The uses for water are seemingly endless. People use it for drinking, cooking, cleaning, and washing clothes. With so many benefits, many wonder what the differences are between hard and soft water. That’s why the experienced plumbers at Wild West Plumbing Heating & Drain Service in Kalispell, MT, share this brief overview of the two water sources.

Hard Water Contains Extra Minerals

Hard water is water that contains dissolved minerals, including calcium, magnesium, chalk, and lime, which come into contact with it as it travels through the ground into waterways. These minerals impact the taste of the water, but they are safe to drink. In fact, they actually offer some health benefits, like calcium supporting strong bones. The added materials, however, can lead to buildup on faucets and in pipes, as well as leftover residue when used for cleaning or laundry.

Soft Water Is Treated

Soft water, on the other hand, is void of any of those extra minerals. It is treated, meaning the only ion present is sodium. Soft water also reacts with soap more effectively. For this reason, it is better for tasks like cleaning and doing laundry. It is also safe to drink, but there aren’t any added health benefits like in hard water.

Essentially, the choice between hard and soft water depends on your personal preference. It is possible to have a plumber provide water softening solutions if you feel that is necessary. The professionals at Wild West Plumbing Heating & Drain Service will help you navigate those options, as well as provide sump pump, septic system, and plumbing services to residents around Kalispell, Whitefish, Columbia Falls, Bigford, and Lakeside. Call (406) 752-1244 today to speak with a friendly plumber, or contact the company online for more information.