Signs of Hard Water in a Home

Hard water, or water full of dissolved minerals, is not necessarily bad in and of itself. It forms all the beautiful natural structures in caves, such as stalactites and stalagmites. The minerals contained are typically calcium and magnesium, which are not harmful to people. Some consider mineral water a luxury that tastes better than regular water. Hard water does cause problems and inconveniences for home appliances and plumbing systems. 

Signs of hard water are far from difficult to find. Just a bit of observation will let a homeowner know if hard water is a problem in their plumbing system.

What Can Be Seen?

One of the quickest ways to check for hard water in a home is to look at the faucets and fixtures. Because, as with the mineral formations in caves, the substances dissolved in the water sometimes crystallize. Here are a few examples of what a homeowner will see when their home is plagued by hard water:

• Crystals: Chalky, white deposits show up on faucets and drains, looking similar to soap scum.
• Clogged Showerhead: If all of the spouts or settings on a home’s showerhead don’t seem to work as they did, there may be mineral buildup inside.
• Soap Scum: Soap tends to be very difficult to remove with hard water, and the soap then creates a translucent film on bath and shower that makes a surface appear uneven and dingy because it forms a bond with the calcium that is present. 
• Spots on Dishes: Hard water tends to leave those cloudy water spots on glasses and plates. 

What Can Be Felt?

• Dry Skin: If a person’s skin is continually exposed to hard water, it tends to be drier and itchy. If someone has ever gone swimming in a chlorinated pool or even the ocean, they can relate to this feeling.
• Clothes: Clothing washed in hard water tends to show more damage and can have mineral stains. It also tends to be scratchier on the skin. 
• Hands: Does a homeowner find that their hands feel filmy after washing them? Hard water makes soap harder to rinse.

What Happens To Pipes?

Pipes are another major source of evidence of hard water, and they are probably the most affected by it. These are the results of the mineral buildup caused by hard water on a home’s pipes:

• Low Water Pressure
• Broken Pipes
• Cracked or Leaking pipes

About Vern Kummers Plumbing, Inc. 

Over 40 years of competitive pricing and award-winning service make Vern Kummers Plumbing, Inc. the company to call in the Green Bay, WI area. With highly trained and efficient technicians who are thoroughly background checked, customers can rest assured. Call today for all plumbing needs.

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