Effects on Your Skin, Hair, and Family
While municipally treated and safe to drink, very hard water takes a toll on your body. The high mineral content prevents soap and shampoo from lathering properly, leaving behind a residue that can lead to:
- Dry, itchy skin and aggravated eczema
- Dull, brittle hair and a flaky scalp
- Soap scum buildup on your shower doors and fixtures
For families, preparing baby formula with hard water can be a concern due to the high mineral concentration, though it is not considered a direct health hazard.
Filtration Guide for Very Hard Water (13.1 GPG)
For water as hard as Sheridan's, spot treatments like pitcher filters are ineffective. A whole-house solution is necessary to protect your investment in your home.
- Recommended: A whole-house, salt-based water softener is the most effective solution. This system removes the hardness minerals entirely. Paired with an under-sink Reverse Osmosis (RO) system, you get complete protection and purified drinking water.
- Alternative: A salt-free water conditioner is an option if you prefer a zero-salt system, but it only crystalizes minerals to prevent scale buildup; it does not 'soften' the water or provide the same benefits for skin and soap usage.
A whole-house softener (around $1,500 installed) is an investment that pays for itself. With annual savings of $140 on energy, detergents, and prolonged appliance life, the system pays for itself in approximately 10.7 years.