Water is defined as “hard” if it is high in dissolved minerals, usually calcium and magnesium. In hard water, soap reacts with the water’s high calcium content to form “soap scum.” Usually more soap or detergent is needed to get things clean in hard water than in soft water. When hard water is heated, the calcium in it can be deposited on showers, sinks, and dishes, as well as in pipes, water heaters, washers, dishwashers, and coffee makers. These deposits are called “scale.” Over time the built up scale can affect performance and efficiency.

Using a water softener can prevent the buildup of damaging hard water scale. Water softeners typically use an ion exchange system to replace the water-hardening calcium and magnesium with “soft” sodium ions. Most systems can remove fluoride; some can also remove iron and manganese, which stain fixtures. Systems may also remove heavy metals and naturally occurring minerals found in water such as arsenic, sulfate, chromium, and selenium. Water softener systems cannot remove protozoa, bacteria, or viruses.

Freedom Plumbing and Drain can help you determine what minerals are in your water, and if a water softener system would be beneficial for your home.