Water hardness is one of the most common and frequently searched parameters when it comes to water quality, both in homes and industries. It refers to the concentration of minerals, mainly calcium (Ca²⁺) and magnesium (Mg²⁺), present in the water. These minerals can cause various problems that affect everything from equipment efficiency to health and daily well-being.
How is water hardness measured?
Hardness is generally measured in mg/L of CaCO₃ (calcium carbonate) or in grains per gallon (gpg). Water can be classified as:
Soft water: less than 60 mg/L of CaCO₃
Moderately hard water: between 60 and 120 mg/L
Hard water: between 120 and 180 mg/L
Very hard water: more than 180 mg/L
Why is it important to control water hardness?
Protection of equipment and pipes
Hard water causes deposits of scale or mineral buildup that affect pipes, boilers, heaters, and cooling systems. These deposits reduce energy efficiency and can cause premature failures, increasing maintenance costs.
Efficiency in industrial and household processes
In industry, hardness can interfere with chemical and cleaning processes, increasing the consumption of detergents and chemicals. At home, hard water reduces the effectiveness of soaps and detergents, leaving residues on clothes, dishes, and surfaces.
Impact on health and water aesthetics
Although water hardness is usually not a direct health risk, it can affect the texture of skin and hair, causing dryness and irritation. It can also cause white or yellowish stains on sanitary fixtures and appliances.
How is water hardness treated?
The most common treatment is through water softeners or ion exchange systems, which replace calcium and magnesium with sodium or potassium, reducing hardness. Advanced technologies such as reverse osmosis also exist, which remove dissolved minerals and significantly improve water quality.
Conclusion
Understanding what water hardness is and how it affects your home or industry is essential to making informed decisions about proper treatment. Controlling hardness not only prolongs the lifespan of equipment but also improves efficiency, reduces costs, and contributes to better personal well-being.
American Water Solutions, LLC., is a family business based in Texas. We manufacture reverse osmosis water treatment systems for every application from domestic to industrial.
