How Hard Water Affects Your Family's Skin and Hair
While not a direct health hazard, the high mineral content in Avon's water is a quality-of-life issue. Hard water reacts with soap to form a sticky scum that doesn't rinse clean, leaving a residue on your body. This can lead to:
- Dry, itchy skin and aggravated eczema conditions.
- Dull, brittle hair that is difficult to style.
- A feeling of film or residue on your skin after showering.
For families with infants, preparing formula with hard water can slightly increase the mineral concentration your baby consumes.
Filtration Solutions for Avon's Hard Water
With a hardness level of 9.3 GPG, your home falls into the 'hard' water category where treatment is highly recommended. Here are your best options:
- Salt-Free Water Conditioner: For most homes in Avon, a salt-free conditioner is an excellent choice. It doesn't remove the healthy minerals but instead alters their structure so they can't form hard scale on pipes and heaters. This protects your appliances without the need for salt bags or a brine discharge.
- Water Softener: For maximum effect, a traditional salt-based water softener removes hardness minerals entirely. The financial breakeven is longer, however. A whole-house softener (~$1,500 installed) pays for itself in about 15.2 years through annual savings of $99 on energy, detergent, and appliance longevity.
- Drinking Water Filter: Regardless of your whole-house choice, an under-sink reverse osmosis (RO) system or a quality pitcher filter is recommended to improve the taste of drinking water and coffee.