Get matched with top water softener pros in Lordsburg, NM

Hard water is not considered unhealthy and is safe to drink, cook with, and bathe in. It doesn't pose a risk to your physical health and can even help you get enough essential minerals like calcium in your diet. However, it can negatively affect skin and hair. Using hard water for washing can contribute to dry skin, an itchy scalp, and may worsen conditions like eczema by altering the pH balance. Additionally, some people do not like the taste of hard water.

You can use a commercial water repellent treatment for glass on your shower doors to prevent water spots. Take care to only apply the product to glass. Letting air circulate also helps prevent water spots, as water is less likely to remain on the glass for a long time with good air circulation. Run your vent fan, open a window, and leave the shower door open for about half an hour after using the shower.

You can decide whether you need a water softener or water filter based on how your bathing or laundry experience is. If you notice issues like limescale buildup, dry skin, or stains on dishes—all telltale signs of hard water—you'd likely benefit from a water softener. However, if your main concern is over chemicals or bacteria in your tap water filter, and not just comfort, a filter is a better option.

The chemicals in a water softener can wear down the anode rod in the heater and shorten its life span. However, for most people, the benefits of the softener outweigh this potential drawback.

Have a plumber inspect the anode rod annually for damage, as replacing the anode rod is far less expensive than replacing the entire water heater.