How Philadelphia's Water Affects Your Skin and Hair
Philadelphia's water is safe to consume, but its mineral content can be harsh on skin and hair. The dissolved calcium and magnesium react with soap to form a residue that doesn't rinse away completely. This soap scum can leave your skin feeling dry and itchy and make your hair appear dull and brittle. For families with infants, the added mineral content in the water can slightly alter the taste and composition of prepared baby formula.
The Right Filter Strategy for Philadelphia
For moderately hard water at 6.1 GPG, investing in a whole-house water softener is rarely economical. The estimated annual savings of $63 is too low to justify the ~$1,500 cost, leading to a payback period of nearly 24 years. A more sensible approach for Philadelphia residents involves targeted solutions:
- For Drinking Water: A quality pitcher filter (like Brita or PUR) or an attachable faucet filter is sufficient to improve taste and remove chlorine.
- For Showers: If you experience dry skin or brittle hair, installing a dedicated showerhead filter can provide significant relief for a minimal investment.
These point-of-use filters provide the most practical benefits without the high cost and maintenance of a whole-home system.