Too Many Minerals?

Hard water is a problem in many homes, but what causes it, and how do you know if you have hard water in your home?

Water has traveled a long way before it reaches your home. It trickles down through soil and rocks, and as it does so, it absorbs different minerals such as magnesium and calcium. Hard water is the result of a high concentration of those minerals in the water. If you are unsure whether your home has hard water, there are some tests that can be done to find out its mineral content. Before you do that, though, there are probably already some tell-tale signs. Hard water will cause a ring of mineral deposits around faucets and toilet bowls etc. which can be very difficult to remove. You will also notice layers of soap scum in sinks and tubs.

Your household appliances will also suffer the effects of hard water. Scaly white deposits will build up in kettles and pots. Hard water can also make your laundry appear dull-looking and begin to wear out more quickly (although this will depend on water temperature and PH levels). You may also experience some serious consequences if limescale builds up in pipes and solar heating.

If you have noticed any of these signs in your home, then you probably have hard water. But is hard water something you need to worry about? We will discuss this next time.