Most homes in America - about 85 percent - use a hard water supply. While hard water isn't bad for your health, the excess minerals can be troublesome for your plumbing and appliances. One way to prevent these problems from happening is to get a water softener. Water softeners filter hard water before it can cause harm, removing minerals and other debris that can wreak havoc.
Cleaner Flatware and Glassware
Hard water generally produces white streaks or residue on dishes and glasses, even if you carefully wash them. However, with a water softener, the deposits that cause this residue are removed before they can make their way onto your dishes.
Reduced Soap Scum
A water softener can also help to keep your tubs, sinks, and showers cleaner. This is because it reduces the formation of soap scum, making it so much easier to have a sparkling kitchen and bathroom. Not only that, but getting rid of the excess minerals in your water helps soap and shampoo to lather better, reducing your consumption of these products and saving you a lot of money in the long run.
Soft Skin and Cleaner Hair
Using hard water when bathing can leave your skin and hair feeling grimy and coarse. This is because excess calcium and iron get trapped on your body. Water softeners help eliminate this problem, leaving you with hair and skin that feels smooth, soft, and much cleaner.
Faster Water Heating
If your water heater takes forever to heat up your water, the problem might stem from your hard water supply. According to the Virginia Cooperative Extension, water softeners can help improve the efficiency of water heaters by up to 29 percent. Not only does that make taking a hot shower much more convenient, but it also helps you save big dollars on your energy bill.
Extended Life of Appliances
Just like hard water can build up a layer of grime on your skin, it can also do the same with your appliances. Over time, these minerals build up until they stop the device from working. The lifespan of appliances that use water, such as the dishwasher, washing machine, or even a coffee pot, can be drastically extended if you use a water softener.
Less Clogged Pipes
Your plumbing system is not immune to the buildup of minerals deposits. Over time, these can completely clog your pipes, leading to system backups and slow drainage. Even worse, they can corrode away the surface of the pipe, causing leaks and severe water damage. Using a water softener can help reduce these problems and keep your plumbing system in good health.
If you're ready to add a water softener to your home, don't hesitate to contact David Gray Plumbing Services. We can help you find the right water softener for your needs and then install it to ensure everything is working as it should.