Hard Water

What is Hard Water?

Water that has high mineral content (in contrast with "soft water"). Hard water is formed when water percolates through deposits of limestone, chalk or gypsum[1] which are largely made up of calcium and magnesium carbonates, bicarbonates and sulphates.

How do we know what type of Water is in the Home?

To Determine if you have hard or soft water at home you can do the soap test. Soft water is typically identified if you can create a decent amount of lather with your bar of soap, which as a rudimentary indication of hardness of water (or litmus test, if you like) is significantly more challenging to achieve in the presence of hard water. Another trick of the trade is the forming of scum on the surface of the water. The dissolved calcium ions and magnesium ions found in hard water, tend to react with the soap to form scum, ergo the need for much more soap if you’re looking to generate lather.

What does it mean if I have hard water?

Hard water causes scaling in hot water systems, kettles, electric irons and domestic appliances. Scaling of heating elements shortens their life and makes appliances less efficient. Hard water produces less lather from soap, washing up liquid and washing powders. It also leaves ‘tide marks’ on basins, sinks, baths and toilets and a scum on the surface of hot drinks, especially tea brewed in the cup with a teabag (due to the air and oil in the tea).

What is a water softener?

Home water softeners, are appliances that remove calcium, magnesium, and other minerals from drinking water. Resin beads inside the softener trap the calcium and magnesium and exchange them for sodium or potassium.