Clean Water

Water Hardness
According to the U.S. Geologic Survey, 85% of the United States has hard water. Hard water is caused by excessive levels of calcium and/or magnesium. Earlier generations coined the phrase “hard water” because it made cleaning difficult.

The U.S. Department of the Interior classifies hardness based on the concentration of grains per gallon (gpg) of calcium and/or magnesium. To put this in perspective, a typical aspirin equals about five grains of material. If the aspirin were dissolved in a gallon of water it would add 5 gpg of “aspirin” to the water.

The government classifies water as follows:

  • Soft (less than 1.0 gpg of calcium and/or magnesium)
  • Slightly hard (1-3.5 gpg)
  • Moderately hard (3.5-7.0 gpg)
  • Hard (7.0-10.5 gpg)
  • Very hard (greater than 10.5 gpg)

While hard water is not unhealthy, it does cause other problems:

Laundering

  • Soap curd (sticky film formed when soap is used in hard water) influences fabric life and fading.
  • Fabrics washed in hard water tend to wear out up to 15% quicker than those washed in soft water.
  • Colors also fade and whites darken more quickly when cleaned with hard water.
  • In addition, laundry washed in hard water is more easily re-soiled.

Note: According to a 1991 Purdue Study

Hard Water Scale

  • The minerals in hard water gradually settle, forming a hard scale surface.
  • This scale eventually will clog pipes and can decrease the lift of toilet flushing units by 70% and water faucets by 40%.
  • Hardness scale shortens the life of washing equipment, dishwashers, and clothes washers by as much as 30%.

Note: According to a report published by the American Water Works Association (AWWA).

Water Heater Efficiency

  • Hardness scale tends to form on the heating elements and heat transfer surfaces in water heaters.
  • Scale build-up can reduce a gas water heater’s efficiency by as much as 29%, and an electric water heater’s efficiency by as much as 21%.
  • A study conducted, found that a water heater’s useful life can be reduced by as much as 50% through scale build-up.

Note: According to studies conducted by New Mexico State University and The Office of Saline Water, U.S. Department of the Interior.

Cleaning Tasks

  • Soap curd makes cleaning and washing less effective and efficient.
  • Greater physical effort and more cleaning agents are needed for surfaces such as floors, sinks, and bathtubs.
  • The time required for typical cleaning tasks can be increased by almost 50% with hard water.

Note: According to a comparison study of hard and softened water sources for household use conducted by Ohio State University

Bathing
Soap curd film on the body can leave skin dry and hair dull and limp.

Streaks and Spotting
Soap curd formation can result in streaks, spots, and film on glass and dishware.

Testimonials

I recently had an install done by Alex & Kwesi and they were wonderful and left my home immaculate. They brought everything they needed to do difficult work because it was in a crawl space. Everyone on the phone is always so courteous, and appointments are always kept. Dave is also very helpful.

Portasoft Customer

Mike is such a wonderful, nice and helpful young man. I wish Mike could come to my house all the time, including for salt deliveries.

Portasoft Customer

Mike was at my home today and I wanted to call to make sure that he got recognized for superior service. He is an excellent tech, knowledgeable and thorough – he deserves an honorable mention!

Portasoft Customer

Tyler was at my home today and did an outstanding job. His demeanor and servitude stood out. He has a ton dedication and enthusiasm. I will be a Portasoft customer forever.

Portasoft Customer

Alex did an install at my home today. He has so nice, a delight to have in my home!

Portasoft Customer

“Paul was just at our home for salt delivery. He was very good and organized. I am very happy with the service. Thank you!”

Portasoft Customer