While it is easy to assume that all water is created equal. Household water can be categorized into “hard” or “soft.” What does that mean exactly? Hard water contains a significant amount of dissolved minerals, including limestone, calcium and magnesium. These minerals are picked up through the ground and waterways after it falls as rainwater. Hard water offers healthy benefits and can also be preferred in terms of taste. So why do we soften our water?
Soft water has been treated so that the only ion is sodium. It may taste saltier than hard water, but you’ll appreciate the other differences when it comes to doing household chores. Hard water is known for causing stains and residue. You may have dingy clothes, spots on your dishes, soap scum on your bathtubs and even sticky, dull hair. Hard water doesn’t lather soap as well as soft water, so it can also be less effective in terms of cleaning.
Treating Hard Water Stains
If you have hard water, there’s a good chance you struggle with hard water stains. The best and easiest way to avoid frustrating hard water stains is to let your plumber install a whole-house water softener. But if you need to take care of the stains that are already present, try these three remedies:
- Vinegar and water solution
- Baking soda scrub
- Hydrochloric acid cleaner
Are you ready to say goodbye to your hard water problems? Contact Covenant Plumbing today. We can discuss water testing and softening solutions that are available to you.