We typically see the water clear as it can be. Yet, there are minerals and chemicals unseen through our bare eyes. When the water is highly exposed to these minerals, it develops into what we call "hard water."
Take into note that not all types of water are identified as hard water. In definition, hard water is water containing high levels of minerals. Usually, minerals such as calcium and magnesium are present in hard water.
These common ions are water-soluble, meaning they dissolve in water. Drinking water can also carry these minerals. In other places, hard water may also contain manganese or aluminum.
Of course, minerals such as calcium and magnesium are not that violently bad for our well-being. They can be good for our bodies. However, the hard water content can also carry possible harmful bacterias bad for our health.
Here are some problems you might encounter if you're using hard water.
Unpleasant water taste or smell
A strange odor or taste comes first when there's a problem with your water. If it has a metallic taste, that's probably because of too much iron.
Natural occurring hydrogen sulfate gas might be present if your water tastes rotten. Some bacterias might be reacting with magnesium to create sulfate.
Unwanted Stains
If you are getting unwanted stains, particularly on porcelains, blame it to iron. These probably come from rusty pipes. That's the reason why it's no coincidence those stains look like rust.
You might need to use extra strength to get rid of the dirt. While cleaning tools and materials are available, those stains will keep on recurring until you resolve your hard water issue.
Causes skin problems
The contaminants such as minerals in hard water react ineffectively with soap. That's why it's hard to have good soap suds when you take a shower or wash your hand. Washing off all the soap may also be a problem and leave some residue on your skin.
Soap residue may lead to dry and skin irritation. Mineral deposits may also sit in the skin and suck all the moisture. A study says that hard water can cause eczema to worsen. It can also cause clogged showerheads in the long run.
Clogged pipes
Aside from showerheads, pipes are no excuse when it comes to clogging. Unwanted water content may build up inside your water pipes.
Minerals carried by hard water will cause constriction of water supply and damage to your plumbing system. Usually, this problem occurs in old steel pipes.
The best way to kick hard water out of your home is through a water softener. Technologies like the Rayne water softener system filter out water contaminants and cleans your water at home. Hard water can be a pain in the back. With all the possible problems it can bring, hard water is not good at all, specifically for our bodies. Get rid of hard water and have a healthier and more stress-free life.
