Having hard water doesn't mean it's unsafe to drink and bathe in. It simply means the water running through your home's pipes contains high levels of calcium and magnesium. Depending on where you live, your water might also have a higher level of iron. If you're looking for ways to improve your home, here are a few signs that it's time for a water treatment system. 

5 Signs You Have Hard Water

1. Stains in the Toilet

If you've ever wondered what's causing that weird rust-colored stain around the toilet bowls in your home, it's hard water. Hard water contains a higher level of iron, which causes rust in spots around your home where you use water the most, especially the bathroom. The best way to make sure those don't get worse is to invest in a water softener, which removes the hard minerals from your water through an ion exchange process. 

2. Issues with Clogged Pipes

Over time, continued use and flow of hard water through your home's pipes can cause a build-up of hardened mineral deposits. This makes your pipes extremely narrow and susceptible to blockages and build-ups. If you're experiencing clogged pipes in your kitchen or bathroom, putting in a water treatment system will help keep your pipes clear and water running efficiently through your home. 

3. Itchy Skin

The higher levels of minerals in hard water can quickly dry out your skin. If you feel like your showers are leaving your skin feeling dry and itchy, it's because you have hard water. This makes taking a shower or bath slightly uncomfortable and doesn't leave you feeling as clean as it should. A water softener removes those harsh minerals, and you'll notice a significant difference in the way your skin feels. 

4. Spots on Glasses and Silverware

Before you blame the dishwasher for those pesky residue stains and water spots on your glasses, consider the water that's running through each cycle. Hard water is notorious for spotting your glasses and silverware, even when used with the best dishwasher on the market. It just means it's time to consider purifying your water, so your dishes and silverware come out sparkling clean. 

5. Dingy Clothing

Do the colors of your clothing fade after just a hand full of washes? And no matter how much bleach you use, your white t-shirts aren't as bright any more? Hard water can have a significant effect on clothing and can leave them looking dull and dingy, even after just one wash. Installing a water softener system can make a huge difference in how your clothes look and feel. 

If you're seriously considering a water treatment system in your home, then reach out to the experts at The Water Source in Hudson Valley, NY. For over 30 years they have been installing the most efficient water treatment systems on the market, including reverse osmosis systems, drinking water systems, and water filtration systems. Give them a call at (845) 297-1600 or visit them online for more information on all of their solutions to hard water.