Signs your Home Needs A Water Softener
Hard water has turned into a rising concern in many American homes over the last few years. It harbors high concentrations of minerals such as calcium and magnesium, which can damage the plumbing system and appliances.
Spending money on a water softener is the optimal way of dealing with hard water problems. It gets rid of the excess mineral deposits and changes them out with sodium and potassium. It can extend the life of plumbing systems, clothes, and other appliances, ultimately saving money in the long run. The majority of homeowners are ignorant of whether their home needs a water softener to reduce the effect of hard water. Here are some signs which dictate if your home needs one.
Scale build-up and stains
Scale deposit or limescale thrives on anything exposed to hard water for an extended period of time. If you discover limescale (a hard-chalky substance) on the tea kettle, inside the pipes, dinnerware, cutlery, glassware, or inside appliances such as dishwashers and washing machines, in pipes and plumbing parts, you most likely have hard water. It can also cause the glassware to become brittle and be easily broken. These scale deposits eventually stop up the pipes and damage the plumbing system and appliances, ending in expensive repairs and replacements.
Deposited minerals from hard water also produce ugly stains on sinks, bathtubs, showerheads, toilets, and faucets. A water softener will help reduce these problems.
Gray and faded clothes
Because of the high concentrations of mineral salts in hard water, clothes, bedding, and towels begin to lose their color and texture after only a couple of washes. The clothing starts to appear dull and grayish and feels rough and scratchy. If you find out your new clothes have begun to fade, it’s time to buy a water softener.
Dry hair and itchy skin
Hard water causes the skin to become itchy, flaky, and hair dry, rough, and brittle. This is caused by the mineral deposits not rinsing off the skin and settling in since soap and shampoo can’t dissolve them.
Higher water bills
If you observe a sudden rise in your water bill even though you’re not using more water, hard water could be the culprit. Over time scale build-up clogs pipes and appliances, and the plumbing system needs to work harder to make it so water can go through. This can create a sudden increase in your water bill.
Frequent plumbing repair needs
Steel and copper pipes require frequent repairs when they are frequently in contact with hard water. This can cause water leakage and damaged appliances. Another signal you may need a water softener is if the water heater malfunctions or breaks down.
Many people suffer from problems related to hard water daily without even realizing it. There are multiple temporary solutions to the hard water issue, but it is intelligent to invest in a water softener for long-term relief. If you find the above signs in your home, either get a water testing kit from your local hardware store or call a plumbing company to have the home’s water tested for hardness and other contaminants. If you want to install a water softener or replace an old one, an expert plumber will advise you on the optimal water softener after testing the home water.
If you need a licensed, bonded, experienced plumber for plumbing installation and service in Chandler, Gilbert, Mesa, Queen Creek, Ahwatukee or San Tan Valley call Norfleet Family Plumbing Heating and Air at 480-681-1764.
