Most water contains more than water. Almost all of the water found in the U.S. is hard water. Hard water is water that is contaminated with dissolved minerals – like calcium, magnesium, sulfur, iron, lead and limestone – that can have a negative impact on you, your household and your pocketbook. Depending on where you live, contaminants from sewage, industrial waster and agricultural run-off can also seep into your water supply.
If there are stains or buildup on your sink and bathtubs… if you have to use large amounts of soap to clean the dishes or wash your hair… or if your water tastes or smells odd, you probably have hard water. If left untreated, the minerals in hard water will cause yellow stains on plumbing fixtures and be deposited as scale, eventually clogging the plumbing and shortening the life of appliances like washing machines, water heaters and dishwashers. Scale deposits not only cut down on the efficiency of the appliances, they cost you money, increasing both energy and maintenance bills.
Water softeners eliminate the effects of hard water.
They “soften” the water by removing the calcium and magnesium found there, extending the useful life of water heaters, washing machines, dishwashers, coffeemakers, humidifiers and household plumbing systemsby as much as 30%.
Hard water can cause yellowish stains on toilets, bathroom fixtures and on clothing making them much harder to clean. Hard water can also cause skin irritation.
Soft water makes a difference you can feel and see, all over the house.
In the Bathroom: Your soap and shampoo will lather better. Your hair and skin will feel noticeably cleaner, softer, and not as dry. And there will be no soap scum or mineral deposits to clean off sinks, showers, tubs and toilets.
In the Laundry: Clothes will be softer, cleaner, whiter and brighter. Plus they will last longer. Using soft water and pure soap products increases the life of clothing, towels and linens up to 33%. Without hard water service issues, washing machines last longer, too.
In the Kitchen: Dishes will clean up more easily, and be spot free, without the gray film glasses get when etched by mineral-laden water. Plus hands will feel softer and look better.
Throughout the House: Water-using appliances will last longer and run better. Why? Because hot water heaters, washing machines and dishwashers used with hard water can wear out 30% faster.