How Very Hard Water Affects Your Family
While not a direct health hazard, 16.5 GPG water creates daily frustrations. The high mineral content prevents soap and shampoo from rinsing cleanly, leaving a residue that can lead to:
- Dry, itchy skin and aggravated eczema
- Dull, brittle hair with a lack of volume
- Soap scum buildup on shower doors, tubs, and sinks
For families, preparing baby formula with very hard water can be a concern due to the high mineral concentration, often leading parents to rely on expensive bottled water.
Filtration Recommendations for Temperance
With water this hard, simple pitcher or faucet filters are insufficient. For Temperance homeowners, a two-part solution is the most effective approach:
- Primary System: A whole-house water softener is essential. It removes the hardness minerals at the source, protecting all your pipes and appliances. Salt-free conditioners are an alternative if you want to avoid salt discharge.
- Drinking Water: An under-sink Reverse Osmosis (RO) system provides purified water for drinking and cooking, removing any remaining impurities and the taste associated with hard water. This also eliminates the need for bottled water, which costs the average family $600-$900 per year.
A whole-house softener (~$1,500 installed) pays for itself in approximately 8.5 years through annual savings of $176 on energy from Consumers Energy or DTE, detergents, and premature appliance replacement costs.