What’s hard water and does it matter?
As a new homeowner, one of the most important things you need to be aware of is the quality of your water. It's important to know whether you have hard water, the quality of your water, and whether you need different types of water filters.
What is hard water?
Hard water is water that contains a high level of minerals, such as calcium and magnesium. When water is heated, these minerals can form a residue that can clog your pipes, reduce the efficiency of your appliances, and create soap scum on your dishes and clothes. If you notice a build-up of white, chalky substance on your faucets and showerheads, it's likely that you have hard water.
How to test if you have hard water
You can test whether you have hard water by purchasing a test kit from your local home improvement store or ordering one online. The kit will contain a strip of paper that you can dip in your water to test the mineral content. If the paper changes color, it's an indication that you have hard water. Alternatively, you can also look for signs of hard water, such as stains or deposits on your sinks, toilets, and showerheads.
What is the quality of your water?
The quality of your water is another important factor to consider. Poor water quality can lead to health problems, such as stomach issues, skin irritation, and even cancer. It can also affect the taste and smell of your water. To determine the quality of your water, you can contact your local water supplier and request a water quality report. This report will give you an overview of the contaminants present in your water, such as bacteria, lead, and pesticides.
Do you need a water filter?
If you have hard water or poor water quality, you may need to install a water filter. Water filters can remove contaminants, such as lead, chlorine, and bacteria, from your water, making it safer to drink and use. There are several types of water filters available, including activated carbon filters, reverse osmosis filters, and UV filters. Each filter has its own strengths and weaknesses, so it's important to choose one that is suitable for your specific needs.
Activated carbon filters are the most common type of water filter and are great for removing bad taste and odor from water. Reverse osmosis filters, on the other hand, can remove up to 99% of contaminants from water, including lead and pesticides. UV filters use ultraviolet light to kill bacteria and viruses in water, making it safe to drink. Depending on your results and budget you can install a whole house filter, or only add filters on the faucets you use the most.