Soft Water vs. Hard Water: What’s the Difference?
You may have seen or read advertisements for water softeners but have no idea what a water softener does or what soft water even means. Fortunately, you’re not alone!
Let’s take a look at some key differences between hard and soft water and the effects they can have on your home.
Hard Water & Minerals
Minerals, such as magnesium and calcium, are found in all varying levels of water hardness. When you use a water filtration system, it strips away these minerals from the water, softening it up.
➔ Water consisting of 17 parts per million or less is considered soft water.
➔ Slightly hard water is between 17 and 60 parts per million, while 60 to 180 parts per million are labeled as moderately hard to hard water.
➔ Any water containing over 180 parts per million is considered very hard water.
The Earth’s Water is Mostly Hard
As you may already know, the Earth’s surface is roughly 70% water, and just 3% of that water is freshwater, while only 1% is drinkable.
Considering our drinking water comes from rivers, lakes, and the ground, our water supply is mostly hard water.
Soft Water is Better for Cleaning
Hard water’s minerals are the culprit of that residue you find on your freshly cleaned dishes or recently washed hands. The minerals in hard water act as a dilution to soap, leaving a then film on your hands and dishes after you wash.
Additionally, hard water can leave your scalp dry and flakey as well.
Hard Water Causes Damage to Your Home
Hard water can greatly impact your home or business’ plumbing system. Since hard water contains minerals, it’s corrosive by nature.
Over time, the hard water running through your home will damage your pipes, causing leaks or even bursts. Heavily damaged pipes can cost thousands of dollars to repair.
Hard water also causes damage to your appliances, such as your dishwasher, refrigerator, and laundry. Just like your home’s plumbing system, hard water running through these appliances causes wear and tear on account of their corrosive nature.
Soft Water Generally Tastes Better
Hard water’s mineral content doesn’t adversely affect the body and may offer some benefits of minerals needed in our diet. However, this amount doesn’t outweigh hard water’s taste as it can sometimes feel as though you’re drinking pennies.
Soft water generally has less taste, but historically, people prefer less flavor in your water.
Count On Croix Crystal Water Treatment
If you need to remove hard water from your home or business or have great tasting water delivered right to your door, call on Croix Crystal Water Treatment!
Request a free quote online or give us a call at 715-386-8667 today!