Hard Water and Softened Water: Understand the Differences

There is hard and soft water, and understanding the difference can help a homeowner choose the best water for their needs.

Water is essential for life and is used for various purposes such as cooking, drinking, cleaning, irrigation, etc. However, not all water is the same. There is hard and soft water, and understanding the difference can help a homeowner choose the best water for their needs. So, keep reading to find out more.

What is hard water?

Hard water contains dissolved minerals, such as magnesium and calcium. These minerals come from various sources, such as leaching from the formation of rocks and runoff from industrial and agricultural activities.

Hard water can leave behind a buildup of minerals in appliances, pipes, and fixtures. This buildup can, over time, cause clogs in plumbing fixtures and reduce water flow from faucets and showerheads. It can also reduce the efficiency of appliances throughout the home. Additionally, hard water can leave behind spots on glassware, dishes, and clothing and makes it harder to lather soap.

In the sphere of personal hygiene, hard water doesn’t stand up well either. It causes dry skin, eczema, and dandruff. It also makes hair dull and lifeless.

On a high note, hard water is safe to drink. It is a good source of magnesium and calcium, and some individuals find it tastier than soft water.

What is soft water?

Soft water is water that has been treated to remove dissolved minerals. It is desirable for household use because it does not leave behind mineral buildup and makes it easy to lather soap. Soft water is also recommended for personal hygiene. It can soften and moisturize hair and the skin, making them more manageable. Furthermore, it doesn’t clog water fixtures around the house, thus increasing their lifespan.

The only downside to soft water is that it is tasteless and doesn’t contain minerals that might be useful for the body.

Which one is better?

Choosing between hard water and soft water depends on personal needs and preferences. For example, soft water is best for cleaning and keeping water fixtures running smoothly. Hard water, on the other hand, is best for those who want to increase their magnesium and calcium intake. These minerals can promote healthy teeth and bones and improve cardiovascular health.

Let a professional help

Have a professional test whether the water in the home is hard or soft. Also, one can use test kits available in most hardware stores to perform this water test.

Once a homeowner knows the hardness of their water, they can decide whether they want to install a water softener or any other water treatment system to remove dissolved minerals from their water. Please consult a professional for the best water softening options in the area.


Much Better Plumbing is the premier residential and commercial plumbing service for homeowners and businesses in the Las Vegas area. We are licensed, bonded, and insured. Call us today at 702-996-5220.