Hard water contains a variety of dissolved minerals, including calcium, sulfates, bicarbonate, and magnesium. If your home water supply contains these compounds, you might notice a variety of issues, some of which could require plumbing repairs. The guide below details more about how to tell whether or not you have hard water. 

How to Tell If You Have Hard Water

1. Water Heater Problems 

If your water heater fails to produce hot water, mineral deposits in the tank may be the culprit. Over time, the calcium, magnesium, and other compounds in hard water collect and build up inside of the tank, which blocks the heating element and usually necessitates plumbing repairs. 

2. Mineral & Scum Buildups

Similarly to the inside of water heaters, you might notice hard water buildups on your fixtures and in your basins. When this happens, you’ll observe brownish rings in your sinks and tubs, along with whitish spots on your faucets and shower glass.

3. Clothing Damage

When you do laundry with hard water, it causes your clothing to fade. Additionally, the dissolved minerals may distress to the fibers of your garments, making them more prone to holes and fraying. You might also notice that your softer clothing starts to feel uncomfortable and scratchy. 

4. Dirty Dishes

If your glasses, plates, and cutlery still look dirty after running the dishwasher or cleaning them by hand, hard water might be to blame. The spots you notice on your dishes are likely dried minerals from the water. 

Prevent hard water issues around your home by allowing the team at Bradford & Sons Electrical Plumbing & Heating to install a water softener on your property. Since 1975, they have provided plumbing repairs to clients throughout Canandaigua, NY. Call (585) 657-7309 to get a quote on plumbing repairs and book an appointment. Visit them online to learn more about the many water treatment solutions they offer.