Difference Between Hard Water and Soft Water
The water we use daily can typically be divided into two categories. Water can be hard, or soft, depending on the mineral content of the water.
What is Hard Water?
Hard water has a higher mineral content in contrast to soft water. The water gathers this mineral content when water in it's pure form, like rain water for example, travels and then seeps into the ground.
The ground helps purify the water and give it mineral content. Hard water is the most commonly used form of water in Indianapolis homes.
What is Soft Water?
Soft water has a lesser mineral content than hard water. Water is soft until it seeps into the ground where it collects minerals.
Hard water is commonly softened for a variety of purposes. There are different ways to soften water, the most common method is by adding sodium ions to the water.
Advantages and Disadvantages
There are advantages and disadvantages to both soft and hard water. The advantages of hard water are found when it is used as drinking water.
The minerals found in hard water are important to your health, and also play a role in making hard water taste better.
However, soaps interact differently with the mineral content of hard water. This can case soap to feel like a layer of film over your skin, not getting you as clean as it should be and also possibly interfering with your Ph balance. Soft water allows you to feel cleaner, and softer after bathing.
Soft water also has many benefits to the plumbing in your house. Hard water can cause limescale build up on the pipes and appliances in your house. This build up is unsightly and can cause the lifespan of appliances to shorten.
Scale and mineral buildup can also cause permanent damage to your pipes and disrupt the flow of water in your Indianapolis home. Soft water is also more beneficial to your clothing. The lack of minerals allow your clothes to wash deeper and more efficiently which helps prolong their life.
If you are experiencing any issues while bathing, with your laundry, or with the pipes and drainage systems in your home, consider the water softening options and choose the best solution for you.
Knowing the differences between hard & soft water in your Indianapolis home is important. For more info, call Griesemer Plumbing & Mechanical at (317) 881-9536 today!
