There is great news about Lake Michigan water.
There really is some great news about Lake Michigan water coming to Waukesha. The lake water hardness is around 8 GPG (grains per gallon) of hardness. Expressed as calcium carbonate equivalent, this is about 125-140 PPM (Parts Per Million). On dishwasher charts, this usually is rated as hard water. This is the natural hardness of Lake Michigan water, which is derived from the limestone in the lake bed. Current water treatment does not affect hardness.
The good news is that your softener will not need to run as often in order to keep your house water soft, easy to clean off of glass and showers, and it will not build up scale on your dishes, hot water heater, other appliances or faucets and showerheads.
Softener Information
Water hardness is a measure of the amount of calcium and magnesium in water. Hard water can cause a number of problems, including:
- Scale buildup on pipes and appliances
- Soap scum and suds
- Dry skin and hair
- Spots on dishes and laundry
A water softener can help to reduce or eliminate these problems. Studies show that residents start to prefer soft water around 9 gpg.
Benefits of a water softener
A water softener works by exchanging the calcium and magnesium ions in water for sodium ions. This makes the water softer and easier to use.
Some of the benefits of a water softener include:
Reduced scale buildup: Scale buildup can cause pipes and appliances to clog and leak. A water softener can help to prevent this by removing the calcium and magnesium ions that cause scale.
Reduced soap scum and suds: Hard water can cause soap to form suds that are difficult to rinse away. A water softener can help to reduce the amount of suds, making it easier to get a clean wash.
Softer skin and hair: Hard water can make skin and hair feel dry and itchy. A water softener can help to make skin and hair feel softer and more manageable.
Spot-free dishes and laundry: Hard water can leave spots on dishes and laundry. A water softener can help to prevent these spots, making your dishes and laundry look their best.
A water softener can offer a number of benefits, including reduced scale buildup, reduced soap scum and suds, softer skin and hair, and spot-free dishes and laundry. If you live in an area with hard water, a water softener can be a wise investment.
Additional benefits
In addition to the benefits listed above, a water softener can also:
- Improve the taste of water
- Increase the lifespan of appliances
- Reduce the risk of water-related health problems
