How Moderately Hard Water Affects Your Family
While the minerals in Fort Smith's water are not a health hazard, they certainly affect daily life. The primary complaint is how hard water reacts with soap. Instead of a rich lather, it forms a sticky curd, leaving a residue on your skin and hair. This can lead to:
- Dry, itchy skin and scalp
- Dull, brittle, or limp hair
- Difficulty getting a clean rinse after showering
For families with infants, using moderately hard water to prepare formula can be a concern for mineral content, although it's generally considered safe.
The Right Filtration for Fort Smith
With water hardness at 6.0 GPG, a full whole-house water softener is not a cost-effective investment for most residents. The numbers confirm this: a system costing around $1,500 would only save you an estimated $63 per year in energy and soap. It would take nearly 24 years to pay for itself.
A more practical approach includes:
- For Drinking Water: A quality pitcher filter (like Brita or ZeroWater) or a faucet-mount filter will effectively remove minerals and chlorine for better-tasting water. An under-sink reverse osmosis (RO) system is a premium option that also eliminates the need for bottled water, which costs the average family $600-$900 per year.
- For Cleaning: Using a rinse aid in your dishwasher is essential to prevent spotting on glassware.