Soft water has a number of advantages over hard water, for both you and your plumbing. The main problem with hard water is that it leaves a residue of minerals behind. This crusty buildup, known as scale, can clog plumbing and appliances, stain porcelain, and discolor teeth. Hard water also produces a soap scum that stays on your skin, coats your hair, leaves spots on dishes, and creates the infamous 'bathtub ring.' With soft water, your hair, skin and clothing rinse better, leaving them truly clean. Soft water is more efficient, too: it requires only half as much soap or detergent to make a lather, thereby saving you money. Some people think soft water also tastes better. That's because a water conditioner not only removes hardness minerals, it may remove inorganic chemicals as well, such as iron, fluoride, and nitrate. You should keep in mind, though, that ion exchange softeners add sodium to the water, making it unsuitable for watering plants. To find out more about the differences between hard water and soft water, visit the library, or consult a water conditioning dealer.
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