Effects on Skin, Hair, and Comfort
While hard water is safe to drink, its high mineral content can diminish your quality of life. The minerals react with soap to form a scum that doesn't rinse away easily, leading to common complaints such as:
- Dry, flaky skin and irritation of conditions like eczema.
- Limp, brittle hair that is hard to style.
- Soap scum buildup on shower doors, tubs, and sinks.
For parents, using very hard water to mix baby formula is also a consideration due to the high concentration of minerals being introduced.
Which Water Filter is Right for Newport?
Given the 13.1 GPG hardness level, simple pitcher filters won't solve the core problem. A whole-home solution is necessary to protect your investment in your property.
- Recommended System: A salt-based whole-house water softener is the best choice. It removes the hardness minerals before they enter your pipes. Pair it with an under-sink reverse osmosis (RO) system for superior drinking water.
- Salt-Free Alternative: If you prefer to avoid salt, a salt-free water conditioner will prevent scale from sticking to surfaces, protecting your heater and pipes, but it won't provide the other benefits of soft water (like better lathering).
The economics are compelling. An installed water softener (approx. $1,500) will pay for itself in 10.7 years by saving you an estimated $140 annually on energy waste, excess detergent, and premature appliance replacement. An RO system also eliminates the need for bottled water, a $600-$900 yearly expense for many families.