Mainly an issue in the Northeast, homeowners across the region often find that their water supply contains minerals, such as magnesium and calcium, especially if they depend on a well pump. This problem is known as hard water, and it can negatively impact your health and plumbing system. In fact, it will reduce the life span of appliances that depend on water, including dishwashers and laundry machines. Thus, it’s crucial to recognize common signs. Here’s what you need to know.

How to Tell If You Have Hard Water in Your Home

1. Spotty Dishes

If you wash your dishes and notice white spots after they dry, hard water may be the culprit. Once the water evaporates, the minerals will stay behind, sticking to your dishes. Additionally, you may notice traces of soap, as the minerals make it difficult to wash away the detergent.

2.  Dry Skin

Similar to the dishes, it may be difficult to remove soap from your skin, causing itchiness. Additionally, the minerals left behind can lead to dryness, as they’ll reduce moisture on the skin. Finally, hard water can harm the skin’s protective barrier, leading to skin conditions, such as eczema.  

3. Dingy & Gray Clothing

After doing laundry, inspect your clothes to ensure they’re clean. Hard water prevents the soap from being fully effective, causing your clothing to come out grimy or dull. Also, the detergent may stick to your shirts and pants, leaving soap residue on them. This reduces the cleanliness and will wear out your clothes over time. 

If you notice any of the above signs, contact Gary’s Pump Service. Serving Fairfield County, CT, they will install a water softening system to ensure your water is mineral-free, tasty, and healthy. With almost 50 years of experience, their experts provide a variety of services at affordable prices, including well pump and water softening installations, maintenance, and repairs. To learn more about their well pump services or speak to a member of their team, visit their website or call (203) 744-7826.