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How hard water is depends on the amount of calcium carbonate in it. The industry measures calcium carbonate in water in milligrams per liter (mg/L). Water with calcium carbonate up to 60 mg/L is soft and not a concern at all. Moderately hard water has between 61 and 120 mg/L. At this level, you may need an anti-scale device for your water heater and perhaps should consider a whole-house water softener.
Hard water has between 121 and 180 mg/L of calcium carbonate. The industry considers any amount above that as very hard. At these levels, experts strongly encourage homeowners to invest in point-of-entry (POE) water softeners. These systems function between the home’s water main and plumbing system. That ensures only softened water enters the house.
Without softening, limescale can build up in pipes. That can reduce water pressure and eventually lead to corrosion and premature failure. Scale can decrease energy efficiency and increase the operating costs related to boilers, water heaters, dishwashers, and so forth. It can also shorten the lifespan of your appliances, including washing machines.
While hard water is usually safe to drink, it can make water cloudy and chalky in texture. It’s also not ideal for cooking. The calcium carbonate can cause chemical reactions that result in unexpected smells and tastes.
What if you need water purification and softening? There are several solutions available. Reverse osmosis systems with remineralization filters are all-in-one solutions. There are traditional water purifiers that provide water conditioning for minor hardness problems. You can also install a separate water softener and water purifier and have them work together.
A water softening system can provide a household with many benefits.
- Greater energy efficiency
- Lower water consumption
- Reduced plumbing maintenance
- Better water for drinking and cooking
- Enhanced shower and bath experiences