Is Hard Water Harming Your Home? An In-depth Exploration

Posted on September 11, 2023 by weilhammerplumbing

Living in a home with hard water can be more than just a minor inconvenience. It can lead to a multitude of issues, ranging from aesthetic concerns, such as unsightly water spots on dishes and fixtures, to more serious, potentially damaging effects on your plumbing and appliances.

In this blog post, we’ll delve into the often overlooked problem of hard water, discussing the signs to watch out for and how you can protect your home. We will also explore the use of hard water test strips to accurately identify the hardness level of your water and discuss the benefits of water softening solutions. Let’s embark on this informational journey to ensure the well-being of both your home and your family’s health.

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Facts About Hard Water

Hard water is a term used to describe water with a high mineral content, usually caused by calcium and magnesium. This combination of minerals decreases the effectiveness of soaps and detergents, creating soap scum buildup in your bathtub, sink or toilet. In addition, it can give off an unpleasant odor and cause discoloration on fixtures like sinks and faucets.

Signs of Hard Water in Your Home

The most common signs of hard water are the mineral deposits left on dishes, fixtures, and clothing after washing. These white spots or streaks are unsightly and can be difficult to remove. Other telltale signs include:

▷ Increased Utility Bills
▷ Plumbed Appliance Breakdowns
▷ Low Lathering Soap
▷ Poor Rinsing Results
▷ Residue on Dishes and Glassware
▷ A Slippery or Slimy Feeling on The Skin After Bathing
▷ Itchy Skin
▷ Shampoo Residue in Hair
▷ Dandruff
▷ Stiff Or Dingy Laundry
▷ Clogged Shower Heads and Faucets

Using Hard Water Test Strips

If you’re uncertain about whether your home has hard water, a simple test can provide an accurate measurement. Hard water test strips are available at most hardware and home improvement stores. They are easy to use and provide a numerical reading of the water’s hardness level.

You can also use a plastic bottle to test for water hardness. Simply fill a clear, plastic bottle with tap water from your kitchen faucet. Next, add a few drops of liquid dish soap. Tighten the cap and vigorously shake the bottle for 15 seconds. Set the bottle down and see how long the water stays bubbly. The faster the soap bubbles disappear, the harder your water. You see, hard water makes it difficult for soap to lather. If your water is soft, the soap bubbles should form easily and stay developed for several minutes.

The Benefits of Water Softening Solutions

If you’ve identified that your home has hard water, one of the most popular solutions is to install a water softening system such as a water softener. These systems work by replacing calcium and magnesium with sodium or potassium, resulting in softer water. Soft water is easier on your plumbing system, reducing the occurrence of mineral buildup and extending the lifespan of your appliances. It also results in softer, smoother skin and hair, as well as cleaner and brighter laundry. Additionally, soft water requires less detergent and soap and is overall an Eco-friendlier option.

Protect Your Home from Hard Water Damage

Knowing the signs of hard water and regularly testing your home’s water are essential steps to keeping your home and appliances in top condition. If you find that your home has hard water, installing a quality water softener is an effective solution for achieving softer, healthier water. Taking these precautions will ensure the well-being of both your home and your family’s health.

It’s important to note that while water softening can be beneficial for reducing hard water damage, it is not a cure-all. Regular maintenance of your plumbing system, such as flushing the water heater once a year and having corroded pipes replaced, is important for keeping appliances and fixtures in peak condition. Investing in regular inspections by a qualified plumber will help ensure that you get the most out of your home’s water supply.

If you have any further questions about water softeners or hard water treatment, feel free to reach out! Contact Weilhammer Plumbing Company at 317-784-1870 for water softener sales, service, and installation in Indianapolis, Indiana. Our knowledgeable master plumbers and plumbing techs are here to help. We look forward to hearing from you soon.

10 Tips for Hard Water Management in Homes

Posted on July 5, 2023 by weilhammerplumbing

Hard water is a common issue for many homes, leading to limescale buildup on fixtures, soap scum in showers and bathtubs, and other unsightly results. Hard water also makes it more difficult to clean dishes and clothes. Fortunately, there are ways of managing hard water so that your home can be free from the effects of limescale buildup. Here are 10 tips for proper hard water management in your home:

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How to Deal With Hard Water at Home

1. Test Your Water: The first step in hard water management is to test your water for hardness. This will give you an idea of what type of solution you need to implement in order to reduce problems associated with hard water.

2. Invest in a Water Softener System: A water softener system is one of the best solutions for treating hard water, plus reducing limescale buildup and other effects of hard water. These systems use ion exchange technology to remove minerals from the water, making it softer and easier to clean dishes and clothes.

3. Use a Descaler: If you don’t want to invest in a full-fledged softening system, a descaling device can be used as an alternative solution for managing hard water. Descalers work by using magnets to reduce the amount of minerals in hard water and can be a great way to reduce limescale buildup without having to invest in a full-fledged softening system.

4. Install an Acid Neutralizer: Acid neutralizers are another solution for managing hard water. These systems use calcium carbonate media to raise the pH of the water, reducing its hardness and making it easier to clean dishes and clothes.

5. Perform Regular Maintenance: Regular maintenance is essential for keeping your hard water management system running smoothly. Make sure you inspect your system regularly and change out any parts or filters that need replacing. This will help keep your water softener system running at peak efficiency and ensure that it lasts longer.

6. Install a Reverse Osmosis System: Reverse osmosis systems are effective at removing minerals and other impurities from hard water, making it softer and easier to clean dishes and clothes. This type of system is more expensive than other options, but can be worth the investment if you’re looking for a long-term solution.

7. Use a Limescale Remover: If your home already has limescale buildup, using a limescale remover can help reduce its effects. These products use acidic solutions to dissolve built up limescale, making it easier to remove with regular cleaning.

8. Regularly Clean Fixtures: In order to keep limescale from building up on fixtures around your home (such as sinks, faucets, and shower heads), make sure to regularly clean them with a limescale-fighting product. This will help reduce the amount of buildup that accumulates over time.

9. Use Filtered Water for Drinking: If you’re concerned about hard water impacting the taste of your drinking water, consider using a filtration system or bottled water instead. This can help ensure you’re getting the best tasting water possible without having to worry about hard water issues.

10. Speak to Professionals: Finally, if you have concerns about managing hard water in your home, it’s always best to speak to professionals who can advise on the best solutions for your specific situation. Pros like Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. can provide expert advice and help you find the best solution for your home.

Get Softer Water Today!

By following these tips, you can ensure that your home is free from hard water problems and that you’re able to properly manage any potential problems associated with hard water. With proper management, you can keep your fixtures looking great and make sure that dishes and clothes are being cleaned more effectively. So don’t wait – start managing your hard water today!

Are you looking for a fast and effective way to get rid of hard water at home or the office? Contact Weilhammer Plumbing Company at 317-784-1870 for water softener sales, service, and installation in Indianapolis, Indiana. We serve both residential and commercial clients with top-notch service.

Is It Worth Installing a New Water Softening System?

Posted on April 24, 2023 by weilhammerplumbing

Are you tired of hard water? Do you want to improve the quality of your drinking water, and make cleaning easier? Installing a new water softening system may just be the answer. Water softeners are designed to remove minerals like calcium and magnesium from your home’s supply, leaving behind softer, better-tasting water that is also easier on appliances and fixtures. But before you invest in a system, it’s important to understand how they work and decide if it’s right for you.

In this blog post, we’ll explore the benefits of installing a new water softener system as well as some of the drawbacks so that you can make an informed decision about whether or not it’s worth investing in one for your home.

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What is a Water Softener and How Does it Work?

So, what exactly is a water softening system? A water softener works by passing your home’s hard water through an ion exchange resin bead. These beads contain positively charged sodium ions that attract the negatively charged mineral ions like calcium and magnesium in the hard water, causing them to stick to the beads rather than pass through with the flow of water. After these minerals are removed from the supply, softer, cleaner tasting, and healthier drinking water results.

Hard Water Detection

If you’re experiencing issues with your water supply, hard water could be the culprit. Hard water, which is water that contains high levels of dissolved minerals, can cause problems for your plumbing and appliances, as well as create noticeable changes in the way your water looks and feels. Luckily, hard water detection is relatively straightforward, and there are many methods you can use to identify and combat this issue in your home. By understanding the signs of hard water, you can take steps to protect your property and enjoy cleaner, clearer water for years to come.

Signs of hard water can include soap not lathering well, white spots on dishes and glassware, and a buildup of scale on faucets and showerheads. In addition, hard water may leave clothes feeling stiff and looking dull, and can even shorten the lifespan of appliances such as water heaters and dishwashers. While hard water isn’t necessarily harmful to your health, it can be a frustrating and costly issue to deal with. If you suspect that you have hard water, it’s important to have your water tested and consider investing in a water softening system to help mitigate these issues.

Top Benefits of Water Softening

Water softeners and conditioners can provide several benefits, including but not limited to:

Longer appliance and plumbing fixture lifespans thanks to less wear and tear on metal parts caused by mineral buildup.

Softened skin due to reduced soap scum build-up.

Better tasting food prepared with softer water.

Improved hygiene due to fewer bacteria present in the water.

A reduction in energy costs because it takes less soap or detergent to get the same cleaning job done.

Drawbacks of Water Softener Replacement

However, installing a new water softening system can also come with some drawbacks. The cost of buying and installing a system can be quite expensive, as can ongoing maintenance costs such as salt replacements. In addition, softened water contains higher levels of sodium which may not be ideal for those on sodium-restricted diets. Finally, there is also the environmental impact to consider – since softened water eventually ends up in waterways, too much sodium could have an adverse effect on aquatic life.

Conclusion

Ultimately, deciding whether or not to install a new water softening system will depend on your needs and budget. If you feel that you would benefit from softer water, then a new system may be well worth the investment. However, if cost is an issue or if you already have an adequate supply of soft water, then it may not be necessary to install one. In any case, understanding how these systems work and the potential benefits and drawbacks can help you make an informed decision about whether a water softening system is right for your home.

Are you ready to protect your home or business against the damages of hard water? Contact Weilhammer Plumbing Company at 317-784-1870 for trusted water softener sales, service, and installation in Indianapolis, Indiana. We serve residential and commercial clients.

8 Benefits of Water Softening for Homeowners

Posted on April 18, 2023 by weilhammerplumbing

Do you have hard water in your home? Are you tired of dealing with the problems it can cause, such as dry skin and hair, soap scum buildup on fixtures, and spots on dishes after they’ve been washed? If so, a water softener could be the answer. Water softeners are designed to reduce or eliminate the effects of hard water by removing minerals like calcium and magnesium that make it “hard.”

Continue below to learn 8 benefits of installing a water softening system in your home.

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8 Reasons Why You Want Softened Water

1. Softer Skin and Hair – Hard water can strip skin and hair of its natural oils, making them dry and brittle. Softening your water will help keep your skin and hair hydrated, reducing the need for expensive moisturizers.

2. Reduced Soap Scum – Mineral deposits from hard water can leave a soapy film on everything from shower tiles to dishes after washing. Installing a softener prevents those minerals from being passed along in the water supply, helping you keep your home cleaner with less effort.

3. Longer-Lasting Appliances – The build-up of hard minerals in appliances like dishwashers and washing machines can reduce their lifespan significantly over time. A softener will help extend the life of your appliances by preventing mineral deposits.

4. Lower Water Heating Costs – Hard water can reduce the efficiency of your water heater, meaning you’ll be paying more to use it. Softened water requires less energy to heat, so you’ll save money on your monthly bills.

5. Cleaner Laundry – If you’ve ever noticed discoloration or residue on clothing after washing in hard water, a softener is the answer! Softening the water helps remove those minerals which can cause laundry to look dingy and dull over time.

6. Better Tasting Drinking Water – Minerals dissolved in hard water can have an off-putting taste and smell. A water softener can help make drinking water more pleasant by removing those elements, so you and your family can enjoy clean, fresh-tasting water straight from the tap.

7. Cleaner Bathing Water – Hard water leaves a scaly residue on bathtubs that’s difficult to remove without harsh chemicals. Softening the water will reduce scaling in bathrooms and help keep them looking cleaner longer.

8. Money Savings – Installing a water softener may seem like an expensive investment initially, but it can actually save you money over time with reduced soap costs, fewer appliance repairs or replacements, and lower energy bills for heating hot water.

If you have hard water in your home and are looking for a way to reduce its effects, installing a water softener can provide many benefits. It may take some time to recoup the cost of the softener, but in the long run you’ll be glad you made the investment!

Average Cost of Water Softening

As homeowners, we’re focused on providing our families with healthy, clean water. But hard water can easily impede those efforts, leading to mineral buildup in pipes and a less-than-ideal taste. While water softening is a common solution that can help ward off those issues, many people are left wondering about its average cost.

Depending on your home’s particular needs, the cost of a water softener can vary greatly. Some factors that can affect pricing include the size and type of softener, any additional installation costs, and ongoing maintenance expenses. However, the good news is that in recent years, prices for such systems have generally become more affordable, making it easier for more homeowners to take control of their water’s quality.

If you have any questions about water softening and hard water removal, don’t hesitate any longer! Contact Weilhammer Plumbing Company at 317-784-1870 for water softener sales, service, and installation in Indianapolis, Indiana. At our plumbing company, we serve both residential and commercial clients with top-notch service.

The Ultimate Guide to Water Softener Replacement

Posted on February 14, 2023 by weilhammerplumbing

Are you looking for a reliable guide to water softener replacement? If so, then you have come to the right place. In this article, we will provide an in-depth look into replacing a water softener and what it entails. We will cover everything from how to select the right size of water softener unit, how much it costs, and what type of service is needed.

By the end of this blog, you’ll be well-equipped with all the knowledge and resources necessary for replacing your current water softener system. Let’s get started!

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Signs You Need a New Water Softener

Water softeners provide an important role in making water with high mineral content safe for use and preventing unpleasant water issues. If you’re noticing water spots on dishes, dry itchy skin, and a water scale buildup around plumbing fixtures in your home, it might be time to think about water softener replacement. Water softener problems, like long regeneration times, high water bills, or funny tasting water, are additional signs that suggest you need to replace your water softener.

While some homeowners can troubleshoot or clean these systems themselves, most find it easier and more efficient to bring in a professional water softening company with the experience and know-how to get the job done right. They can provide inspections, repairs, parts replacements, full unit installation, and even water softeners for sale. So, is it time to replace your water softener?

Key Factors to Consider Before You Replace a Water Softener:

Water Softener Size

When it comes to replacing a water softener, there are several things you should consider. First and foremost, you need to select the right size of water softener unit that meets your specific needs. Different sizes of water softeners will typically offer varying levels of capacity and features. Generally speaking, the larger the unit is, the more expensive it will be. You’ll also want to ensure that the unit you buy is compatible with your existing plumbing and water supply.

Water Softener Prices

Once you’ve decided on the size and type of water softener replacement system, you’ll need to consider the cost. Depending on the brand, model, and features of the water softener unit, prices can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand. In addition, you may also need to factor in additional costs for installation, maintenance, and other services.

Water Softener Installation

In order to ensure that your water softener replacement is done properly and safely, it’s important to hire a professional water softening service in Indianapolis. Licensed water softener technicians will not only be able to assess the condition of your current system, but they will also be able to troubleshoot any issues and replace the unit if necessary. Before hiring a water softener company, make sure to ask for proof of insurance and any other certifications.

We hope this guide has been helpful in providing you with all the information needed when it comes to replacing a water softener. With this knowledge in hand, you can now confidently shop for the right water softener replacement system that meets all of your needs and budget. Contact Weilhammer Plumbing Company at 317-784-1870 for water softener sales, service, and installation in Indianapolis, Indiana. We serve residential and commercial customers, and service all make and model saltfree water softeners.

9 Simple Strategies for Reducing the Impact of Hard Water on Appliances

Posted on December 27, 2022 by weilhammerplumbing

Have you ever wondered why hard water can cause so many issues with your appliances? From dishwashers to washing machines, hard water can wreak havoc on the inner workings of these expensive items. Fortunately, there are several strategies available for reducing the impact of hard water on your home appliances.

In this blog post, we will discuss nine simple strategies for softening hard water and protecting your appliances from its damaging effects. We’ll discuss topics such as installing a water softener, using detergents designed specifically for hard-water areas, and more. By following some or all of these tips, you should be able to reduce the amount of damage that hard water causes in your home!

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Avoid Appliance Inefficiency With These 9 Hard Water Removal Tips

1. Install a water softener: One of the best and most effective ways to reduce hard water damage on your appliances is to install a water softener system in your home. Water softeners work by removing the minerals that cause hard water from the supply, leaving you with clean, soft water for all of your needs. If you live in an area where hard water is a problem, installing a water softener can be one of the best investments you make for your home and appliances.

2. Use detergents designed specifically for hard-water areas: There are several brands of detergent on the market that are specially formulated to work with hard water. These detergents contain special ingredients that help to reduce hard water’s damaging effects on your appliances.

3. Check the appliance’s water softening setting: Many appliances now come with built-in settings for hard water; if you have hard water, make sure to check the relevant settings in order to get the best performance out of your appliance.

4. Use a filter: If hard water is an issue in your area, you may want to consider using a filter on the incoming water supply. A good filter will help remove sediment, minerals and other contaminants that can damage appliances and reduce their effectiveness over time.

5. Clean regularly: Regularly cleaning your appliances can help reduce hard water damage and keep your appliances running smoothly. Use a soft cloth or brush to gently remove any buildup of hard water deposits from the surfaces of your appliance.

6. Check for leaks: Make sure to regularly check for leaks in any faucets, hoses or other plumbing fixtures connected to your home’s water supply. Leaks can often be hard to spot, so if you think you might have a hidden leak it’s worth calling a professional Indianapolis plumber to investigate.

7. Flush the system: If hard water is an issue in your area, it may be worthwhile flushing out the plumbing system every few months or so. This process helps to remove hard water deposits that can block the flow of water and damage your appliances.

8. Use a descaling product: If hard water is leaving visible signs of its presence on your appliances, there are special descaling products available that you can use to restore them to their former glory.

9. Regularly check your water softener: Finally, if you have a water softener installed in your home, make sure to regularly check it for signs of wear or damage. A malfunctioning water softener won’t be able to perform its job properly, leaving hard water deposits to build up and damage your appliances.

Remove Hard Water in Indianapolis Today

By taking these simple steps and following these nine strategies for reducing hard water’s impact on your home appliances, you can keep them running smoothly and efficiently. Remember that hard water is a common problem in many areas, and it can be hard to completely eliminate, but with the right precautions and maintenance, you should be able to reduce its negative effects on your appliances significantly.

If you’re dealing with any hard water problems, don’t despair. There are solutions available to help you keep your water clean and safe. Contact Weilhammer Plumbing Company at 317-784-1870 for trusted water softener sales, service, and installation in Indianapolis, Indiana. We serve residential and commercial clients.

The Highest Rated Residential Water Softeners of 2022

Posted on November 7, 2022 by weilhammerplumbing

It’s that time of year again! We’re rounding up the highest rated water softeners on the market for 2022. If you’re in the market for a new water softener, this is the blog post for you. We’ll be covering the top 5 highest rated water softeners, based on a variety of factors including performance, price, and features.

So, without further ado, let’s get started!

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Top 5 Home Water Softeners With the Highest Ratings

#5 – GE Hybrid Water Softener

Number 5 on our list is the GE Hybrid Water Softener. This water softener is one of the more affordable options on the market, and it boasts some impressive features. The GE Hybrid uses a two-tank system to provide softened water while using less salt and water than traditional water softeners. It also has a built-in filtration system to remove impurities from your water.

#4 – Aquios Full House Water Softener and Filtration System

Number 4 on our list is the Aquios Full House Water Softener and Filtration System. This unit is designed for larger homes with 3-4 bathrooms. The Aquios system uses a 4-stage filtration process to remove impurities from your water. It also includes a water softener to remove hard minerals from your water.

#3 – Fleck 5600 SXT Water Softener

Number 3 on our list is the Fleck 5600 SXT Water Softener. This unit is one of the more popular water softeners on the market, and for good reason. The Fleck 5600 SXT is a high-performance water softener that is designed for use in homes with 3-4 bathrooms. It includes a digital control panel for easy operation, and it can soften water for up to 80 people.

#2 – Aquatrol Reverse Osmosis Water Softener and Filtration System

Number 2 on our list is the Aquatrol Reverse Osmosis Water Softener and Filtration System. This unit is designed for larger homes with 4-5 bathrooms. The Aquatrol system uses a 5-stage filtration process to remove impurities from your water. It also includes a water softener to remove hard minerals from your water.

#1 – Rainsoft Ultrefiner II Water Softener and Filtration System

Number 1 on our list is the Rainsoft Ultrefiner II Water Softener and Filtration System. This unit is designed for larger homes with 5-6 bathrooms. The Rainsoft Ultrefiner II uses a 6-stage filtration process to remove impurities from your water. It also includes a water softener to remove hard minerals from your water.

So, there you have it, the top 5 highest rated water softeners on the market for 2022. We hope this list has helped you narrow down your choices and find the perfect water softener for your home. Contact Weilhammer Plumbing Company at 317-784-1870 for water softener sales, service, and installation in Indianapolis, Indiana. We serve residential and commercial clients.

How to Improve the Quality of Well Water

Posted on November 1, 2022 by weilhammerplumbing

While many people take for granted the water that comes out of their taps, those with private wells know that there’s a lot of work that goes into keeping that water clean and safe. Continue below to learn some best practices for treating and preventing common well water problems.

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Well Water is Hard Water

Hard water is one of the most common problems faced by well owners. Hard water is water that contains high levels of minerals, like calcium and magnesium. These minerals can build up in your pipes and appliances, causing damage and reducing their lifespan. They can also make it difficult to get your clothes clean when doing laundry.

If you have hard water, you’ll need to install a water softener. A water softener works by exchanging the minerals in your water for sodium ions. This process doesn’t remove the minerals from your water, but it does make them much less corrosive.

Well Water Problems and Solutions

Another common well water problem is iron bacteria. Iron bacteria are harmless bacteria that feed on iron and other minerals in your water. They can cause staining on your fixtures and clothing, and they can also clog your pipes. If you have iron bacteria in your water, you’ll need to disinfect your well and install an iron filter. Disinfecting your well will kill the bacteria, and the iron filter will remove any minerals from your water that the bacteria can feed on.

Finally, another common well water problem is high levels of nitrates. Nitrates are pollutants that can come from agricultural runoff, sewage, and industrial waste. They can be dangerous to your health, especially if you’re pregnant or have a young child. If you have high levels of nitrates in your water, you’ll need to have your well tested and treated by a professional. Treatment typically involves adding chemicals to your water that bind with the nitrates and remove them.

Best Practices for Well Water Maintenance

If you’re one of the millions of Americans who get their water from a well, you know that it’s important to keep an eye on the quality of your water. Here are some tips on how to improve the quality of your well water:

1. Test your water regularly. You should test your well water at least once a year for bacteria and nitrates. You may also want to have your water tested for other contaminants, depending on what’s in your area.

2. Keep your well maintained. Make sure that your well is properly sealed and that the area around it is free of debris and vegetation. Regularly check the condition of your well pump and have it serviced if necessary.

3. Use a water filter. A water filter can help to remove contaminants from your water. There are many different types of filters available, so be sure to choose one that’s right for your needs.

4. Drink and cook with distilled or boiled water. If you’re concerned about the quality of your well water, you can boil it or distill it yourself. This will kill any bacteria or other contaminants that may be present.

5. Use a water softener. If your well water is hard, a water softener can help to improve its quality. Water softeners work by removing minerals from the water, which can make it taste better and be easier on your plumbing.

By following these tips, you can help to improve the quality of your well water and make sure that you and your family are getting the safe, clean water that you need.

If you’re dealing with any of these common well water problems, don’t despair. There are solutions available to help you keep your water clean and safe. Contact Weilhammer Plumbing Company at 317-784-1870 for trusted water softener sales, service, and installation in Indianapolis, Indiana. We serve residential and commercial clients.

Your Home Needs a Water Softener If It Shows These Signs

Posted on August 23, 2022 by weilhammerplumbing

There are many adjectives you want to be able to use to describe your home’s water, like wet, clear, fresh, odorless, and tasteless. Likewise, there are several more that you don’t want to use to describe the water in your home, like smelly, cloudy, discolored, or unpalatable. So, how do you describe your water? If your water description is on the negative side, you may have a hard water problem. The best way to solve a hard water problem is by installing a quality water softening system.

Not sure if you are ready for a water softener? Continue reading to learn some common signs that indicate your home is in need of a water softener.

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Signs of Hard Water in the Home

Although there are several signs, large and small, that indicate your home is experiencing a higher level of water hardness. However, by examining these four top signs of hard water in the home, you can quickly determine if water hardness is indeed a problem in your house.

Sink and Tub Stains

Take a look at your bathroom sinks, shower, and tub basin. Do you see rust-like staining on the porcelain or around the drainage hardware? If so, this is likely due to hard water. You see, hard, water is hard because it contains hard mineral ions and dissolved metals. When these come into contact with your porcelain bathroom fixtures, it will begin to permeate and corrode from within, causing the telltale staining you see.

Scale Buildup

Perhaps the most blatant sign that your home is experiencing. Water hardness is limes buildup. Take a look at your shower fixtures, your faucets, plumbing hardware, and similar fixtures. Do you see a white, flaky, crusty material, forming around them? This is known as scale, and it is a mixture of hard mineral ions that precipitate out of hot water and stick to whatever surface they come into contact with. Although you can treat scale as it comes, it will never fully go away unless you first fix the hard water problem.

Increased Utility Bills

Do you keep track of your water and energy bills each month? If you’ve noticed that they’ve increased, even though you’ve not done anything differently, do not chalk it up to inflation or the current economic condition. It might be caused by scale buildup inside your water heater tank and similar plumbing appliances, like the washing machine and dishwasher.

Scale buildup inside of your plumbing pipes and appliances causes your system to work harder just to perform the same job that they have always performed. As a result, your appliances use more energy, which cost you more money. Scale buildup inside of the water heater tank can also cause you to wait longer for your shower or bathtub to heat up. This increases your energy bill and your water bill.

Dingy and Faded Clothing

Have you been scratching your head while switching detergents and fabric softeners over and over again, but still your laundry feels dry and looks faded? Your problem could be hard water. You know that scale that we’ve been talking about? Well, it can also affect the quality of your clothing in any other upholsterer items you wash in your washing machine. It can also affect washing machine performance, namely by not properly rinsing out the detergents and fabric softeners from your laundered items. If your clothes feel sticky or greasy, it could be due to this.

Are you ready to learn why a water softener is the best choice for your home or office? Contact Weilhammer Plumbing Company at 317-784-1870 for water softener sales, service, and installation in Indianapolis, Indiana. We serve residential and commercial clients.

Top 3 Ways to Soften Hard Water

Posted on July 12, 2022 by weilhammerplumbing

Soft water is free of hard mineral ions and dissolved solids, like calcium, magnesium, and iron. When your water contains traces of these constituents, you can safely assume it is hard. Fortunately, hard water can be treated a number of ways. In some cases, you may need to apply more than one strategy to adequately soften your water.

Continue reading to learn the top three most effective ways to soften hard water, plus how to get started with a personalized soft water plan at home!

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Water Softening 101

What is hard water? Hard water is water that has permeated the ground layer by layer, collecting the minerals and dissolved solids contained in the soil, clay, sand, and aggregate along the way. Once the water reaches the underground water table, where we source our municipal tap water from, it has a high level of hardness.

What’s the problem with hard water? A lot. For starters, limescale. When heat is introduced to hard water, it causes the calcium and magnesium deposits to release from the water and stick to pipes and other areas of contact, like faucets, drains, shower heads, water bowls, tea kettles, plumbing pipes, water heaters, boilers, water lines, and more. These residual deposits accumulate to form what is known as limescale, which can appear in a range of colors, from white and light blue to yellow, green, or even pink hues.

Not only does limescale poorly conduct heat, but it also obstructs the flow of water through pipes and other underground systems. In fact, this is a common reason for having poor or lowered water pressure. Scale damages plumbing and plumbed appliances, which ultimately costs homeowners’ money.

What are the signs of hard water? Don’t fall victim to premature appliance replacements or costly plumbing repair bills. Get rid of a hard water problem at first sight. Common signs of hard water, aside from limescale formation and low water pressure, include spotty dishes or dishes that don’t seem to get cleaned, as well as poor quality laundry, like faded, stiff, or musty/sour-smelling clothes. Poor soap lather, itchy irritated skin, and dingy hair are more signs of hard water.

How to Eliminate Hard Water

What can you do to get rid of hard water? There are many options, but the top three most effective water softening methods, which can be used in congruence, include water softeners, whole house water filters, and reverse osmosis.

Water Softeners

Water softeners are the top-recommended, most effective tool for eliminating and abating hard water. In regions with naturally softer water (not Indiana by the way; we have the hardest water in the country!), a home might only need a quality water softener. In areas with harder water, like the Hoosier state, a home would benefit from installing a water softener and then combining it with another effective soft water strategy.

Whole House Water Filters

Whole house water filtration is an excellent way to soften water even further. It is especially useful for making tap water taste and perform better. If your drinking water tastes better, you can stop wasting money on bottled and canned versions! Plus, your coffee, tea, soup, lemonade, and other water-based pleasures will taste even more delicious. Not only will whole house water filters and cutting-edge iron removal systems eliminate heavy metals and contaminants in your drinking water, but they may also come with anti-bacterial filter options for treating E. coli, coliform, chemicals, dissolved solids, and more.

Reverse Osmosis System

Reverse osmosis is a convenient and affordable water filtration technology that utilizes water pressure and semi-permeable membranes to remove unwanted contaminants and heavy metals from tap water. Reverse osmosis (RO) systems are designed to eliminate things like sodium, potassium, nitrates, and other dissolved solids. With a simple touch of a button, anyone in your home can instantly have purified drinking water right from the tap!

Are you ready to implement an effective and budget-friendly hard water removal plan for your home or office? Contact Weilhammer Plumbing Company at 317-784-1870 for professional water softener sales, installation, service, and repair in Indianapolis, Indiana. We serve residential and commercial customers, and service all make and model water softeners, including saltfree water softeners.