Do I Need a Water Softener in Central Florida?

When it comes to the quality of water running through our homes, many of us don’t give it much thought. We assume the water coming from our taps is safe and clean. However, that isn’t always the case, particularly in Central Florida, where the water is naturally hard. Hard water is full of minerals like calcium and magnesium, which can damage your plumbing systems, leave behind unsightly stains, and be harsh on hair and skin. That’s why investing in a whole-home water softening system is a wise decision for every homeowner in Central Florida.

Water Hardness in Central Florida

Like we mentioned, hard water is caused by dissolved minerals like calcium, magnesium, and manganese. It’s a pretty common issue, affecting water in more than 85% of the country, according to the Water Quality Association.

Water hardness refers to how good water is at neutralizing soap. People usually measure hardness in terms of calcium carbonate concentration. That’s the amount of calcium carbonate needed to create the same level of hardness as all the substances that cause hardness in the water. When the calcium concentration is higher than 10.5 grains per gallon (gpg) or 180 parts per million (ppm), the water is considered very hard.

Now, let’s talk about the Florida aquifer. It’s the underground water source that covers all of Florida. In the northwestern part and throughout much of the center of the state, the hardness of the water is less than 180 ppm. However, in most other areas of the state, including some parts where it can reach as high as 1,900 ppm, the aquifer gives water with a greater hardness.

Is Hard Water a Big Deal?

You might be asking, “Why is hard water such a big deal?” Besides leaving behind stains on fixtures and appliances, hard water also causes limescale buildup in pipes and appliances. Limescale is the chalky substance that builds up on your showerheads, faucet aerators, and plumbing fixtures. It’s also hard to remove and can cause your appliances to break down prematurely. By investing in a water softener, you’ll eliminate these issues and prolong the life of your appliances.

Another benefit of using a water softener is that it’s gentler on your skin and hair. If you have hard water, you might notice that your hair feels dull, dry, and brittle, and your skin feels rough and itchy. The minerals in hard water can strip your skin of its natural oils and cause irritation. But with a water softener, you can have soft, silky hair and smoother skin.

How Do Water Softeners Work?

Essentially, a water softener works by removing the mineral ions that cause water hardness. The most common way to do this is through the process of ion exchange. As hard water enters the water softening system, it flows through a tank filled with resin beads. These beads are charged with positively charged sodium ions when the hard water passes through. The calcium and magnesium ions are attracted to the resin beads, and the sodium ions are released in their place.

How Do I Know if I Need a Water Softener in My Home?

There are a few signs to look out for that indicate your home would benefit from a whole-home water softener, including:

• Limescale buildup on fixtures
• Clothes are stiff and scratchy after washing
• Dishes have water spots after being cleaned
• Dry skin or hair issues

Water Softening Solutions From Iceberg Home Services

Investing in a whole-home water softening system is a smart decision for homeowners in Central Florida. It will not only prolong the life of your appliances but also give you softer skin and hair. If you’re experiencing any of the signs of hard water, don’t hesitate to contact Iceberg Home Services today. Our team of experts will help you determine the right water-softening system for your home.

Call (863) 223-1849 to schedule water softening services in Central Florida today!