A water softener is a good investment for your home if you experience any of the common problems associated with hard water. Limescale buildup and spotty glasses are visible signs you probably have hard water and could benefit from a water softening system.
What Are the Benefits of a Water Softener?
Hard water contains high levels of dissolved minerals, primarily calcium and magnesium, which can lead to a variety of issues throughout your home. A water softener can put an end to those pesky hard water problems and prove to be a good investment. Here’s why:
- Prevents Scale Buildup: Hard water minerals can form scale deposits inside your pipes, water heater, dishwasher, washing machine, and faucets. This buildup reduces the efficiency of these appliances, leading to higher energy bills and potentially shortening their lifespan. Soft water eliminates this issue.
- Reduces Soap Scum and Film: In hard water, soap doesn’t lather well and reacts with the minerals to form a sticky scum on surfaces like shower doors, bathtubs, sinks, and dishes. Soft water allows soap to lather properly and rinse away cleanly, leaving surfaces sparkling.
- Cleaner and Softer Laundry: Hard water can make clothes feel stiff, look dull, and wear out faster. It also hinders the effectiveness of laundry detergents. Soft water helps clothes become cleaner, brighter, and softer, and reduces the amount of detergent needed.
- Healthier Skin and Hair: Hard water can dry out your skin and hair, leading to irritation, itchiness, and a dull appearance. Soap scum left on the skin can also clog pores. Soft water helps your skin retain its natural moisture and leaves hair feeling softer and more manageable.
- Spotless Dishes and Glassware: Hard water leaves unsightly spots and streaks on dishes and glassware after washing. Soft water ensures they come out sparkling and clear.
- Saves Money: By improving the efficiency of water-using appliances, reducing the need for excessive soap and cleaning products, and potentially extending the life of your plumbing and appliances, a water softener can save you money in the long run.
- Better Tasting Water: In some cases, hard water can have a metallic or otherwise unpleasant taste. A water softener can improve the taste and odor of your water.
Signs You Might Have Hard Water
- Limescale buildup on faucets and showerheads
- Soap scum on shower walls, bathtubs, and sinks
- Spotty dishes and glassware
- Stiff and dull laundry
- Dry and itchy skin or scalp
- Difficulty getting soap to lather
- Reduced water pressure due to mineral buildup in pipes
- Reddish-brown stains on plumbing fixtures (due to iron in the water)
Water Softener Installation by Herbein Plumbing
In Berks County, Pennsylvania, the water is generally considered hard although the degree of hardness can vary depending on the source. If you are experiencing any of the issues listed above, call Herbein Plumbing to discuss installing a water softening system in your home.
We provide service, maintenance, and installation of water conditioning systems, including ultraviolet water conditioning systems and reverse osmosis systems. Not only will you enjoy better drinking water and softer skin, your pipes and fixtures will thank you. A water softener is a worthwhile investment to protect your home and improve your quality of life.
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