Hard water is characterized by the amount of dissolved calcium and magnesium in it. More dissolved minerals in water make it hard, which can be corrosive, staining, and generally hard on skin and appliances.
Michigan water tends to be hard, which makes having a water softener more beneficial. Water softeners can remove some of the calcium and magnesium, which helps protect appliances and skin and is overall better tasting.
Does Michigan Have Hard Water?
Yes, Michigan does have hard water. On average, Michigan water is considered moderately hard, depending on where you live.
Water hardness is measured in grains per gallon (mpg), where one grain equals 0.002 ounces of calcium carbonate dissolved in one gallon of water. Anything over 7.5 gpg is considered hard water. In the Grand Rapids area, the water tests around 9 gpg.
Hard water can cause deposits in your plumbing system, which build up over time. This can lead to slow or low water pressure. Hard water can also affect your laundry, causing soap scum, and limescale buildup. Hard water also doesn’t taste as good as softened water, which can affect drinking water and cooking water.
Solution: A Whole-Home Water Softener by Service Professor
A whole-home water softener is the best solution to combat hard water. Through a process known as ion exchange, water softeners remove minerals like magnesium and calcium that make water “hard.” As hard water flows into the softener, resin beads coated with sodium ions attract and trap the calcium and magnesium ions, resulting in softened water.
This process prevents limescale buildup in pipes and appliances, extends the lifespan of fixtures, and improves the efficiency of soap and detergent usage, addressing the challenges posed by hard water in Michigan households.
At Service Professor, we have a time-tested method of assessing and installing water softeners in Grand Rapids homes. We’ll make sure your water softener will handle the volume of water you use and will improve your water quality.
Our installation is quick and efficient, so you don’t have to worry about us in your home all day. You’ll be amazed at the difference a water softener can make on your home and body.
How Water Softeners Work
As mentioned above, water softeners, or ion exchangers, remove calcium and magnesium from water. Resin beds inside the softener trap the calcium and magnesium and exchange them for sodium or potassium.
Some benefits of water softeners include:
- Improved lathering and soap efficiency
- Protection of plumbing and appliances
- Softer, smoother skin and better hair
- Requires less soap to get clean
- Better tasting water
Why Trust Service Professor?
Service Professor has licensed and insured plumbers ready to install your home’s water softener. After assessing your home, we’ll give you upfront pricing so you know exactly what you’re paying.
Once we install your water softener, we’ll ensure it works properly, and you’re completely satisfied. And if any repairs are needed, we’ll fix them in a snap!
Contact the Service Professor today to see the difference a water softener can make.