Signs You Have Hard Water

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In our world, it’s hard to know what’s going on with the tap water that’s coming through your faucet. You can control the environment of your home, and what appliances the water flows through, but you can’t control the minerals that water picks up as it works its way through the ground into our waterways. Our water is often full of various minerals - but the ones we’re most worried about are calcium and magnesium. According to a U.S Geological Survey, 85% of Americans have hard water in their homes. These minerals, while great for you when properly absorbed, are extremely hard on your home. Here are some signs that you may have hard water and need to invest in a water softener:

• Constant plumbing issues. This one is a big deal, because the limescale build up can eventually completely inhibit the flow of water in your home. Even a tiny amount of limescale build up can be problematic, as over time it will escalate. As the limescale builds up, it narrows your pipes creating a slower flow, which allows the minerals to settle even faster.
• There’s scale build up. If you’re noticing that there’s a layer of white substance ringing your bathtub, your toilet, or your tea kettle, you have hard water. Once water evaporates, it leaves behind the minerals, creating unappealing rings on your appliances.
• Brittle glassware and damaged dishes. Just like with your appliances, hard water build up gets at your nice glasses. The same scale that builds up in your appliances can also leave a residue on your eating utensils.
• Dry skin, and brittle hair. These can be caused by multiple different things in the home, but if minerals settle on your skin or hair it leaves behind a residue that blocks the good nutrients from entering your pores and follicles.
• Faded clothing. If you’ve noticed that your clothing is faded, or your bed sheets look a little grey, it could be attributed to the minerals in your water.
• Expensive water bill. If your water bill has suddenly gone up a lot, it could be due to having hard water. The minerals in your water make it more difficult for water to flow.

    There are many things on the market geared to help you deal with the aftermath of hard water. Things that you can put through your pipes, and run in your dishwasher, or use to clean your tub. The best course of action though, would be purchasing a water softener. A water softener will stop the problem from happening, and could potentially save you thousands in plumbing repairs and cleaning agents. Stick to the basics, use some white vinegar to clear out that bathtub ring, and leave the rest to the professionals. Call Tony’s Plumbing for quotes on water softener installation, upgrades, or any general service, today!

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