The Effect on Skin, Hair, and Comfort
While safe to drink, the high mineral content in Forest Lake's water creates daily annoyances. The minerals react with soap to form a residue, often called soap scum, that clings to surfaces.
- Skin and Hair: This residue can leave skin feeling dry and itchy and cause hair to become brittle and dull. It can be especially problematic for those with sensitive skin conditions like eczema.
- Bathing and Cleaning: You may notice that soap doesn't lather well, and a film is left on you and your shower doors. This same effect makes cleaning surfaces more difficult.
Smart Filtration Choices for Forest Lake
For moderately hard water at 6.9 GPG, the best solution is often the simplest. A whole-house water softener, costing around $1,500 installed, provides only $72 in annual savings and would take nearly 21 years to pay for itself. A more practical strategy for Forest Lake residents is a targeted one:
- For Drinking Water: An NSF-certified pitcher filter or a faucet-mounted unit is the most economical way to get great-tasting, mineral-free water for drinking and cooking.
- For Appliance Protection: If you are primarily concerned about protecting your water heater and dishwasher from scale, a salt-free water conditioner is an effective, low-maintenance option that doesn't add sodium to your water.
Consider that an under-sink reverse osmosis (RO) system costs less than what the average U.S. family spends on bottled water in a single year ($600-$900) and provides superior quality water on demand.