You may have heard the phrases "hard water" and "soft water," but do you know what those terms mean? For over 40 years, Butler Water Systems has prided itself on bringing the cleanest, safest water to you, and they can provide the best explanation for how to make sure your water is in prime drinking condition. 

Here are the answers to some frequently asked questions about hard and soft water:

• What is soft water? Purified water is soft water. Yes, it's that simple. 
• How does soft water become hard? For now, let's use rainwater as an example. If limestone rock layers come into contact with rainwater, calcium carbonate from the limestone will dissolve into the rainwater, making it "hard."
• Are there levels of hardness? Yes, absolutely. Levels of hardness depends on the types of compounds the water is exposed to. 
• Can you tell if water is soft or hard by looking at it? No. In order to tell if water is soft or hard, you must test it. Your technicians at Butler Water Systems would be glad to test your water!
• Which type of water is better to drink? Both hard water and soft water are safe for humans to drink, though you may notice a difference in taste.
• Can I "soften" water that is already hard? Probably. If your hard water is temporal, it's caused by calcium bicarbonate, which can be boiled out. If your hard water is permanent, though, it's hard because of the presence of other salts. The traditional method to remove these salts is by adding sodium carbonate (washing soda) to your water. However, this can clog your pipes with limescale, which is dangerous! Instead, talk to the experts at Butler Water Systems about their excellent and safe saltless solutions.
• Why should I use a water softener? Hard water can lead to soap scum and residue in your sinks, tub, and even on your body and hair. Clothes don't retain their color and durability when they're washed in hard water, and appliances like dishwashers and washer machines perform better with soft water.

Certified by the Water Quality Association, the expert team at Butler Water Systems is passionate about providing healthy water supplies to their community, and they know the best methods for softening the water in your system. To learn about all of the services they offer to the Fairfield, Ohio area, visit them online. Are you interested in installing a whole house water filter to purify your water? Call (513) 867-5700 today! You can also follow Butler Water Systems on Facebook for special offers and company updates.