A small amount of knowledge about your plumbing system can go a long way toward improving your quality of life and taking care of your home. One pressing issue to know about is the presence of “hard water,” which can damage your plumbing if you don’t have a water softener set up. Here’s a guide that will illuminate the subject. 

What Is Hard Water?

Hard water is water that has a high concentration of minerals — mostly magnesium and calcium. As rainwater moves into storage aquifers, it takes on these minerals, going from “soft” to “hard.” On a technical level, 0 to 60 milligrams of calcium carbonate in every liter of water constitutes soft water, and anything higher is considered hard water. While it is still safe to drink, it can have a damaging effect on your plumbing and household fixtures. The primary way to address the issue is with a tank known as a water softener, which removes the hard minerals via an ion exchange process. 

What Impact Does It Have?

When hard water moves through your plumbing system, it leaves behind what are known as “scale deposits,” or trace amounts of the minerals. These deposits can grow to be quite substantial over time, creating a clog in your pipes that reduces water pressure. They can even grow to such a degree that the opening is completely blocked, making the transfer of water impossible without a substantial repair job. Without a water softener, the hard water can also work its way into dishwashers, where it can leave residue on your plates and cups, and water heaters, taking years off their life span. 

If you think your home is being plagued by hard water, get in touch with a respected water treatment specialist from The Water Source in Wappingers Falls, NY. Bringing over two decades of experience, the certified water operators and licensed plumbers can outfit your home with a water softener to quickly root out the problematic minerals. You can start off with a free water analysis by calling (845) 297-1600. Learn more about how they can improve your drinking water and protect your pipes by visiting their website.