Hard water affects approximately 85% of American homes, including many right here in the Birmingham area. In fact, you may already be familiar with some of its detrimental effects, but what does it really mean to have hard water?
The Science of Water Hardness
The hardness of water refers to the amount of dissolved minerals it contains, with higher concentrations producing “”harder”” water. The most common of these minerals are calcium and magnesium, although aluminum, iron and manganese are also not uncommon in some areas. These minerals typically originate in the large underground deposits of limestone, gypsum and chalk found throughout much of the United States.
As water seeps into the ground and percolates through these deposits, it dissolves the porous rock, generating mostly calcium and magnesium ions. In particular, water hardness is usually assessed by measuring the concentration of calcium carbonate in grams per gallon (gpg) or milligrams per liter (mg/L). Though precise classifications vary, the widely accepted United States Geological Survey standard is as follows:
- Soft: 0-60 mg/L or 0-3.5 gpg
- Moderately hard: 61-120 mg/L or 3.56–7.01 gpg
- Hard: 121–180 mg/L or 7.06–10.51 gpg
- Very hard: ≥181 mg/L or ≥10.57 gpg
Identifying the Signs of Hard Water
Whether you rely on a private well or a municipal hookup, hard water can come from virtually any source. So, how do you know if your home has hard water? One option is to have your water tested by a qualified professional, which can help you identify specific issues that may need to be addressed. In many cases, however, it’s as simple as looking for a few telltale signs.
Among the most recognizable indicators is a characteristic white residue that often appears on and around faucets, sinks, showers, and other fixtures. Known as hard water stains, these chalky residues are caused by the minerals left behind when hard water evaporates. You may also notice similar spots forming elsewhere, including on dishes, glassware, coffee makers, and other wet surfaces that are left to dry.
Depending on the specific composition and concentration of minerals, hard water can also have an off-putting odor or taste. Water that contains a lot of sulfate ions typically has a distinctively foul smell that many people compare to rotten eggs. Not surprisingly, high concentrations of iron and other metals may give water a sharp, metallic taste. Some hard water supplies even have a musty, earthy smell or taste.
Is Hard Water Bad for Your Health?
It might not be pleasant, but according to the World Health Organization, drinking hard water carries no known adverse health effects. In fact, it may even serve as a dietary source for some of the essential minerals your body needs to stay healthy. While excessive consumption was once believed to cause an increase in kidney stone formation, more recent studies have found no clear link.
Nonetheless, it’s not all good news. Regularly bathing in hard water alters the layer of natural oils protecting your skin, turning it thick and waxy. This can clog your pores, cause changes in your complexion, exacerbate dermatological conditions and leave your skin feeling dry and itchy. Dissolved minerals also make water more alkaline, throwing your skin’s normal pH balance out of whack and reducing its ability to resist bacteria and inhibit body odor. Hard water can cause similar damage to your hair, making it brittle and frizzy and robbing it of its natural shine.
How Hard Water Affects Your Home
Although hard water won’t make you physically sick, it can be a serious headache around the house. That’s because it tends to leave behind mineral deposits wherever it goes — including inside your plumbing. As these deposits build up in your pipes over time, they gradually constrict the space through which water can flow. Not only does this reduce water pressure in your home, but it also increases the risk of damage and corrosion.
The effects on water heaters can be even worse. In fact, hard water can reduce the efficiency of your water heater by up to 25%, resulting in slower heating, more water waste, and higher monthly utility bills. Storage tank heaters are especially susceptible to mineral buildup, requiring regular flushing and servicing to maintain normal operation. Other appliances that use water, such as dishwashers, washing machines, and refrigerators, may also experience increased wear and tear.
What’s more, the mineral ions dissolved in hard water readily interact with many common household cleaning agents. This interferes with foaming and reduces the effectiveness of soaps and detergents. It also produces soap scum, a thin, sticky film that adheres to skin, hair, and clothing and can actually seal in dirt, bacteria, and other substances.
Mitigating the Effects of Hard Water
Hard water is nothing but trouble for most Birmingham-area residents, but you don’t have to let a little dissolved calcium wreak havoc in your home. If you’re dealing with these issues, there are several steps you can take to minimize the detrimental effects of hard water and enjoy an improved quality of life.
Stay Ahead of Scale and Soap Scum
Mineral and soap scum deposits require frequent cleaning to prevent buildup, yet hard water renders most cleaning products ineffective. It’s a real pickle, but you can find the solution right in your pantry. Ordinary vinegar is a safe and natural cleaner that’s fabulously effective at breaking up tough stains and deposits on fixtures and other surfaces. Got a clogged showerhead or faucet aerator? Simply soak it in vinegar overnight and you’ll be good to go. Vinegar can even be used to periodically descale your coffee maker, extending its lifespan and keeping your coffee tasty.
Use Specialized Cleaning Products
While hard water and detergents typically don’t mix, some products are specially formulated to be less reactive with mineral ions. This can help keep your laundry and dishes cleaner and reduce the formation of soap scum. As a result, choosing the right cleaning products may also limit the wear and tear on your dishwasher and washing machine.
Install a Water Softener System
To truly eliminate hard water issues, there’s no better solution than investing in a dedicated water softener. These devices are designed to treat the problem at its source, extracting unwanted minerals and providing a continuous supply of soft, high-quality water whenever and wherever you need it. There are several types of water softener systems available, so it’s wise to consult a professional to determine the best solution for your particular needs.
Hard water is a frustrating and potentially expensive problem, but you can solve it once and for all with one call to Benjamin Franklin Plumbing. Schedule an expert consultation today to see how we deliver the right water softening solution at the right price.