Hard Water vs Soft Water

Water plays a part in our daily lives as we clean dishes, wash clothes, take showers or grab a glass to quench our thirst. For the amount that we use it, it should be safe and viable for our household. But not all water is created equal. Hard water is present in over 85% of homes in the United States!

You may have heard of hard and soft water, but do you know what the difference between the two actually is? Kinetico SA knows hard water inside and out, and we think you should too! We’ve got the honest answers to all your had water questions, and we have to solution to your hard water irritations.

Hard Water

Water defined as “hard” has an increased percentage of dissolved deposits like magnesium and calcium. Here in San Antonio and the Hill Country, we have some of the hardest water in the entire country. The minerals found in hard water are often left behind and lead to clogged plumbing or boiler issues, which can eventually lead to overheating. Using hard water at home can also cause adverse effects to your cleaning regimen as it is the blame for the dull look your clothes seem to have. Hard water can also have a negative impact on your glasses and dishes, in addition to your hair and skin.

Scale Build-Up

When you use hard water for cleaning, you will notice streak marks and stains left on your dishes and even your sink fixtures. This is due to the hard water heating up and causing calcium deposits to form. If this begins to build up, it can leave lasting damage to the performance and longevity of your appliances. Calcium buildup can occur on your pipes, sink fixtures and even your coffee machine. Your electricity bill will increase with your appliances beginning to wear down due to scale buildup. 

Soft Water

Water defined as “soft” uses the process of ion exchange to remove minerals like calcium and magnesium. While the amount of sodium in soft water is higher than that of hard water, no deposits or stains are left behind when it’s used. Those who use soft water in their homes often notice a difference in the way soap lathers while doing laundry or a load of dishes. The difference between soft water and hard water is especially evident while accomplishing household chores. Your skin and hair will also be softer and shinier without mineral buildup sucking the moisture away.

Do You Have Hard Water?

Does your home have hard water? Keep an eye out for the common signs you may have hard water in your home. Even if you aren’t feeling the effects on your body, your home certainly will. Protecting your home from harsh mineral buildup could actually cave you a lot of money and stress in the future.

Now you know what makes hard water different from soft water, but there’s even more to learn. For example, your water can vary in hardness. How is hard water measured? You can purchase a testing kit online, but we offer a free water test to residents of San Antonio and the hill country!

San Antonio Water Softening Solutions

The solution to hard water is to invest in a water softener. A water filtration system, or softening system, uses resin to coat the hard water in order to soften it. Having a water softener will help your appliances work better and last longer, saving you money in the long run. Kinetico water systems offer you better and healthier water in a way that can save you money and energy. If you are in need of a water softener, contact Kinetico SA today.