What is Hard Water and Why Does It Matter to Homeowners?

In this brief article brought to you by Texas Rooter, we break down what hard water is, why it matters more than you think, and how to protect your home and plumbing system for the long haul. If you'd rather leave the investigating to a trained plumber, then call Texas Rooter to hire a uniformed professional.

What Is Hard Water, Anyway?

In simple terms, hard water is water with a high concentration of minerals (mainly calcium and magnesium). These minerals naturally occur in the soil and rock that your water might flow through before reaching your faucet. So, if you’re pulling water in an area with mineral-rich ground, then chances are your water is “hard.”

While it’s not inherently dangerous to drink, hard water can wreak havoc on your plumbing system, appliances, and even your skin and hair. Think of it like cholesterol buildup in arteries... it doesn’t block the flow all at once, but it causes real problems over time.

The Common Signs of Hard Water

Not sure if you have hard water? Here are a few telltale signs:

• White spots and streaks on clean dishes or glasses
• Dull and dingy laundry despite using detergent
• Low water pressure or clogged fixtures
• Soap scum buildup in showers and sinks
• Dry, itchy skin or flat and brittle hair after bathing

These symptoms might seem minor on their own, but they point to a much larger issue underneath the surface.

How Hard Water Affects Your Plumbing

Those minerals don’t just stick to your faucets and shower doors. They build up inside your pipes and appliances. Over time, this scale narrows the interior of pipes and hoses to reduce water flow and increase the risk of clogs and leaks. It’s like forcing your plumbing and appliances to run a marathon with a weighted vest. They might push through for a while, but they’ll break down sooner than they should.

The Hidden Costs of Doing Nothing

If you ignore hard water, you could be paying for it in more ways than one. For instance, appliances might act up more often than normal - and they might completely break down sooner than expected. Your water heater, for example, will also use more energy to heat the same amount of water to the same temperature.

Don't wait for premature pipe corrosion and a leaking water line. Tackle the root cause of hard water for a long-lasting peace of mind. A water softener installation can pay for itself in the long-term.

How a Water Softener Can Help

A water softener is designed specifically to target hard water - who would've thought? It replaces excess calcium and magnesium ions in the water with sodium or potassium ions. The result? Water that’s “softer” on your pipes, fixtures, appliances, hair, skin, dishes, and laundry.

Professional Installation Matters

Water softener systems aren’t a one-size-fits-all solution. Factors like your water usage, home size, and plumbing setup all affect which type of system is right for you. Plus, the installation involves more than mounting a device onto the faucet.

At Texas Rooter, we start with a full evaluation of your water quality and plumbing system to help you select the right softener for your needs. When it comes time for installation, we employ advanced technique and tools for precision and long-lasting results.

Need a Plumbing Repair? Call Now

Whether it's due to hard water or not, plumbing emergencies can't wait for "regular" business hours. If you need emergency plumbing repair service in Irving, TX, then contact Texas Rooter to speak with a member of our team. Our live representatives and dedicated plumbers are on standby to take your call or message today.