Treating hard water is the most common problem faced by homeowners throughout Los Angeles.
Signs Of Hard Water
If you are experiencing an issue with hard water, you may notice that:
- Your washing machine will experience problems creating a lather, which in turn can leave clothes looking gray and dingy
- Getting a good lather of soap will be nearly impossible
- Soap scum rings have formed in the bathtub, shower, and sinks
- White residue has built up in your faucets, showerheads, coffee pots, and other water fixtures
How To Get Rid Of Hard Water
The simplest solution to fix a hard water problem is to install a water softener. The water softener will remove the magnesium and calcium that lead to hard water problems. This should restore the water quality and also serve to save your plumbing from damage. Be aware that water softeners add sodium to the water supply. This can be unhealthy for persons on a low sodium diet. An alternative is to only treat the hot water supply. You could also install separate plumbing for the water that will be consumed, e.g. the kitchen sink.
Why Causes Rust In Water?
If your water appears rusty you may be experiencing an issue with your pipes or sediment in your water, often from your water heater specifically. You may notice some key signs that indicate such a problem.
- Rusty water will appear as stains around the drains of your sinks, bathtubs, and inside the toilet.
- The water itself will often have a reddish color.
- Clothing will often have rust stains.
Fixing the problem of rust in your water can also be solved using a water softener. You will need to attach an oxidizing filter or chlorination feeder and an activated carbon filter. There are also types of salt that can be added to your water softener which removes the rust.
Why Are There Green Stains On My Drains?
Some homes will also have green stains around the drains. Typically you will also find that your metal pipes are corroded. This is a sign that your water is acidic and has a low pH level. To fix this water quality problem you will need to install a neutralizing particle filter. If the problems continue, you will need to install a continuous feeder with an alkaline solution. Be sure a qualified plumber inspects your pipes to make sure the corrosion has not gone too far.
Why Does My Water Smell Like Rotten Eggs?
If your water has a rotten egg smell, your water contains hydrogen sulfide.
- This water problem will often leave silverware tarnished
- You also may find that your water appears black
You should install an oxidizing filter. If the problems continue, you need to install a chlorination feeder system, a particle filter, and an activated carbon filter. Hydrogen sulfide in your water can corrode your metal pipes and damage appliances. Have a professional plumber do a complete inspection if you find the water problem has resulted in pipe damage.
Why Is My Water Brown?
If your water has a yellow or brownish color as well as an unpleasant taste, the problem may be caused by algae or another organic material in the water supply. The fix for minor water problems caused by algae is a particle filter. In more significant cases, you will need to install a continuous feeder to add a chlorine solution to the water. Be sure to also use an activated carbon filter.
Why Is My Well Water Cloudy?
Well water will often have a cloudy or dirty appearance. This is a result of silt, mud, sand, or dirt in the well water. Typically a particle filter will restore the water quality. In some cases, you may need an activated carbon filter to remove any odors in the water.
Is Bacterial Contamination In My Water Supply Dangerous?
The water quality problem most feared by homeowners is bacterial contamination. Disease producing bacteria in the water supply can lead to diarrhea, dysentery, nausea, or hepatitis. The source of the contamination must be determined before the water can be properly treated. Your local health department can advise you where to have your water tested. Be sure to choose a lab that is properly certified to test drinking water. Homes using well water should test their water supply at least once a year.
How To Remove Bacteria From Water
Given the potential harm to your health, you likely will want to consult with a Los Angeles water quality expert to discuss ways to fix the water problem.
- In some cases, chlorination can kill the bacteria
- There are also ultraviolet water purification lamps (UV lights) which can kill the bacteria in the water. Be sure to ask about the proper class of the UV light and make sure it has a sensitivity monitor
To learn more about hard water and other related water quality issues, reach out to the expert team at Pro Water Solutions in Los Angeles today.