How Very Hard Water Affects Your Family
While the minerals in Dover's water are not a health hazard, they directly impact your daily comfort. High levels of calcium and magnesium prevent soap from lathering effectively, leaving behind a film on your skin and hair. This leads to:
- Dry, itchy skin and aggravated eczema
- Dull, brittle hair and an itchy scalp
- Persistent soap scum residue on skin, tubs, and shower doors
- Challenges when preparing baby formula, as the high mineral content can be harsh.
Filtration Guide for Dover's 19.3 GPG Water
With water this hard, a simple pitcher filter will not be effective. A more robust solution is required to protect your home.
- Primary Recommendation: A whole-house, salt-based water softener is the most effective solution. It removes the hardness minerals entirely, protecting every pipe, fixture, and water-using appliance in your home.
- Drinking Water Solution: To get the best tasting water for drinking and cooking, pair a whole-house softener with an under-sink reverse osmosis (RO) system. This combination eliminates the need for bottled water, which costs the average family $600-$900 per year.
A whole-house softener (around $1,500 installed) pays for itself in about 7.2 years through annual savings of approximately $207 on energy, reduced detergent use, and longer appliance lifespan.