Water hardness is determined by a concentration of minerals, such as calcium and magnesium. We receive a lot of questions about hard water. For example:
- Can hard water cause pimples?
- Can it dry out my skin and scalp?
- Is the water hardness in San Antonio the reason my dishes are so spotty?
Hard water can do all these things, and more. It can lead to scaling inside pipes, which contributes to bacteria growth and can damage plumbing fixtures. Eventually, mineral scaling can stiffen and fade clothing as well as clog up your pipes. If you’re worried about this or hard water causing acne, have signs of hard water on hair (orange, rusty tints on light-colored hair), and other problems, here are steps to fix your San Antonio hard water problem:
How to Fix Hard Water DIY
Boil Water Before Use
Boiling is effective for temporary hard water. It contains calcium bicarbonate, which precipitates out of the water, reducing the calcium content and softening the water. However, boiling water with dissolved calcium sulfate (permanent hardness) will not achieve the same results.
Do Laundry with Washing Soda
Hard water can do a number on your laundry, but adding washing soda can help. It has sodium carbonate that works on temporary and permanent hard water, removing the dissolved calcium and magnesium. Soap is more effective when used with soft water, so you can get cleaner clothes.
How to Fix Hard Water Effects on Plumbing
If you have hard water, there can be many inconveniences, including soap scum. Unless you get rid of a hard water problem, it will continue to build up on sinks, drains, shower doors, tiles, and fixtures. Positively charged calcium atoms form the soap scum by preventing soap molecules from dissolving, so they continue to attach and accumulate. There are cleaning formulas that target the calcium atoms, making it easier to wipe away the film.
Distilled white vinegar is an acidic substance that helps neutralize calcium, which is alkaline. But softening any water you drink or use requires dumping a lot of vinegar into it. This might work for hand washing clothes, soaking fixtures, or spraying surfaces and appliances, but not treating drinking water.
But there’s a more effective solution if you want to know how to fix hard water for good. Install a water softener. There are several types on the market, so you may want to consider:
1. Magnetic Water Conditioner
If your hard water problem isn’t that bad, a magnetic system softens water somewhat. A magnetic field alters impurities and how they react, as mineral ions are forced to separate rather than stick together. The minerals remain in the water and drain away with it.
2. Faucet Water Softener
Simple and convenient, this type can install easily on the faucet or under the sink. Your choices include sodium or potassium chloride water softeners that use ion exchange. Ions are swapped with chloride ions in the unit, and hard water minerals are captured and stored in a compartment. Salt-free water softeners instead break down mineral ions into tiny crystals; these then become suspended in the water but can’t attach to anything.
3. Whole House Water Softening System
Elmer’s Home Services Can Fix Your Hard Water Problem
Water hardness in San Antonio is more extreme than in most of the United States. Fortunately, we know how to fix hard water for good. If you have signs of hard water in your home, our licensed technicians can help select a water softener that will provide a long-lasting resolution. Contact us today to learn more or schedule a visit.