Water that has a high mineral content is considered hard. When groundwater filters through limestone, it can take mineral deposits with it, such as magnesium, calcium, manganese, iron, and aluminum. Even though hard water is generally not hazardous to your health, it can negatively affect the quality of life at home. Before hiring a plumber to install a softener or conditioner to address hard water issues, here are a few signs to look for.

How to Tell if You Have Hard Water

1. Soap Scum

If it seems like you’ve been trying to get rid of annoying white stains on your shower curtain or bathtub for a long time, you’re probably dealing with soap scum left behind by hard water, which leaves magnesium and calcium deposits behind when it evaporates. You may also notice soap scum on shampoo and conditioner bottles.

2. Water Spots

Like soap scum, white spots on dishes and silverware may also be caused by hard water. When you use detergent, it gets mixed with the minerals in the water. These minerals will remain on everything in the dishwasher. Hire a plumber to assess the problem by testing the water.

3. Dry & Itchy Skin

When hard water prevents dirt and grime from being washed off, you might have itchy or flaking skin after taking a shower. A water softener can help keep your hair bright and skin healthy.

4. Dull Clothes

Clothes and hard water don’t go well together because the minerals make it hard to rinse off soap that already contains dirt and grime. Soil buildup can occur, and colored clothes tend to look drab, while whites will look gray. New towels and bedsheets will also feel scratchy after only a few washes.

5. Funny-Tasting Water

A metallic taste in the water is an indicator of too much iron content, while a rotten egg smell is the result of magnesium reacting with bacteria or hydrogen sulfide gas. Call a reliable plumber as soon as possible to ask for conditioning options to keep your water tasting and smelling fresh.

To have a water conditioning system installed in Wisconsin Rapids, WI, hire a plumber from Powell Plumbing & Pumps to get the job done right. Since 1985, these plumbing contractors have earned a reputation from residents and businesses in the area for their expertise and efficiency. Their services include the maintenance and repairs of septic systems, water heaters, wells, and sump pumps. Visit their website today or call (715) 325-2050 to request a quote.