Hard water is full of minerals, like calcium and magnesium, that can cause problems ranging from short lifespans for your appliances to cleaning difficulties. Know how to recognize if you have hard water and whether you would benefit from installing a water softener. 

Common Warning Signs of Hard Water

1. Mineral Buildup on Fixtures

The minerals in hard water can buildup on your plumbing and cause staining and discoloration. Often, you will see it around your features, specifically at the end of a faucet or down the front of your sink. While stained fixtures are harder to keep clean, you need to be aware that the same buildup is occurring inside the plumbing. Hard water can restrict water flow, affect water pressure, and clog water-using appliances. If you begin to notice mineral stains or lower water pressure, consider contacting a residential water treatment specialist to have your home tested for hard water. 

2. Soap Scum

When the minerals in hard water mix with your soap or detergent, they create a filmy soap scum that can coat your fixtures and appliances. If the soap scum persists, it becomes challenging to rinse things off properly. This coating is both detrimental to the aesthetic appeal of your home and your health, as these minerals in excess amounts could be harmful to your health. Unless you get a water softener, you will see a constant thin film of soap scum in your sinks, showers, and tubs.

3. Water Spots

When the minerals come into contact with glass, they leave behind water spots. This is similar to the soap scum in your shower, and you may see these spots on your dishes after running the dishwasher or on the walls of a glass shower. If the hard water persists, you will not be able to use cleaning agents without leaving behind this mineral residue. They are tough to clean off and will leave your glass looking fogged and dirty. Consider contacting a professional about water purification if you notice water spots on your glass surfaces and dishes.

If your home has hard water, a water softener will remove those minerals to eliminate all of the negative consequences. Hewitt-Messenger Well Drilling & Pump Service specializes in all types of residential water treatment in southwest Missouri. Their service area includes Springfield, Republic, Rogersville, Ozark, and Branson. They will ensure your family has a high-quality water supply with services from water purification to softening, and have earned an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau for their high level of care. Contact them online or at (417) 725-8816 to get started.