Hard water is water that contains high levels of dissolved minerals, particularly calcium and magnesium. These minerals are picked up as water flows through soil and rock, and can also be added to water by human activities such as mining and agriculture.
Hard water can have several negative effects. It can cause scaling, which is the buildup of mineral deposits in pipes, appliances, and fixtures. This can lead to reduced water flow, clogs, and decreased efficiency in appliances like water heaters and dishwashers. Hard water can also make it more difficult to lather soap, leaving a soapy film on skin and clothes.
To soften hard water, it can be treated with a water softener. Water softeners remove the minerals that cause hardness and replace them with sodium ions, which do not have the same negative effects. Other methods for treating hard water include reverse osmosis, ion exchange, and distillation. Fitt Hydro-Systems offers water solutions countrywide.
There are several ways to treat hard water, including:
- Water Softeners: Water softeners are the most common way to treat hard water. They work by using ion exchange to remove the calcium and magnesium ions that cause hardness, and replace them with sodium or potassium ions. Water softeners are available in different sizes to fit the needs of different households.
- Reverse Osmosis: Reverse osmosis is a water treatment process that can also remove hardness from water. It works by pushing water through a semi-permeable membrane that filters out impurities, including minerals. Reverse osmosis systems are typically installed under the sink and can produce clean, soft water on demand.
- Distillation: Distillation is another water treatment process that can remove hardness. It involves boiling water and collecting the steam, which is then condensed back into water. Since the minerals are left behind during the boiling process, the resulting water is soft.
- Chelation: Chelation is a process where a chelating agent is added to the water to bind with the minerals that cause hardness. This process can be used for small-scale applications, such as in a dishwasher or washing machine.
It’s important to note that while these methods can effectively remove hardness from water, they may also remove beneficial minerals. It’s important to ensure that you’re still getting enough essential minerals in your diet, particularly if you’re relying on treated water for cooking and drinking.
