So we know that we have hard water. The question, then, is what it actually means to have hard water. What is hard water? How does it compare to “soft water?” Is one better or worse for you and your family?

Our technicians see these questions all the time, and we’re here to help shed some light on the situation. Let’s break down hard water, step by step.

What is Hard Water?

Hard water is “hard” because it contains more minerals than “soft” water; specifically, hard water contains higher amounts of calcium and magnesium, due to increased exposure to rocks and soil. The USGS identifies water as “hard” when its calcium carbonate count is greater than 121 milligrams per liter. In Red Oak, calcium levels generally fall between 121 and 180 mg/L.

What Are the Differences Between Hard and Soft Water?

So now we know that the difference between hard and soft water comes down to mineral levels, with hard water containing higher amounts of calcium or magnesium, compared with soft water’s lack of extra elements.

What’s really interesting is what a difference these mineral levels make. On a day to day basis, hard water and soft water function very, very differently, in ways both large and small. For instance, hard water interacts with soaps or detergents, meaning that it does not interact with soils, stains, and dirt as well as soft water. This makes bathing and cleaning more difficult with hard water. At the same time, hard water is more likely than soft to cause scaling, clogging, and film buildup in showers, pipes, and appliances.

Hard water is also less energy efficient than soft water: Not only are you able to use less soft water for cleaning and showering, but hard water can be “grainy,” which causes hot water heaters and other appliances to operate less efficiently.

Is It Better to Have Hard or Soft Water?

In general, it would be preferable to have soft water to hard; it’s better for cleaning and showering and less likely to clog pipes and reduce your system’s efficiency. Hard water certainly isn’t dangerous or unusable; it’s simply a little less convenient.

Unfortunately, because of Red Oak’s location, hard water is a fact of life. If you want the alternative, you’ll need to be proactive and take steps to soften the water in your home.

How Do I Get Soft Water?

The Red Oak Tribune has a few helpful ideas for getting softer water here in the city:

"There are several ways the hardness of water can be reduced, including distillation, reverse osmosis or the addition of a chemical softener, which is most common. Conventional water-softening appliances depend on an ion-exchange resin in which hardness ions are exchanged for sodium ions. Look for a water softener that's certified to national standards such as NSF/ANSI 44.”

Before installing a water softening unit or purchasing any chemicals, be sure to consult with a licensed plumber!

Here at Combat Plumbing, our team knows all of the ins and outs of water in Red Oak; we’d be happy to help you plan out the strategy that works best for your pipes, your appliances, and the health of you and your family. Drop us a line today to get the conversation started!