If you have ever used the water in Orlando, you may have noticed something different. Do you need more water to get a good lather of soap? Does your skin feel dry after a shower? These are signs that your water may have a few issues. But is the water in Orlando hard or soft? Let’s take a look at this important question and find out what you can do to rectify the problem.
What Is the Difference Between Hard and Soft Water?
Hard water contains a lot of minerals, especially calcium and magnesium. As the water flows through the soil and rocks, it picks up these minerals. With that, the water is “”hardened”” with extra magnesium and calcium. On the other hand, soft water does not have this problem. In fact, there is a complete absence of any minerals in the water.
So, what is the difference?
If you’re using soap or shampoo, hard water makes it harder to create a bubbly lather. You may need to use more of these products to get the job done. Once you get out of the shower, your hair might feel sticky, or your skin is left dry. This is due to the build-up of extra minerals from the water.
Also, you may want to check out your dishes, shower door, or other areas. If you see water spots, that is hard water. When the water evaporates, it leaves behind minerals on these surfaces. Additionally, hard water will leave a white, chalky residue on faucets and showerheads. If you have a dishwasher or washing machine, you might notice that chalky mineral build-up on the inside of these machines.
There will be no chalky build-up or water spots if you have soft water. However, you might notice that your soap is more slippery when it becomes wet. In this case, fewer minerals are reacting with the soap. Some people have even described this as a slimy feeling to the water.
Is Orlando’s Water Hard or Soft?
Most of Central Florida is home to hard water. According to water tests, the hardness level in Orlando ranges between 100 to 300 milligrams per liter (mg/L). Those levels are high. That means the area’s water has a large amount of calcium and magnesium.
Since most of the water in Orlando comes from the Floridan Aquifer, it has a large amount of hard minerals. This aquifer is one of the largest underground water systems in the United States. As the water passes through the layers of limestone, it soaks up the calcium. By the time it reaches your home, it has been fortified with these minerals, leaving you with hard water.
How Hard Water Can Affect You
What does this mean for you if you live in Orlando or the surrounding areas? First, you will notice that your skin and hair will feel dry or brittle. You may have to use extra conditioner or lotion to give your body a little more moisture. Also, you may notice you are using more soap than usual in the shower. Once again, that is due to the hard water that prevents you from getting a good lather from your shower products.
You may want to keep an eye on your appliances. Dishwashers and washing machines should be thoroughly cleaned. With the hard water, your appliances will become less efficient and may even cause them to break down sooner than they should. Cleaning them can help to reduce some of those mineral deposits.
Can a Water Softener Help?
If you want to reduce the problems associated with hard water, a water softener can help. These tanks are designed to remove the excess calcium and magnesium from your water supply. When the hard water flows through the tank, special resin beads attract and trap the minerals. The calcium and magnesium will stick to those beads. You are left with “”softened”” water that will flow into your home. With that, you never have to worry about soap scum or water spots again.
Installing a water softener is a long-lasting solution. But it should only be handled by a trained professional. A certified plumber will have the expertise to assess your home’s specific needs. They can help you find the correct size and type of water softener for your water usage. Along with that, they can make sure the unit is installed in the right location.
Hard water is a fact of life in the Orlando area, but you can take steps to lessen its impact on your home and life. If you are ready to find a solution to your water issues, contact the team at Benjamin Franklin Plumbing. We can help with any type of plumbing service, including installations, repairs, and maintenance. Contact us today to learn how we can assist with your home’s plumbing.