How Very Hard Water Affects Your Family's Skin and Hair
While safe to drink, the high mineral content in Greenwood Village's water impacts daily life. The primary issue is how it interacts with soaps and detergents, preventing them from lathering properly and leaving behind a residue. This leads to common complaints like:
- Dry, itchy skin and aggravated eczema
- Dull, brittle hair with a filmy residue
- Soap scum buildup on shower doors and fixtures
For families with infants, preparing baby formula with very hard water can be a consideration, although it does not pose a direct health risk.
Filtration Guide for 13.4 GPG Water
With water hardness at this level, targeted filtration is a financially sound investment. A simple pitcher filter is not sufficient to protect your home's plumbing and appliances.
- Recommended: A whole-house water softener is the most effective solution. It removes the hardness minerals entirely, protecting your entire plumbing system. For drinking water, it's best to pair it with an under-sink reverse osmosis (RO) system.
- Alternative: Salt-free water conditioners are a viable option for those who want to prevent scale buildup without using salt. They don't remove minerals but change their structure to prevent them from sticking to surfaces.
The financial payback is clear: A whole-house softener (around $1,500 installed) pays for itself in about 10.4 years through annual savings of $144 on energy, detergents, and prolonged appliance life.