Let’s face it, if you live in Calgary you know all about our hard water. You probably see hard water and soap scum build up on your shower doors, mineral build up in your kettle and coffee maker , not to mention needing to use more soap to get a good lather going. There are many signs all around us that in Calgary we have hard water.
But not to worry, installing a water softener in your home can save the day. Learn why installing a water softener is beneficial for both you and your home.
Before diving into how a water softener is essential for your home, lets learn more about what hard water is.
What is Hard Water?
Hard water is water that contains a high level of minerals, primarily calcium and magnesium. While hard water is generally safe to drink, and sometimes preferred. These minerals can accumulate over time, clinging to our appliance, pipes, skin , hair and anything else water from the tap touches.
Why does Calgary have hard water?
Calgary water supply comes from our majestic Rocky Mountain backyard, which means our water has a naturally high mineral content. As water flows down the Bow River over rocks, it picks up minerals that are naturally carried into our water system.
Over time, the mineral buildup or (hard water) can clog pipes, reduce the lifespan of appliances, and leave spots and stains on dishes and clothing. To avoid this natural and safe phenomenon from shortening our belongings’ life span, the solution is to install a water softener.
What is a water softener?
A water softener is essentially exactly what its name implies: it’s a device that will soften or remove the hard minerals from your water before it pipes through the rest of your home.
It works by removing the minerals that cause water hardness, mainly calcium and magnesium (found in our river water), and replacing them with softer minerals, typically sodium or potassium.
When hard water flows through the tank (water softener), the beads catch the calcium and magnesium and swap them for softer things like salt. After a while, the beads get full of hard minerals, so it is essential to maintain salt levels in your water softener.
Why Do You Need a Water Softener in Calgary?
1. Protect Your Pipes and Appliances
One of the main reasons homeowners in Calgary have a water softener is to protect their plumbing and appliances. Over time, hard water can cause mineral buildup in pipes, reducing water flow and increasing the risk of clogs.
Appliances like dishwashers, water heaters, and washing machines also suffer from hard water, leading to inefficiency, higher energy bills, and a shortened lifespan.
2. Save Money on Energy Bills
When your appliances and water heaters have to work harder due to mineral buildup, they consume more energy. A water softener prevents this by reducing the accumulation of scale, allowing your appliances to run more efficiently. Over time, this can result in noticeable savings on your energy bills.
3. Improve Cleaning and Laundry Results
Hard water can leave spots and streaks on dishes, glasses, and silverware, and it can cause your laundry to feel rough or look dull. A water softener helps detergents and soaps work more effectively, leaving your clothes softer and your dishes cleaner. Plus, you’ll notice that soap lathers better and cleans more thoroughly.
4. Healthier Skin and Hair
Bathing in hard water can lead to dry skin and brittle hair. The minerals in hard water can strip moisture from your skin, leaving it feeling tight or irritated. Soft water, on the other hand, is gentler on the skin and hair, helping to retain moisture and leaving your skin feeling smooth and your hair soft and manageable.
5. Extend the Lifespan of Your Home’s Water-Using Systems
By removing harmful minerals from your water, a water softener can extend the lifespan of your home’s plumbing and appliances. Without the constant buildup of scale, your pipes will stay clear, and appliances like water heaters, washing machines, and dishwashers will last longer, reducing repair and replacement costs.
How to Choose the Right Water Softener for Your Calgary Home
When selecting a water softener for your home, it’s essential to consider your household’s size and water usage. A professional water treatment expert can help you determine the right system for your needs. Be sure to choose a high-quality, efficient system that can handle Calgary’s specific water conditions and help ensure long-term performance.
Investing in a water softener for your Calgary home is wise and will pay off in the long run.
From extending the life of your plumbing and appliances to improving your cleaning and laundry results, a water softener provides numerous benefits. Whether you’re tired of dealing with mineral buildup or simply want to enjoy softer water for your skin and hair, a water softener is the solution.
Contact a local water treatment expert today to learn how a water softener can make a difference in your Calgary home.
Ready to improve your water quality and protect your home from hard water damage? Contact Us today to schedule an appointment