Difference Between Hard Water and Soft Water

You may find that you have to use a lot of soap to get lather or to feel clean with your home’s water. You may also notice your skin feels dry and that a film is being left behind in your tub, sinks, and on your Winchester home dishes.

So why do other people have water that creates plenty of bubbles and leaves everything sparkling clean? It depends on whether you have hard or soft water. Knowing how to tell the difference is the first step in making sure you have the best water possible for your Winchester home’s needs.

Hard Water

Hard water contains a high mineral content consisting of magnesium and calcium. This type of water picks up minerals as it flows between soft rocks underground.

Although it has been proven harmless for consumption, there are many disadvantages to having hard water in your home.

Hard water is rough on clothes, wearing them out quickly. You’ll also find soap won’t lather or bubble as nicely as with soft water, and a film is left behind on dishes after washing them.

It can even become costly. Galvanic erosion and lime scale build-up caused by hard water can create problems within your plumbing system.

Soft Water

Soft water contains a higher amount of sodium with smaller concentrations of magnesium and calcium. The rock this water travels past is harder than what the hard water goes through. The harder rock like granite is less likely to allow minerals to get into the water.

Soft water has many benefits such as being easier on clothes, skin, and dishes. Soap can generate a much richer lather that rinses off easily. This is why many homeowners prefer soft water for daily chores and bathing.

How Can I Get Soft Water in My Home?

By having us install a water softener or purification system in your home, we can greatly improve your water’s quality. It can extend the life of your appliances and fixtures while providing you with better drinking water. There are several types of conditioning and filtration systems to pick from.

• Salt Free Water Treatment
• Salt Water Softeners
• Reverse Osmosis Systems
• Pre-Filter Systems
• Point of Use Filter Systems

We can test your water’s level of hardness and then help you decide exactly which system will work best in your home.

Knowing the differences between hard & soft water in your Winchester, VA home is important. For more info, call Powells Plumbing at 540-665-8196 today!