If you have mineral-rich water, you’ll likely notice visible issues around the house, such as stains in your shower or toilet and soap scum on glass doors, bathtubs, and sinks. However, internal plumbing issues are harder to spot. This type of water not only makes cleaning more difficult but also impacts appliances and pipes.
What is Mineral-Rich Water?
Southern Ontario has some of the highest mineral levels in Canada. Calcium and magnesium are particularly abundant, but these minerals can be easily removed.
How to Identify the Issue
Some telltale signs of hard water include:
- Dry skin and hair or an itchy scalp
- Excessive soap use
- Mineral deposits around taps, shower heads, and appliances
- Stiff and scratchy laundry due to poor soap lathering
How Does it Affect Appliances and Plumbing?
- Buildup in Pipes: Mineral deposits gradually accumulate, causing clogs in plumbing systems like drains, faucets, and hoses.
- Low Flow: Mineral buildup restricts flow through pipes. If you notice low pressure while showering or in appliances like your coffee maker, this may be the cause.
- Poor Performance: Washing machines, dishwashers, and heaters run less efficiently, increasing energy bills over time.
- Corrosion: Minerals like calcium and magnesium can lead to pipe corrosion, resulting in leaks and water damage.
Solutions
- Water Softeners: This effective solution removes the minerals that cause these issues. You’ll need to maintain salt levels, but it offers a convenient way to protect your home’s plumbing and appliances. Watermaker offers several softener systems to match different needs.
- Reverse Osmosis: This system forces liquid through a membrane, filtering out unwanted minerals and impurities like chlorine, improving the quality of your drinking supply.
- Whole-Home Systems: For ultimate convenience, Wi-Fi-enabled systems allow you to monitor and control water treatment, alerting you to maintenance needs, leaks, or unusual usage, which can save you money in the long run.
Have Hard Water? Watermaker Can Help!
While these mineral-related issues are common, they are easy to address. Watermaker is here to help ensure that you have the best water possible for your home or business.
Have questions? Visit our offices in Orangeville or Fergus with a sample, or learn more at our website. Reach out and we’ll help you find the right solution. Better Water, Better Life.
