Water Hardness

 

Hard water contains high levels of dissolved calcium and magnesium ions. Calcium and magnesium occur naturally in soils. As groundwater or surface water comes into contact with these minerals, they may dissolve and enter the water supply. Calcium and magnesium help give water a pleasant taste and are necessary for our health. A small portion of our necessary dietary intake of calcium and magnesium comes from the water we drink.

During the treatment process, Del-Co lowers the hardness of the water by removing some of these minerals.  There are many ways to measure water hardness.  Del-Co Water is approximately 7 – 8 grains per gallon.  This is equivalent to 120 – 140 mg/L (or parts per million).  If you need a more specific hardness concentration, please call 740-548-7746.  

Water hardness is measured in a lab by the amount of calcium carbonate present. Although there’s no standard for the classification of water hardness, the following chart provides generally accepted classifications based on the concentration of calcium carbonate.



It is important to note that the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has not set a legal limit or standard for hardness in water. This is primarily because the constituents that contribute to hardness (generally calcium and magnesium ions) are not toxic; that is, they do not cause harmful health effects.

Water Softeners

A typical water-softening system removes calcium and magnesium ions from hard water and replaces them with sodium ions. Calcium and magnesium ions interfere with the action of household soaps and detergents, but sodium does not. The water-softening process thus helps detergents to more effectively remove dirt and oils from clothing and dishes. It also helps soaps to give a “slippery” feel to your skin when you wash. Most manufacturers of water softeners recommend that you reduce the amount of soap and detergents you use after installing a water softener.