Effects on Skin and Hair
The impact of 6.6 GPG water is mild but noticeable. You might experience:
- Slightly drier skin, as soap doesn't rinse away as cleanly.
- Hair that feels less soft than it does when washed in soft water.
- The need to use more soap, shampoo, and conditioner to achieve a good lather.
The mineral content is perfectly safe for consumption and poses no health risks.
Choosing the Right Filter in Airmont
With moderate hardness, a whole-house system is typically not a financially sound investment. Targeted solutions offer the best value.
- Recommended: For most households, a quality pitcher filter (like ZeroWater or Brita Longlast+) or an under-sink filter is sufficient for improving the taste of drinking water. For appliance protection without the expense of a full softener, a salt-free water conditioner can reduce scale buildup effectively.
- The Payback Problem: A full water softener would save an Airmont resident about $72 per year. At an installed cost of $1,500, the payback period is nearly 21 years, making it a poor financial choice unless you are extremely sensitive to hardness issues.