You might have heard the term "hard water" before and you might have even seen the effects it can have on your plumbing. But many people still don't understand exactly what it means or how to fix the problem.
All water unless it has been purified has bits of dissolved minerals in it, such as magnesium, iron, or copper, picked up from rocks and soil over time. While this sounds alarming, some of these minerals in small doses can actually be healthy. That's why some people drink mineral water.
But if the water from your local municipality has too many minerals in it, it is considered "hard water" and this mineral-packed water can cause a number of potential problems for your plumbing in Springfield Missouri.
Damage To Plumbing Fixtures
Hard water can be tough on your plumbing fixtures. If you’ve seen faucets that are discolored or rusty, hard water is likely the culprit. It can slowly but surely eat through the coating around drains, faucets, and shower heads. Rubber washers can be damaged as well, causing leaks and other issues.
Shower Head Clogs
Have you ever noticed less water coming from your shower head over time? Mineral deposits can clog the holes and reduce your water pressure. It usually happens so slowly that it’s hard to notice, but once you clean the shower head, the difference in water pressure can make a big difference.
Soap Scum
Soap and hard water do not mix as well as softened water and the end result is that you have to use more soap to clean things and sinks and tubs get covered in a soapy film. This is due to the hard water preventing soap from dissolving completely. It can also lead to spots and streaks on your dishes after washing and it’s an unpleasant sight.
Appliance Damage
Appliances in your home can also suffer damage from hard water. For example, sediment from hard water can build up in the bottom of a water heater and rust it out over time and require the need to have your water heater replaced. The more sediment that builds up inside your water heater, the less room the tank has for actual water.
Thankfully, hard water is something that can be easily rectified with the installation of a water softener from a professional plumber in Springfield, Missouri.
If hard water or any other type of plumbing problems are causing you grief, United Plumbing is available around the clock to help.