Depending on where you live, water can be very different. Some areas have very hard water, and others have soft, which accounts for slight differences in taste or the feel of the water itself.
What is hard water?
Hard water is the name given to water that has a lot of minerals, mostly magnesium and calcium, dissolved in it. These minerals are naturally found in the ground and can dissolve in rainwater if it passes through porous rocks, such as limestone. The hardness of water is measured in terms of calcium carbonate concentration – the higher the reading, the harder the water.
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Is hard water bad for you?
While hard water is not harmful to human health, it can have several undesirable effects. It can cause your skin to dry out and also create mineral build-up in your hair.
Limescale can be left on shower doors and inside kettles. Around 60% of all water supplies in the UK are hard , which means that pipes can often be blocked due to limescale buildup, reducing water flow and the efficiency of water heaters.
If you find that your sinks are becoming slow to drain away, and you live in a hard water area, this might indicate a problem with your drains. A professional company will be able to advise on the best way to solve issues such as limescale residue. If necessary, drain lining Oldbury is available to replace any broken drains quickly and efficiently. More information can be found by contacting a specialist such as: https://www.wilkinson-env.co.uk/sewer-repairs-drain-lining-concrete-cutting/drain-repairs/drain-repairs-oldbury/.
What is soft water?
Soft water, on the other hand, contains a low concentration of dissolved minerals and is usually gentler on your home and body. Sediment particles have been removed in soft water, making it kinder to appliances such as dishwashers and washing machines.
Soft water can also increase the effectiveness of soap due to the lack of minerals in the water. This means shampoos, conditioners, and shower gels last longer. Soft water doesn’t dry the skin out and can reduce uncomfortable skin conditions, such as eczema.