Hard water is water with a high mineral content, which can prove to be a nuisance. Although some studies show that there are health benefits to drinking hard water, there is evidence that hard water can exacerbate skin and scalp issues.
According to Scale Guard, a water engineering group, ‘around 60% of the UK is classed as having hard or very hard water.’ This means that many households in the country could face daily challenges caused by hard water, including clogged pipes, faded laundry, and less effective cleaning results.
So, with this in mind, if you live in a hard water environment, you could consider having a water filter installed to soften your water to improve your water quality and protect your plumbing systems.
Not convinced? Let’s explore the key reasons why investing in a water filter system is worth it.
Protects Your Plumbing Systems
Hard water over time can clog your plumbing system due to the build up of calcium and magnesium which passes through drains every time you use your sinks. The minerals attach to pipes and can restrict water flow leading to leaks due to excess pressure on your plumbing systems.
Rather than having to regularly google search ‘drain unblocker near me’ or even replace your plumbing systems which are expensive to replace, you can resolve hard water issues before they become irreversible and extend the life of your water systems.
Weakening Sinks and Baths
Hard water deposits can add weight to sinks and baths over time which could lead to premature wear and tear. So by not filtering hard water, you could risk cracks which could permanently damage sinks and basins, potentially leading to costly replacements. This could also result in higher water bills due to decreased efficiency of bathroom and kitchen appliances.
Soft Water Makes Skin and Hair More Manageable
Soft water can make visible improvements to skin and hair as the impurities in hard water can cause dryness and irritation. Hard water can contribute to hair breakage, frizz and split ends, which could lead to more hair appointments, and expensive hair maintenance routines, which can be an all-around more frustrating experience.
Filtered water makes hair softer as your hair is able to maintain moisture better, as well as clearing out impurities which cause skin issues. Skin issues like breakouts due to clogged pores can be resolved by installing a water softener system.
Or invest in a filtered shower head which is a more affordable option, which can cost as much as £15 on Argos, compared to a water softener system which according to Checkatrade will have a minimum cost of £500, with an additional £350 on average for installation.
However, if you decide on going for a filtered showerhead note that your cartridge filter will have to be replaced every 3-6 months as over time it will lose the ability to effectively filter out your water.
Hard Water Stains
Choosing to filter out your hard water can reduce hard water stains. Calcium and magnesium deposits can form a white, chalky residue on dishes and clothes. You could opt for a hard water stain removal but note this is only temporary and a water filter can keep your dishes and clothes in good condition without having you to constantly use stain removals.
Tastes Better
Soft water for the most part tastes better, and with a water filter, you don’t have to rely on bottled water or have to constantly filter out your water manually. Unless you like the taste of hard water? But if you like the taste of soft water consider investing in a soft water system.
Final Thoughts
Investing in a soft water system might be beneficial if you find that the benefits of a filter outweigh the costs of buying and installing it. The major benefit of a soft water system is that it can extend the life of your plumbing systems so you are not in the position of constantly calling for local drain cleaners to unclog your drains.
While hard water isn’t necessarily harmful to health, preventing limescale buildup in appliances can improve their efficiency and performance. Plus, it can have a positive impact on your well-being by promoting clearer skin and more manageable hair.
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