Understanding Soft Water and Hard Water

Introduction

A good number of the individuals will confirm to you that water is water. Nonetheless, water falls into two categories: soft and hard. The difference between soft and hard water emerges when sorting out the mineral content of the water and not how it feels to your skin.

Hard water

Hard water is fetched from ground water. Ground water is basically rain water that seeped into the ground and according to geologists, reaches an aquifer, whereby it becomes part of a water source in a spring or a well.

The water picks up minerals such as sulfur, magnesium, lime and calcium as it seeps into the ground. A concentration of one grain of minerals per gallon of water qualifies the water as hard.

Soft water

On the other hand, soft water contains a lesser concentration of minerals compared to hard water. Water with less than one gram of minerals per gallon of water can be said to be soft water. Collected rain water, for example, is said to be soft since the interaction between water, and the minerals is minimal.

It can also be collected in water basins such as lakes, rivers before seeping into the ground. Moreover, scientists discovered water softeners that contain sodium ions, which can be used to remove the calcium and magnesium from the hard water making it soft.

Features of hard water

Both hard water and soft water contain their pros and cons. Hard water has a few disadvantages where it leaves scales or rather deposits that corrode pipes if not eradicated over time. Moreover, the deposits prevent water heaters and boilers from working efficiently.

Hard water also leaves deposits and films around bathroom sinks and toilets which if not regularly cleaned out eventually clog drainage interfering with household tasks. This may be the reason why your appliances only serve for a short time before reducing conductivity and proper workability. The plumber will have to visit your home to unclog or change pipes in your home given the damage caused by hard water.

Features of Soft Water

Soft water is mineral-free or less concentrated with minerals. It does not leave scales and, therefore, increases the durability of pipes. In addition, it helps dish washers and washing machines to work more effectively for longer periods and with less detergent. That way you cut costs on machinery repairs. The sinks, bathtubs, and toilets retain great conditions with soft water.

Knowing about the water in your Easton home is important. Call AmeriServe  at (610) 258-2591 to learn more about treatment options!