Hard water refers to water with a high mineral content, which is often calcium. While it’s not typically a health hazard, it can cause problems and breakdowns with your plumbing system and household appliances. Below, the water treatment professionals at Tarvin Plumbing in Cincinnati, OH, discuss what you need to know about hard water and how you can measure it.

Causes of Hard Water

Hard water occurs when water trickles through limestone and chalk deposits, causing it to contain high levels of calcium and magnesium. You may see yellow or white-colored crusts forming around your faucets, pipes, and even in the dishwasher or on your shower curtains; this is due to a lack of foam formation. To come up with the best options for water treatment, you must first measure the level of hardness in your water supply. 

Measuring Hard Water

A colorimeter is one method of measuring hard water. This device measures the absorbance of a wavelength of light to determine the concentration of a mineral in the water. You can also purchase a testing kit from your local hardware store, which usually comes with test tablets or strips. After filling a glass with water, you can dip the strip in and wait for it to change colors. The kit should come with a color chart so you can compare and determine the level of minerals in your water supply.

If you are dealing with hard water issues, turn to the premier contractors at Tarvin Plumbing in Cincinnati, OH, for water treatment solutions. For more than 110 years, this reputable company has provided top-quality plumbing and home renovation services to home and business owners, from sewer replacement and water treatment to kitchen remodeling. To learn more about their services, call today at (513) 321-5726. You can also visit their website or follow them on Facebook for more information.