When it comes to using hard or soft water, oftentimes the choice really boils down to personal preferences. In our most recent blog, the professionals at Indiana American Water discuss the differences between hard and soft water and the advantages of each.
What Is Hard Water?
Groundwater is the most common source of hard water. Hard water contains a high mineral content, most notably calcium and magnesium. Hard water commonly occurs as the water moves through chalk and limestone that consist of magnesium carbonate and calcium carbonate.
The Benefits of Hard Water
Indiana American Water does not soften hard water because the calcium and magnesium found in it poses no health threats and can promote stronger bones. Removing calcium and magnesium through advanced processes can increase sodium levels in the water, which can pose health issues for those with high blood pressure. Soft water can also be more corrosive and might shorten the lifespan of your home’s plumbing system.
Depending on your personal preferences, some people are sold on hard water tasting better than soft water due to the minerals, while soft water often is tasteless.
What Is Soft Water?
Soft water is simply water that is free of the contaminants mentioned above. Most homes across the country use hard water, but the minerals such as magnesium and calcium can be removed by water softening systems, creating soft water.
The Benefits of Soft Water
One of the main benefits of using soft water is it’s more effective when it’s used for cleaning and washing clothes, as it doesn’t leave behind the mineral residue that hard water does. Soft water also doesn’t leave behind mineral build-up in the tub and sinks that hard water does.
A Misconception about Hard and Soft Water
One of the biggest misconceptions about hard water is that it will clog or damage your home’s plumbing system. This might be true for homes built between the mid-1940s and mid-1970s which were constructed with steel piping. However, homes constructed after 1975, or homes that have been re-piped, come with copper piping which are not negatively affected by hard water.
Indiana American Water Is Committed to Water Quality
At the end of the day, it’s truly up to your personal preferences whether you prefer using hard water or spending money on buying a water softener system.
At Indiana American Water, we take pride in delivering the safest, most reliable drinking water to our customers across the state of Indiana. We have a team of leading researchers, scientists, water quality specialists and plant operators to ensure the delivery of high quality water to your home or business. Click here to read the most recent water quality information in your area.