are better able to withstand harsh water. Purchasing them can lessen the need for repairs and replacements, which in turn saves money.
How to Decrease your Water Bills with a High-Quality Water Softener
Improved Product Lifespan and Energy Efficiency
Cambridge’s Water Softener, once installed in your house, will eliminate hard water problems. These systems save plumbing and appliances from clogging up with minerals by changing hard water into soft water. Washing machines, dishwashers, and water heaters can all run more effectively because of this. For example, water heaters take less energy to heat soft water compared to hard water since the former does not include any minerals that act as obstacles. Electricity or gas expenses might go down as a result of this enhanced efficiency.