Do I Need a Water Softener?

Most of the United States has hard water to some degree. Hard water is water that contains a high mineral content, most commonly calcium and magnesium. Hard water can leave your hair looking dry and dull and your skin feeling itchy and flakey, and that’s only what it does to your body. In your home, hard water mineral build-up on showerheads and faucets causes them to lose efficiency and function, and etching and spotting on your glassware makes it look like you never even ran the dishwasher. Here are some of the most common signs of hard water:

• dry, itchy, flakey skin and unmanageable, uncooperative hair due to soap that doesn’t lather or rinse away completely
• dull, rough, or stiff clothes and linens from washing in hard water
• white, chalky, scaly buildup on dishes, faucets, and shower doors
• excessive use of soaps and detergents to counter the effects of hard water
• lower water pressure and clogged faucets due to mineral buildup
• appliance inefficiency, especially dishwashers and hot water heaters
• more frequent replacement of water-using appliances
• increased energy costs because appliances are working harder

How Do I Get Rid of Hard Water?

The easiest way to get rid of hard water in your home or business is by installing a water softener. A water softener is connected to the incoming water supply and uses salt and its positive ion properties to remove calcium and magnesium from the water. The resulting softened water alleviates the effects of hard water and provides enjoyable benefits, such as:

• smoother, softer hair and skin
• longer lasting pipes and appliances
• softer fabrics and brighter colors after washing
• significantly less scale buildup, stains, and soap residue on sinks, showers, and dishes
• up to 20% yearly savings on energy due to greater water heating efficiency

The typical payback period is from two to four years, depending on water consumption, and the cost is recouped through the longer life of your appliances, the use of less soap and detergents, and the use of less energy. So, while installing a water softener is an upfront investment, the immediate and long-term benefits make it well worth the cost.

To learn more about IT Landes water softeners and plumbing services, call us at 215-256-4221 or click here. You can also download our Water Softener Advantages , a quick guide to helping you decide if it’s time to consider a water softener.