Hard Water vs. Soft Water: What to Do

 Water is essential to our daily lives, but the quality of the water we use can significantly impact various aspects of our daily routines. Hard water and soft water are two common types that differ in their mineral content, and understanding these differences can help you decide what steps to take to make better use of water in your home.

What is hard water?

Hard water refers to water that has a high concentration of dissolved minerals, mainly calcium and magnesium. These minerals are naturally found in the earth and are picked up by water as it moves through soil and rock. This process results in water that can leave behind mineral buildup—also known as "scale"—on plumbing fixtures, household appliances, and even on your hair and skin after bathing. 

What is soft water?

Soft water, on the other hand, contains fewer dissolved minerals, particularly calcium and magnesium. It is found naturally in areas where the water source does not absorb many minerals or is treated artificially using a water softening system. Soft water does not leave behind limescale deposits, thus reducing the risk of damaging appliances and plumbing over time.

The Effects of Hard Water

Although hard water doesn't pose a health risk, it does come with several disadvantages. A noticeable issue is the accumulation of limescale. Over time, these mineral deposits can block pipes, harm water heaters, and decrease the performance of appliances such as washing machines and dishwashers. You might find that soap doesn’t produce as much lather, which can leave a film on your skin and hair. 

The Benefits of Soft Water

In contrast, soft water is much gentler on your skin, hair, and clothing. It helps soap and shampoo lather more easily, leaving you feeling cleaner and your skin softer and smoother. Soft water also reduces the chances of limescale buildup in your pipes, which can help extend the lifespan of your plumbing and appliances. As a result, using soft water can be more economical over time, as it reduces the need for frequent repairs or replacements caused by mineral accumulation.

What to Do About Hard Water

If you live in an area with hard water, there are a few things you can consider to mitigate the effects. Installing a water softener is one of the most effective ways to reduce mineral content and turn hard water into soft water. Water softeners use a process called ion exchange, replacing calcium and magnesium ions with sodium or potassium ions, which are less likely to cause limescale.

Alternatively, if a full softening system isn't an option, there are more suitable solutions, such as water filters or descalers, that can help reduce mineral buildup in specific appliances or faucets. You can also use cleaning products specifically for hard water, such as descalers, to prevent mineral buildup in appliances such as dishwashers and water heaters. Call Emergency Plumber in Newcastle.