Washing your clothes isn’t rocket science. But sometimes, it can feel more difficult than it should. If you notice that something is not right with your laundry process, the root of the problem could be hard water. Today, we’ll outline three surprising signs that point to hard water. If you notice one or more, it may be time to install a water-softening system.
What Is Hard Water?
If the natural water in your community contains a high mineral content, you’ll likely have “hard” water. Minerals like calcium and magnesium can build up in your plumbing system and cause a variety of problems.
Fortunately, hard water does not pose a health hazard. However, hard water can affect your appliances. It makes detergent ineffective, causes appliances to malfunction, and increases your energy bills. In short, it can wreak havoc on your home.
Unfortunately, it can also irritate your skin. Mineral deposits dry out the skin and lead to flaking and itching. It may taste metallic and develop a distinct odor—making drinking from the tap especially unappealing.
How Does Hard Water Affect Your Laundry?
Unfortunately, there are many ways that your clothing and linens may suffer from hard water. We’ve outlined three of the most surprising effects below.
- Streaks
Hard water makes it harder for detergent to dissolve into the water. As a result, minerals and detergent can leave streaks on the clothing. After several washes, your clothing may come out of the dryer with a yellow or gray tint.
- Stiffness
A high mineral content can cause your clothes and linens to feel stiff as they come out of the dryer. That’s because the magnesium and calcium attach themselves to the fabric of your clothes and then get hardened on.
- Tears
As your clothes get stiff, more strain is put on weak fibers in the fabric. Over time, this can lead to more holes, tears, and breaks in fabrics. If you notice any of these problems, get in touch with a water treatment company to address the problem right away. That way, you can avoid permanently damaging your clothes and linens.
How Can You Test the Hardness of Your Water?
If you are unsure whether your home has hard water, there are a few Orlando water testing methods to check the mineral levels. First, keep an eye out for these warning signs:
- A layer of film or spots on your dishes
- A ring around your bathtubs or toilet bowls
- Limescale on showerheads, faucets, and drains
- Chronically dry and itchy skin
If you notice any of these signs, you know that hard water is likely. For concrete answers, you can consult with Orlando water treatment professionals.
If you do have a hard water problem, an Orlando water softener is the best way to resolve it. Fortunately, these machines are very effective and long-lasting. With professional installation and regular maintenance, you can enjoy softer water that feels great on your skin (and keeps your laundry looking bright, too!).