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 Do you know how much money hard water is costing you?

Hard water is a fact in 85% of American homes according to the U.S. Geological Survey. Arizona State has some of the highest levels of hard water in the nation. This can get really expensive when you think about how much you're really spending to combat the problem.

Cleaning and Personal Care Supplies
 
In a recent Consumer Survey it was determined that 17¢ to 20¢ of each dollar spent at the grocery store is for cleaning, laundry, bathing and personal care products. This can represent over $100 per month for an average family of four. Many of these products are purchased to fight the effects of hard water.

The average person cleaning the home spends more than 6 hours a month cleaning water spots, streak and scum alone.
 
- Ohio State University
 
 
Laundry
 
Water hardness definitely makes cleaning more of a chore. Who has time for that?!? Hardness causing minerals react with soap to form an insoluble curd-like substance that can show up on fabrics as a white powder, make fabrics feel stiff and attach to the inside of washing machines. It also reduces the cleaning ability of those expensive cleansers that you're using.

The life of clothing and textiles was prolonged up to 15% when washed in conditioned water.
 
- Based on a study by the School of Civil Engineering and the School of Consumer and Family Sciences, Purdue University.
 
Dishwashing
 
Filming and spotting are the most common aggravations that hard water can cause on dishes and glassware. Most all dishwashing detergents contain water softeners such as phosphates to reduce this condition. The manufacturers of the detergents advise you that the harder the water the more soap you will need to use to get satisfactory results.

The amount of detergent should be increased according to the hardness (one teaspoon per grain).
 
- Maytag Answer Book
 
Water Heater
 
In a study conducted by New Mexico State University's Water Quality Research Council, they found that water heaters consume 22% to 29% more energy when operated on hard water. The heating of the water in your home consumes an average of 30% of your energy expense.

As little as 1/8" of scale in a water heater adds 20% to the fuel costs. - According to tests conducted by the US Bureau of Standards

Hard Savings on Soft Water
After adding up all the savings that a water conditioner can generate, many consumers conclude they can't afford to be without soft treated water in their homes. Soft treated water can make a real difference where it counts most - in your pocketbook.
 
Consider how soft treated water could start saving you money today:

  • Lower energy costs - According to the Water Quality Research Council at New Mexico State University, water heaters work nearly 30% more efficiently when operated on soft treated water.
  • Fewer repair bills - Without exception, all water-using appliances work more efficiently and require fewer repairs with soft treated water. Even leading appliance manufacturers, such as Maytag, recommend using soft treated water for optimum performance of their products. Plumbing lasts longer, too, without the lime scale buildup caused by hard water.
  • Spend less money for cleaners and detergents - Since soaps and detergents work more efficiently in soft treated water, you'll only need one-fourth to one-half of the recommended amount. And you'll be able to obtain the same optimum results using shorter wash cycles and cooler water.
  • Smaller clothing allowance - Clothes last longer and look better when washed with soft treated water. According to a study conducted at Purdue University, the life of clothing and household textiles was prolonged up to 15% when washed in conditioned water. When detergents mix with hard water, they form lime curd deposits, which can cause yellowing, or graying of clothes. As the deposits accumulate, they contribute to fabric stiffening and matting.
  • Fewer lotions and conditioners - Hard water can dry skin and hair because the minerals combine with the soap to form a sticky residue that's difficult to rinse away. With soft treated water this film doesn't form, so hair and skin are smoother and healthier looking.