When talking about water, we always encounter the terms “hard” or “soft” water. These terms refer to the chemical compounds dissolved in the water that make them either hard or soft.
You must be able to differentiate between the two, and know which one you need to use in different water applications.
Hard Water – contains a substantial amount of minerals, mostly calcium and magnesium.
Soft Water – Clean rainwater is initially soft and turns into hard water as it comes into contact with other elements in the atmosphere, the ground and our waterways, and picks up minerals like calcium and magnesium.
There are many differences between soft and hard water; check out their advantages and disadvantages below:
ADVANTAGES of Each Type
Hard Water – Hard water has an enhanced amount of minerals like calcium and magnesium which is good for our health; it is preferred for consumption.
Soft Water
• Lathers up quickly and saves on soap
• Washing off soap is easier and saves on water
• Retains moisture in the skin and keeps it smooth
• Diminishes skin diseases
• Clothes last longer after many washing because soft water does not contain minerals
• Washing crockery and utensils is easier with soft water, plus its original color is retained
• Appliances do not work harder so less energy is used and the energy bill is lower
• Appliances do not work harder so the appliances last longer
• Does not leave mineral deposits on the pipes causing damage in the long run
DISADVANTAGES of Overly Hard or Soft Water
Hard Water
• Hard to work up a lather because of its mineral contents
• Leaves behind soap curd on the skin, causing skin dryness
• Leaves behind minerals on the skin, causing skin problems
• Hard to rid of dirt in clothes, dirt accumulates in every wash
• Leaves hair rough, sticky, unmanageable and dull after shampooing
• After frequent wash, hair gets a reddish tinge caused by minerals
• Damages pipes by coating the inner walls, choking the pipe and corroding the metal
Soft Water
Soft water does not have the important mineral content and is not ideal for drinking especially for those with heart problems or who need a low sodium diet.
WHICH IS BEST TO USE IN THE HOUSE?
Experts say that hard water is far superior to soft water in terms of consumption. Since hard water contains vital minerals, it is the choice drinking water, not only because of its health benefits but also its better flavor.
However, soft water is also very important in our daily lives, in accomplishing our daily chores; it’s also a must in our household.
For this reason, experts recommend the installation of a water softener with a bypass system to solve this water “problem.” A water softener can treat hard water to make it soft. The addition of the bypass system will allow the right kind of water to flow into the right faucets. Example, soft water should flow in the bathroom, the washing machine, the dishwasher, etc., and the hard water should flow in the kitchen for cooking and drinking purposes.
What a great idea to harness all the benefits of the soft and hard water through the use of a water softener! Before you decide to buy a water softener, do a comparative research first and call the professionals to have this very helpful system in your homes!
Knowing about the water in your Oklahoma City home is important. Call Hull Plumbing at (405) 246-9763 to learn more about treatment options!
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