A major factor in your home’s water quality is its "hardness." This affects the taste and even whether droplets will leave residue behind when they dry. Water softeners are available for homes with hard water issues, but many homeowners aren’t aware of what the term actually means. Here's a closer look at how hard and soft water differ.

Hard Water

When the supply coming into the home has a high mineral content, primarily calcium and magnesium, it's considered to be hard water. Some municipal sources provide water high in minerals, and most private wells also produce it. 

Drinking hard water is not harmful, and some people don't mind the taste. However, because the mineral content is so high, trace amounts of calcium and magnesium are left behind when the water evaporates, which build up as tough, discolored mineral scale on surfaces that get wet frequently. This process leaves stains on windows, dishes, and fixtures. 

Additionally, when you use soap or detergent with hard water, the soap molecules bind with the minerals. You’ll have to use more detergent for the same amount of cleaning and may notice dull gray soap scum clinging to skin, hair, clothing, and surfaces.

Soft Water

When water has a low mineral content, it’s considered soft. It doesn’t leave behind streaks or soap scum and is healthy to drink. If your home’s tap water has excess mineral content, you can install a water softener to reduce it. 

This device uses a tiny amount of sodium to replace the minerals in your tap water through a process known as ion exchange. This is much better for your skin and hair, which will look and feel cleaner, brighter, and softer. 

It’s also better for your plumbing and appliances, with no mineral scale forming inside. You’ll spend less money on soap and detergent, and your fixtures, clothes, and dishes will be cleaner.

To add a water softener to your home's supply, choose Bishop Well & Pump Service. For almost 80 years, this licensed well drilling contractor has offered high-quality water filter installation using up-to-date, environmentally friendly equipment to families throughout Tift County, GA. To get an estimate, call (229) 382-6117. Learn more about this equipment online.