Most people take the water that comes out of their tap for granted. Beyond the other stuff that can be in your home’s drinking and potable water, there’s something else you need to think about: hard water. Here in Fresno, our exceptionally hard water makes a water softener a necessity.
A water softener treats a hard water problem by removing the buildup of minerals that can damage your home’s plumbing. It effectively removes the minerals such as calcium and magnesium carbonates through an ion exchange process. The device can increase the lifespan of the plumbing fixtures and reduce plumbing repair costs.
In this article, we will take a look at some of the reasons why it’s important to soften hard water by installing a water softener.
What is hard water?
Thanks to gravity, water is always on the move. In rivers, it can carve canyons and create valleys. Underground in aquifers and wells, water slips between rocks. All that time, the water is brushing against the rock, scraping off minerals such as calcium and magnesium. It’s the presence of minerals that makes water “hard” as opposed to “soft.”
Do Fresno homes have these issues?
Yes, we do. Here in Fresno, our water, on average, is 122 parts per million. According to the scale developed by the Water Quality Association, that means our water here in town is classified as “hard.”
If your home’s water is drawn exclusively from underground sources, your water might even be harder than that. That’s because aquifer sources are typically “harder” than surface water sources.
So, what’s the problem?
First, let’s clear something up: there’s no health risk for you and your family as a result of hard water. (Although, there’s other reasons you should consider a whole-home water filtration system). However, hard water can do a number on your home’s plumbing and appliances. Let’s explain why.
As this mineral-rich water passes through the pipes and plumbing of your home, those minerals leech out of the water and stick to the inside of the pipe. Over time, this results in the buildup of calcium commonly known as “scale.”
What else does hard water impact?
The flow of water in your home can be reduced because of this blockage in the pipe. The result is that you’ll need to re-pipe your home—an expensive proposition—a lot sooner than you would have otherwise. It’s a major problem here in Fresno.
However, that’s not all. Those minerals are also being pumped into your dishwasher and washing machine every time you use them, causing damage and reducing the lifespan of your appliances.
Your water heater is particularly vulnerable. After all, it has water inside of it at all times. Mineral buildup can negatively impact the anode rod, and deposits of just 1/16 of an inch can negate your water heater’s energy efficiency, increasing your home energy costs.
Hard water impacts your home comfort
The wrong type of water can have a major impact on your home’s comfort. Here are just some of the ways that this type of water can negatively impact your home:
- Your laundry will be stiff and dingy because detergents do not work well with mineral-heavy water. In addition, the minerals in the water, over time, wear down the colors in your favorite outfits.
- Your skin will be drier, itchier, and harder to deal with, and you’ll feel like your hair is under attack. Hard water can aggravate symptoms of eczema.
- Soap, shampoo, and conditioners will work less effectively and you’ll need to use more of them with each shower to get the same results you would have had otherwise with softened water.
How can a water softener help?
As the name implies, water softeners remove the minerals that make water hard, rendering it soft. Water softeners are popular here in Fresno because of our exceptionally hard water.
A water softener is a good long-term investment to protect your appliances, water heater, and home plumbing. Plus, it’ll make your skin and hair feel great!
Call Allbritten to learn about our whole-house water treatment systems
At Allbritten, we’re proud to install HALO whole-house water filtration and treatment systems here in Fresno. The HALO 5 system is considered one of the best on the market. It not only operates as a water softener but also cleans and purifies your water with some of the best technology available.
If you’re interested in learning more about our HALO systems and how your home can drink clean, softened water, call Allbritten at (559) 601-0833 or contact our team online to schedule your free in-home estimate on a new system.
