Many people believe that if they have city water, there’s no need for a water softener. However, this isn’t the case, and city water is often hard, meaning it contains excess minerals.
It’s a myth that city water is soft and well water is hard. Because city water comes from sources like lakes and rivers rather than a well, its mineralization occurs as it passes through bedrock and may actually be more difficult to remove. Read on to find out why a water softener is still a smart idea.
Do I need a water softener if I have city water?
City water is treated so that it meets U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) requirements for healthy and safe consumption. However, minerals that remain in your water could still harm your home’s plumbing system. The fact is that hard water can increase the need for expensive plumbing repairs.
Beyond this, minerals in your tap water could prevent you from enjoying all the benefits of clean, soft water. These minerals are liable to cause dry skin, result in calcium and scale buildup on sinks and tubs, fade your clothes and lead to higher water bills.
Chlorine and added elements in city water
Another common issue with city water is that it has a swimming pool quality to its taste. That’s because chlorine may be added during municipal treatment of water. This is done so the water is free of bacteria and is safe to drink. However, once city water reaches your home, chlorine is no longer needed. The chlorine that’s left over may make your water taste like bleach and dry out your skin.
Other problems with city water include PFOA chemicals and lead, which may be introduced to the water after it leaves a city facility. Municipal water may also not remove enough calcium and magnesium carbonate. These lead to hard water which results in soap scum and scale buildup.
An analysis of your home’s water can help pinpoint the source of the problem. This can be the first step toward figuring out the problem with your water before moving forward with a solution. You can find a water testing kit at hardware stores or ask an expert plumber to help you with the process.
Water softener considerations
There’s a wide range of water softeners on the market now. Reverse osmosis filters are popular because they remove the minerals found in hard water, as well as chlorine and other contaminants. After you’ve tested your water, talk with a professional about what the best water softening option is for your home.
If you’re wondering, “Should I still get a water softener even if I already have city water?” we hope this article helps guide your decision. Big City Plumbing, LLC is here to make sure all our customers have functional, reliable and efficient water softening equipment. We will do everything we can to keep your water free of harmful buildup. Give us a call today to learn more about our water softener services.