When we are at home, we want to provide our family with the safest, healthiest water possible. Whether you have a tank or use the city water, you want to feel secure in the water that your family used to shower in, wash with, drink, and more. However, do you know for sure that your home’s water is safe coming from the local municipal water systems or local water department? There are a few things to consider before deciding on a water softening system for your home.
Start with getting your home’s water tested. These tests are the best way to determine whether you need a water softener, and water testing kits can be found at home improvement centers and hardware stores. You can also contact your local water department to find out the local hardness of the area’s water as they often test the water to keep yourself and your community safe. If you feel the numbers are “too hard” for your family’s water, you can invest in a water softening system for your home.
There are physical signs that are indicative of a home plumbing system that may need a home water softener. Hard water leaves behind specific physical feature, such as ugly stains on your appliances. Look for hard water stains on sinks, bathtubs, and toilets, and also for white, scaly deposits that buildup around the faucets. Scale buildup can also buildup on and around your shower head, dishwasher, washing machine, dishwasher, and virtually any appliance that uses water. You do not always need to jump into expensive repairs, but mineral buildup can be cleaned with white vinegar and a soft cloth.
Another indicator that your home may need a home water softening system is a steadily rising or a high utility bill. When scale builds up over time, it clogs pipes, and when this happens, your home’s heating system has to work hard to produce the necessary energy. Scale and mineral buildup, in summary, can dramatically affect the energy-efficiency of boilers, furnaces, and hot water heaters, causing your energy bills to suddenly sky-rocket - and stay high. Other indicators of hard water in the home are dry skin and hair, gray or faded laundry and increased issues with your water heater.
If you are considering a water softening system but are not sure about whether your home’s system really needs it, ask around to family and friends to hire a trusted plumber in Fishers to have your water tested.