Signs that you have hard water include white or yellowish buildup on fixtures, stains in sinks and toilets, reduced water flow, and appliances that operate less efficiently than they should.
Yes, hard water can cause significant damage to your plumbing system by causing scale buildup, corrosion, and clogs. Over time, this can lead to leaks, backups, and other serious plumbing issues.
A water softener is a device that removes the minerals that cause hardness from the water supply. It does this by exchanging calcium and magnesium ions for sodium ions, effectively softening the water. By removing these minerals, a water softener helps prevent scale buildup, corrosion, and clogs, protecting your plumbing system from damage and extending its lifespan.
A few downsides to using a water softener include the need to add salt to the system periodically and the potential for increased sodium levels in the water supply. However, these downsides are generally minimal compared to the benefits of having softened water and protecting your plumbing system from damage.