How to Test Water Hardness

Testing water hardness can be done with simple DIY methods or by a professional. Learning your water hardness level is critical if you've been struggling with issues like scaling in pipes, appliance damage, and soap efficiency. Keep reading to learn key information, including:

Water hardness is common, but you don't have to accept it. Opting for a water treatment system can soften your water supply and protect your pipes and appliances.

Hard water may be common across the United States, but it's also tough on your home's pipes and appliances. It can even interfere with how well soap works when you're cleaning.

Testing your water can reveal potential issues to be aware of, such as scaling in pipes, reduced appliance efficiency, and poor soap efficiency. It can also help you find the right water treatment solution for your home. A water treatment solution can be a costly investment, but it offers long-term savings on appliance and pipe repairs and replacements of your household systems.

Ideally, you should have a professional test your water hardness before investing in a water treatment solution. If you don't want to wait for a professional to test your water hardness or you want to figure out if you need a professional test in the first place, you can get a general idea of mineral content within minutes.

The easiest DIY way to test for hard water is to use soap and water.

1. Fill a water bottle to about 1/3 full from your unfiltered tap.
2. Add a few drops of liquid soap to the bottle.
3. Shake it for a few seconds, then see what happens.

If you notice that the water looks cloudy or milky with few soap bubbles, you have hard water. If the water is soft, the water remains clear and creates frothy bubbles.

You can also purchase a test kit from a local hardware store. These test strips can help quantify the mineral content in your water supply by displaying a color based on hardness.

Professional testing adds an extra degree of accuracy to your water testing. Professionals have specialized equipment that allows them to identify mineral levels in water. If your DIY tests reveal high hardness levels, it's time for a professional evaluation and expert advice to help you find the ideal solution.

Murray Service Co. is one such company offering water testing and treatment services to help address hard water quickly and efficiently. Reach out today to learn more.

Once you know you have hard water, it's time to act. Water softeners and whole-house filtration systems can provide long-term results by treating your hard water at its source before it enters your plumbing.

Beyond that, take the time to maintain your appliances and plumbing that can be affected by hard water. Invest in regular inspections and annual maintenance services, both before and after addressing your hard water.

For expert recommendations, water treatments, and plumbing service in a hurry, call Murray.