What is Water Hardness?
Hardness is caused by high concentrations of specific minerals such as calcium and magnesium (dissolved rock) in water. They make their way into our water supply when our rivers, lakes and other water sources
pass over soft rocks, which are easily dissolved and eroded over time. The water in most eastern cities pass over harder rocks that do not dissolve as easily. This is why certain regional areas have a larger hard water problem than others.
Effects of Hard Water:
- Soap scum buildup on bath fixtures and tub. Soap reacts with hard water minerals leaving an ugly white residue which is difficult to remove.
- Shampoos and soaps won't lather causing soap buildup in hair and clogged skin pores. The results are dry, dull lifeless looking hair and skin.
- Hard water spotting on glasses and dishes - white residue build-up in dishwasher.
- More detergent is needed to get laundry clean. Clothes lose their brightness and whites go gray.
- The high concentration of minerals in hard water causes a lime scale buildup in household pipelines. This buildup of scale slows down water flow and could eventually clog the pipes altogether.
- This lime scale also builds up in household appliances such as water heaters and washing machines, dramatically reducing the life of these expensive items.
- Water with a high concentration of minerals is a poor conductor of heat, so energy consumption in areas with hard water is much higher. Electric and gas heaters can consume up to 30% more than in soft water areas.
