What Makes Water Hard — And How Does It Become Soft?
As water flows through layers of rock underground, it picks up loose particles and dissolves minerals from its surroundings. Because of this characteristic, and the kind of rock common in many aquifers, calcium and magnesium minerals are frequently found in household water. Water with substantial amounts of calcium and magnesium is referred to as “hard water.” Hard water minerals reduce water’s ability to function effectively in our homes. For instance, bath soap combines with the minerals and forms a pasty scum that accumulates on bathtubs and sinks. Homeowners must use more soap and detergent in washing, so expense for these products increases. These minerals also combine with soap in the laundry, and the residue doesn’t rinse well from fabric, leaving clothes dull. Hard water spots appear on everything that it is washed in and around the home – from dishes and silverware to the family car. Hard water not only affects household cleaning, but the minerals also can build up on the insi
