For most people, water is water – we use it so often that it seems homogeneous; however, there are different types. Hard water and soft water are the two main ones to know since each has its own benefits and drawbacks.

What Makes Soft & Hard Water Different?

1. The Materials They Contain

The main difference between hard and soft water comes down to what is inside each. Hard water is found in most homes and usually comes from a private well or public water line. It has a high mineral concentration, mainly consisting of magnesium and calcium. Soft water comes from rain clouds and may also flow out from mountains through rock formations. It’s known for its high concentration of salt.

2. What They’re Useful For

Hard water is useful for drinking; the concentration of magnesium and calcium can even be useful for supplementing a diet if your regular meals and beverages don’t provide enough of these. Soft water is better for cleaning clothes, dishes, floors, and other surfaces. The salt can actually help remove some tough stains, and it won’t leave a residue behind to damage the items it was used to clean.

3. The Drawbacks of Each

Hard water’s mineral concentration is a problem at times. Trying to wash clothes with it can end up causing discoloration, as the high level of mineral buildup draws out the dye. The mineral concentration of hard water can also cause limescale buildup in pipes, reducing water pressure and causing weak currents from faucets. Soft water’s salty taste makes it undrinkable unless you have a good water filter. It can also pick up lead from older pipe systems and, with no mineral concentration to dissolve it, the traces stay in the water supply.

When you need help deciding between soft and hard water, reach out to the team at Butler Water Systems in Fairfield, OH. With over 40 years of experience offering a full range of services, including reverse osmosis and commercial filtration, these experts can help ensure you get clean, safe water for your home or business. To contact them, call (513) 863-5700.