Hard water is the source of many problems we encounter in our households. What we describe as “hard water” is typically water that has high concentrations of mineral salts, such as magnesium and calcium. Depending on the degree of hardness, which refers to the amount of calcium and magnesium deposits found in the composition, the water we use can become more dangerous than we think.

Here are a few signs you might be dealing with a hard water problem.

1. Unusual Smell or Taste
If you’ve recently noticed either a weird taste or smell (or both!) in your water, then you might be experiencing hard water issues.
Water with a slight metallic taste could be an indicator of too much iron or manganese in it, while water with a more salty taste can reveal a large amount of sodium chloride, sulfates or other groundwater-associated salts. Odor can tell you a lot about your water, too, so make sure to call in a plumber if you notice a foul smell.
Clean drinking water is vital for your health, so don’t underestimate its importance and take control of the issue as soon as you notice changes in your water. Consider hiring a plumbing service in Winnipeg to take a look.

2. You and Your Family Have Skin Irritations
How do you feel after you’ve stepped out of the shower or washed your hands? Do you feel your hair and skin are clean and smooth or rather dry and almost itchy at times? If the answer is the latter one, then that’s a sign you’ve got a hard water problem going on. While hard water is not the reason for developing skin conditions, there is evidence that shows it can aggravate different problems.
Build-ups of soap scum that remain on your skin despite the amount of water you use to rinse it can turn into a big problem since these residues can clog your pores. Clogged pores can worsen any skin condition you or your family might have, such as eczemas or acne. Moreover, soap scums can inhibit natural oil distribution and lead to skin breakouts.
If your skin is looking and feeling dry and dull, then that’s also a sign you’re using too much hard water. The mineral deposits found in the water can damage healthy skin cells, highlighting fine lines or wrinkles and making you look older than you are.

3. Non-Functional Appliances
Are your appliances letting you down one by one, despite the fact that they haven’t been purchased that long ago? That is another clear sign you might be having hard water issues.
Minerals like calcium and magnesium are one of the worst enemies water-consuming appliances have. Because of the buildup of sediment in your water, your dishwasher, washing machine, and even your fridge will be less efficient and reach the end of their lifecycle sooner than expected.

This is one of the most expensive issues you can experience due to hard water, so consider thinking of a long-term solution to fix it. If you’re looking to replace your appliances, make sure to choose high-efficiency ones that will last longer.
However, don’t forget about the root problem – hard water. Continuing to run hard water through your appliances will only get you in the same situation a few years down the line. So, try to fix this issue before you invest in new appliances.

4. Clogged Shower Heads and Pipes
You’ve been waiting all day for a long, hot shower only to find out you have no water pressure.
If this scenario sounds very familiar, then that’s another red flag for hard water that has probably built up residues in the shower head, making it difficult to use it properly. If you also feel like you’re not getting as clean as you should and if you have a hard time lathering up, it’s clear you’re experiencing serious issues with the water in your home.

Plumbing issues are a direct result of hard water as well. If you have an older, steel plumbing system, mineral deposits on the inside of your pipes can constrict water flow, clogging your pipes frequently.

While many of the problems you’re facing could have an individual solution to them, it’s safe to say that solving your hard water issues could significantly improve each and every one. Consider installing a water softener – the investment might be difficult at first, but it could save a lot of time and trouble in the long run.