Which Minerals and Chemicals are Found in Utah’s Hard Water?
Have you ever washed your hands and after felt a residue left on your hands? Or washed your dishes in a dishwasher only to find your glasses riddled with spots? These are the effects of hard water. Hard water is water that has a certain amount of minerals dissolved in it, mostly calcium and magnesium.
While hard water isn’t bad for you, a lot of people prefer to have soft water in their homes. The way you get soft water is through water softeners. If you’re considering making the switch from hard to soft water, call us and we’d be happy to answer any questions you may have.
What is Hard Water
Hard water is water that contains both minerals and chemicals. Typically, the water makes it hard to do dishes, laundry, and bathing because it prevents soap from lathering up. Water hardness is measured in grains per gallon and the scale is as follows:
- Slightly Hard: 1 to 3.5
- Moderately Hard: 3.5 to 7
- Hard: 7 to 10.5
- Very Hard: 10.5 or Higher
Typically, harder water means more unwanted residue. Here in Utah, we’re no stranger to hard water because of the high levels of calcium carbonate. In Salt Lake City, the water hardness is about 13 grains per gallon, but other areas of Utah may be higher or lower depending on what city you live in. If you’re curious to know the water hardness in your area, check out our hard water tool.
The Minerals Found in Hard Water
Hard water is generally safe to drink and some argue that it can be beneficial to your health because it contains minerals that are good for us. The type of minerals found in your hard water all depends on where you live but the two most common minerals found in hard water are magnesium, calcium, and sometimes iron. These minerals stay in the water after it has been treated and cleaned for drinking and are usually what gives water a more metallic taste.
Along with minerals, some chemicals can be found in hard water as well, but these chemicals aren’t what you think. They’re chemical elements and the ones found in hard water aren’t typically bad for you. Some of the chemicals that can be found are carbonates, bicarbonates, and sulfates.
All the minerals and chemicals that are found in hard water are water-soluble, meaning they dissolve in water. The hardness of water isn’t a health concern but it can be a nuisance. The only way to remove minerals and chemicals from your water is through the process of water softening, typically done with a water softener. For more information about water softener and the installation process, check out our page here.
Hard Water Solutions
While it isn’t bad for your health to drink it, some frustration most homeowners have include:
- Metallic Tasting Water
- Red or Brown Stains on Appliances
- Soap Scum or Calcium Build-up
- Clogged Pipes
There are multiple solutions to fixing a hard water problem, the most common is with a water softener. While hard water may not frustrate you, a lot of people will tell you that installing a water softener is worth the investment, but how do they work?
Water softening is a simple process. As hard water passes through the water softener the mineral ions attach to the resin beads. There the mineral ions are exchanged for sodium ions, thus removing the minerals and chemicals that make your water hard.
After installing a water softener some of the immediate changes you could see are:
- Softer, Healthier Hair and Skin
- Cleaner and Softer Clothes
- Save on Hot Water Costs
- Reduces Build-up in Appliances
Installing a water softener in your home can make a world of difference. Here at Shamrock Plumbing, not only can our plumbers install your water softener, but we can also help repair and maintain them as well. If you’re ready end your home’s hard water problem, give us a call at 801-505-9505
Why Shamrock Plumbing?
For over 30 years we’ve dedicated and experienced plumbers who have been committed to serving the Wasatch Front. When you hire Shamrock Plumbing, you can expect:
- A simple process.
- Friendly and fast service.
- Quick problem-solving.
- Future problem prevention.
We want your experience with Shamrock Plumbing to be stress-free, which is why we offer a transparent process, competitive pricing, and a wide service area for Salt Lake City.
Give us a call! We’re happy to answer questions over the phone: 801-505-9505.
