If it’s not treated, hard water can do a number on your pipes and appliances. That’s because without removing hard minerals like calcium and magnesium, mineral buildup can occur, clogging your pipes and causing your appliances to break more often.
The costs associated with repairs and replacements due to hard water are significant. Investing in a home water softener can save you money, time and energy. Knowing a little bit about hard water and how to remove it can help you decide which products and solutions are best for your household’s demands.
What is hard water?
The term ‘hard water’ is used to describe a fresh water supply that contains a high amount of minerals, usually calcium and magnesium. It tends to leave a white, chalk-like stain on faucets which is a sign that you do not currently have soft water, but rather hard water. You may notice other things like dry skin, mineral buildup on shower walls or surfaces, dull clothes, stains on dishware and much more.
Is hard water dangerous?
Hard water is not dangerous to our health, but it can be problematic for other reasons. Some of the most common issues that hard water creates include:
It reacts with cleaning products and creates a soap buildup and can wear down fixtures and appliances more quickly.
Mineral buildup inside water heaters causes them to use more energy, thus costing you more money.
Minerals react with soap to create soap scum, not suds, and can leave that film all over surfaces.
Hard water can exacerbate skin issues like dry skin, psoriasis or eczema.
Buildup of minerals on glasses and dishes, clothing and other fixtures can take their toll over time for sure. They can also cause embarrassment!
Hard water shortens the life of water heaters and other water-using appliances.
How does hard water affect plumbing?
We often see customers concerned about their water heaters and their plumbing fixtures most. Why? The cost associated with repairing plumbing or replacing pipes or appliances is high. As we mentioned before, hard water contains minerals which will start to build up inside pipes, fixtures, drains or appliances over time. We don’t usually see it or notice it right away, until something is wrong.
When hard water is heated, a certain amount of water evaporates, causing the minerals suspended in it to precipitate. This solidified scale (a.k.a. limescale buildup) can then accumulate inside your pipes, water heater, washing machine and dishwasher. This is what we want to avoid!
Be on the lookout for:
Reduced water flow in tubs, sinks, etc.
Clogs
Low water pressure
Increased stress on pipes and fixtures
High energy bills due to water heater operational costs
Appliances requiring repairs or replacements
How can you prevent hard water from damaging plumbing?
First, we can test your water for mineral content and see just what you may need. Then, we’ll recommend the best water treatment product for your specific household needs. Our water softeners will remove hard minerals through the ion exchange process or you can get soft water delivered right to your home with our soft water delivery service. The end result is that these minerals are effectively removed from the water before it reaches your appliances and faucets. Ultimately, using softened water can help you avoid repairing appliances, water heaters or pipes and improve the efficiency and lifespan of your water-using appliances.
At Pacific Coast Water Systems of Fullerton, our water treatment experts can help you choose the right product for your household. What you need will depend on the hardness levels of your tap water, the size of your family, the amount of water you use each day and so on. We look forward to helping you protect the condition of your plumbing and avoid the damages that hard water can do. Plus, more aspects of your household will benefit, too, of course!
Staying hydrated has a major impact on your quality of life. But, as you get your daily water in, make sure it is free of contaminants. And, we don’t mean by drinking bottled water. That can become very expensive to your wallet and the environment. Get clean contaminant-free water straight from your faucet with a Reverse Osmosis (RO) system!
Reverse Osmosis uses pressure to push water through a specialized membrane to filter contaminants from your water. It is a point-of-use filter, meaning it is placed under your sink and is used for one faucet.
4 Key Benefits of a Reverse Osmosis System
There are many benefits of a Reverse Osmosis system being installed in your home.
Save Money– Investing in an RO system means you won’t have to buy bottled water. Reverse Osmosis produces clean filtered water for pennies per gallon.
Contaminant-Free Water– You can now have peace of mind that your family is drinking safe, clean water. Water free of lead, pesticides, fluoride, pharmaceuticals, arsenic and more!
Simple Maintenance– Compared to some water filtration systems, an RO system is quite easy to maintain. Simply change out the filters and membranes. Depending on your water quality to begin with, filters are replaced every 6 – 12 months and the membrane replaced every two years.
Better Taste– Many families find that after installing an RO system, their family tends to consume more water and less sugary drinks. That is a great health benefit!
Costs of an RO System
Reverse Osmosis water filtration systems vary in price according to the model you choose. Pacific Coast Water Systems of Fullerton offers smaller residential systems that produce 36 gallons up to 100 gallons per day and larger commercial RO systems that can produce up to 35,000 gallons per day! Your other expense would be the cost of filter replacements. Again, that depends on the size of your system.
Before deciding on a water filtration system, be sure to contact us to get a free water test. We will work with you to determine which drinking water system is right for you and your family. It’s time to enjoy all the benefits of a Reverse Osmosis system and invest in your drinking water quality!
As the holidays approach, life gets hectic. We know. And, as life gets busy, we may forget how important it is to stay hydrated. Dehydration is damaging to your overall health and mental focus … not a good combination for any time but especially the holidays!
Why Should You Drink More Water During the Holidays?
Let’s take a look at 5 reasons why you should stay hydrated and drink more water during the holidays.
Beat Exhaustion- The holidays are exhausting. Organizing events, making large meals, and getting presents together can take a toll on our body, physically and mentally. One of the best things you can do to recharge your body is drink a glass of water. Health professionals suggest 8 glasses a day in order to be more alert and rest better.
Healthy Skin- What does every family do when they get together? Take photos! Staying hydrated is one of the best ways to ensure you will look your best. Water hydrates your skin cells which makes your skin look tauter and less dry.
Knock Hangovers- Did you know drinking alcohol actually dehydrates you? Don’t get caught in a holiday hangover … try drinking a glass of water with each alcoholic drink you consume.
Skip the Holiday Sniffles- When you’re hydrated, your mucus membranes function better and actually block little germs from getting into your nose and throat. How cool is that? So, listen to your doctor when he or she says to drink plenty of fluids!
Hunger Control- We tend to gorge ourselves during the holidays. If you are concerned about gaining a few extra pounds this holiday season, try drinking more water. Water helps to delay the feeling of hunger and helps give our metabolism a boost!
Great Tasting Water At Your Fingertips Every Day
The best way to feel healthier and energized during the holidays is to stay hydrated. One way to energize is with a water cooler. At Pacific Coast Water Systems of Fullerton, we offer residential and commercial water coolers … the perfect way to get hot and cold drinking water at the touch of your finger.
We also offer reverse osmosis drinking water systems. There has never been a more convenient, cost-effective way to get safe, great tasting water. Invest in your own drinking water now … contact us today!
Do you have hard water? The majority of homes in the US do! Hard water can cause all sorts of problems for you and your home. You may have thought installing a water softener was the only way to get soft water, but we have one more solution … soft water delivery right to your door!
Hard Water Solutions
Water that comes from your tap is full of minerals and contaminants. These minerals are the reason behind those water spots on your dishes, buildup around your faucets, stiff and dull laundry, itchy skin and more! Here are some solutions for dealing with hard water in your home:
Water Softener- One solution for treating hard water is to install a water softener. A water softener uses an ion exchange process to remove hard minerals like magnesium and calcium. Investing in a water softener can actually save you money in the long run. That’s because it can help you save on energy costs, use less detergent, cleaning products and bath products, and extend the life of your plumbing and appliances.
Soft Water Exchange Service- Another solution that Pacific Coast Water Systems of Fullerton offers is a soft water exchange service. Who would want a soft water delivery right to their door? It might be you if you think this sounds good …
All the benefits of soft water without purchasing a system.
You don’t have to remember to replace the salt in your softener.
No need to maintain or repair a soft water system!
Tailored to fit your needs based on your water usage patterns.
Also treats for chlorine for better smelling and tasting water.
Great for residential OR for businesses that need to meet water treatment requirements.
Low up-front cost.
Ready for Soft Water Delivery Service?
If these benefits sound great, then maybe our soft water delivery is right for you! If you are concerned about hard water, the first step is to contact us today for a free, no obligation, in-home water analysis.
If you are interested in a water softener or our soft water delivery service, you have come to the right place! One of Pacific Coast Water Systems of Fullerton’s knowledgeable technicians can help you choose what is best for you and your household. Our water treatment products are innovative and on the cutting edge of technology. We are committed to our customers and our products, and we cannot wait to share them with you, too!
If you already have a water softener, then we don’t have to tell you about all the benefits. You already know how much better soft water is on your skin, your hair, and your home. You also may have noticed that you actually save money by having a water softener!
If you have had a softener for a while, however, you may be wondering when it will need to be replaced. A good soft water system should last 10 to 15 years. Here are a few signs to look for that may indicate it’s time to replace your water softener.
Signs You Need to Replace Your Water Softener
Water Taste- If you start to notice that your water tastes different, it may indicate that your water softener isn’t filtering out minerals as it should.
Hard Water Spots- Water spots are a sign that you have hard water. Getting rid of scale buildup is one of the benefits of having a water softener. So, if you notice spots on your shower doors or drinking glasses after they have been dried, your water softener is not up for the job.
Laundry- You may remember how hard water made your clothes feel … stiff and dull. You may have thought it was your detergent, but your water softener took care of that! So, if your clothes start to feel stiff and dull again, it could be that it’s time to replace your water softener.
Soap– Pay attention to how your soap lathers. If it isn’t lathering as quickly or if the water feels less soft on your skin, this is an indicator of hard water.
Salt Use-Water softeners use salt or potassium during the softening process. If you notice your softener stops using salt, that is a clear indication that your unit is not working. If your system uses more salt, it may be a good idea to replace your water softener with a more efficient model.
Why You Should Upgrade Your Water Softener
So, maybe you have noticed some of the signs that you need to replace your water softener. If you need another reason to upgrade, we have several!
Newer water softeners have higher efficiency ratings, helping you save water.
The latest water softener models also save you money. The more efficient water softeners use less energy, less water, and you will use less soaps, shampoo, laundry detergent and more!
Newer water softeners will also have better quality.
If it’s time to upgrade and you are looking for a water softener that will be more efficient, effective, and a better overall investment, then you’ve come to the right place. Pacific Coast Water Systems of Fullerton offers a variety of water softener options that we can discuss once we evaluate your home’s water quality and household water demands. You’ll always get more than what you pay for with our water treatment products! When you find yourself face-to-face with water softener maintenance, installation or emergency repairs, you can call us and our technicians will be there to help! Simply contact us today!
August is National Water Quality Month. So, we at Pacific Coast Water Systems of Fullerton think it is a great time to go over what can contaminate our water and how to protect ourselves from contaminants. Not everyone in the world has fresh, clean, quality water piped right to their house. In fact, not all water piped into your house can be considered quality!
Water Contamination
All water contains contaminants, natural or artificial. The EPA estimated there are over 60,000 chemicals being used within the USA that could find their way into our water. But, only 91 contaminants are regulated. So, while tap water is said to be safe to drink, it may not be the quality water that is best for your home and family. Have you read your entire water quality report?
Nitrates- Nitrates are found in fertilizers, manure and waste from septic tanks. It is the most common type of contaminant that finds its way into our fresh water. Nitrates are regulated by your municipality before it enters your home. If you have well water, it should be tested for nitrates every other year. It can be especially dangerous for infants and young children.
Microorganisms, bacteria, and viruses- All water has some degree of bacteria. Most are harmless, but some can cause quite a lot of health issues! City water is treated with chlorine intended to kill microorganisms, bacteria and viruses.
Aluminum– Aluminum is the third most common element in the earth’s soil, so it easily finds its way into our water. Dementia has been linked to high traces of aluminum in drinking water.
Fluoride– Fluoride is a natural mineral added to our water, but recent studies have shown it may be doing more harm than good. High levels of fluoride may actually cause weakening in the skeletal system.
Arsenic– Arsenic is a natural metallic substance that can find its way into your drinking water. Studies have shown that the compound can produce a variety of health effects.
What You Can Do to Improve Water Quality
While these top contaminants are regulated by your water municipality, it does not hurt to have your water tested for these and other contaminants. Pacific Coast Water Systems of Fullerton can test your water and work with you to determine which of our eco-friendly and innovative drinking water products is right for you. Reverse Osmosis drinking water systems are extremely effective at removing contaminants at the tap.
Whether you’re looking for a Reverse Osmosis system or even a water softener, we can guarantee that our products will reduce common water contaminants and improve the quality of your water! So, stop worrying about your water quality and contact us today!
Investing in a water softener for your home is an excellent choice. It makes chores easier, gives you more free time, and saves on energy. Plus, you’ll see quite impressive financial savings over time.
But, none of these benefits will happen if your home water softener isn’t working properly and efficiently. Without preventative maintenance and routine inspections, your system will lack some of the effectiveness you had hoped for in the first place.
What are your favorite soft water benefits?
That’s a tough question – we know, because we love them all, too!
From no more spots and stains on glassware, to fewer clogs and repairs for water-using appliances, soft water eases your everyday needs. Most water professionals – including US – will offer preventative maintenance and routine servicing of your water softening system. This will help protect your investment and maintain better water quality.
Do I need preventative maintenance with a new water softener?
Yes, you do! Even new water softeners can benefit from routine maintenance. Things like power outages and daylight savings time can affect the regeneration process of your unit. There could also be issues with other water-using appliances in your home like well pumps or water heaters, and these can also impact the functionality of your home water softener.
I have a well. Does this apply to me?
Definitely. For private well owners, water softener performance is essential for water quality. But, this means that you also need a healthy well. Issues with your well can create problems for your softener. This can lead to the need for repair or replacement for BOTH the pressure tank (or other part) and the water softener itself. Either one could be costly.
Regular inspections and maintenance on ALL water treatment products and equipment is vital. Neglected units of all kinds can lead to big bills and poor water quality. For many, the issue is that they are out of sight, so out of mind. And, they’re only given attention when a problem actually occurs and repairs are necessary.
What do preventative maintenance plans or services look like?
They vary, of course, and ours can be customized to your specific water needs and product. In general, however, you should look for things like:
Water tests to see if your water softener is working properly
Proper salt delivery and schedule
Review your current water conditions
Check common wear and tear parts like pistons, injectors, screens and seals
Clean the equipment
Change filters and/or pre-filters
Clean the brine tank
And more!
If you could use some peace of mind that your home water softener is working properly and efficiently, give us a call and schedule an appointment. Preventative maintenance is so important – we’re happy to help!
Consider yourself lucky if you have never experienced smelly water. Water is essential to everyday life and a foul odor to our tap water can be alarming. We can help you identify common water smells and offer solutions!
Determine the Source of the Odor
First, you need to try to determine where the water smell is coming from. Does the odor occur in all your faucets or just one? If it’s just one, the odor is being caused by something in the fixture.
Does the odor go away after the water runs for a few minutes? If so, the odor is likely caused by something in your plumbing system, not the water source itself.
Common Water Smells
There are several water smells, and we will look at the most common odors and how to test your water.
Sewage/Rotten Egg Smell- A rotten egg or sewage smell in your water is likely caused by either bacteria growing in your drain or water heater, or sulfur in your water supply.
Solution- Check your water by filling a glass from your tap and let it sit for a few minutes. If the problem is bacteria in the drain, the water should not have an odor. Disinfect the drain by pouring half a cup of baking soda down the drain and then pour half a cup of vinegar. Wait 15 minutes and then pour in hot tap water. You can also turn up the temperature in your water heater for 24 hours and run frequently through your faucets to kill any bacteria in your plumbing.
Musty Smell- If your water has a musty, almost moldy smell, it could be from erosion in your water pipes. Erosion can be caused by hard water.
Solution- The best solution is to install a water softener. Water softener systems remove hard minerals like magnesium and calcium that are found in water.
Bleach Smell- High levels of chlorine in your drinking water is usually not harmful, but nobody wants the water they drink to smell like a swimming pool. Public water suppliers chlorinate water to prevent bacteria growth.
Solution- You may be able to get rid of the chlorine smell by running the water faucet for a few minutes. We also offer a Reverse Osmosis System which eliminates harmful contaminants and provides great tasting (and smelling) drinking water!
Metal Smell- The most common reason for metallic water smells is older metal pipes slowly deteriorating into your water. Generally, traces of metal are not harmful. But there is a possibility of lead pipes in homes built before 1986.
Solution- You can request a water test from your water treatment center if you suspect lead. Lead is harmful and should be taken care of immediately. If no lead is present, we suggest a Reverse Osmosis water filtration system for great tasting and smelling water.
Say Goodbye to Water Smells and Hello to High Quality Water
Whatever the source of your water smell may be, Pacific Coast Water Systems of Fullerton can help! We can test your water and work with you to determine which of our eco-friendly and innovative drinking water products is right for you.
So, stop worrying about your water and contact us! Whether you’re looking for a Reverse Osmosis system or a water softener, we can guarantee that our products will reduce common water contaminants and improve the quality of your water.
Identifying and knowing how to avoid the most common drinking water contaminants in your tap water is important as a homeowner. We have worked with thousands of people to help them improve their drinking water quality and protect their family from consuming contaminants in the water that they have or potentially could face down the road.
Your drinking water is of the utmost importance. But, when was the last time you sat down and read your entire water quality report? The last time you truly educated yourself and your family on the water in your home and in your area? Do you have concerns?
The point of this blog is not to create any panic. Instead, we want to create awareness of drinking water quality and help educate homeowners on common water contaminants that could pose a risk. Awareness ignites change and change in this case is for the better. High quality drinking water is always better than the alternatives and outcomes.
What are we hearing in the news?
Homeowners right now may hear about water contaminants like arsenic, nitrates, lead, PFAs, fluoride and even pharmaceuticals in public drinking water, as well as nitrates and bacteria in private wells. We know that state and federal laws like the Safe Drinking Water Act are meant to help protect our drinking water. But, there are still situations where contaminants show up. Laws do not guarantee that standards are followed or enforced, or that public water treatment never fails.
How are contaminants categorized?
Drinking water contaminants are often broken down by the following categories: primary, secondary and emerging.
Primary water contaminants include (but are not limited to):
Microorganisms like coliform bacteria (i.e. E.coli), cryptosporidium, giardia, legionella, and enteric viruses which can be treated with chlorination and UV treatment.
Inorganic compounds like arsenic, chromium, copper, chlorine, chloramine, fluoride, lead, mercury, nitrates, and nitrites, treated well with a reverse osmosis drinking water system. It is important to point out that inorganic compounds which could pose a health risk can be difficult to identify – they are often colorless, odorless and tasteless. Homes with private wells MUST have their water tested annually. And, residents on a public system should check their water quality report annually as well.
Organic compounds like agricultural chemicals, pesticides, and industrial chemicals which are commonly treated with activated carbon and reverse osmosis.
Secondary water contaminants include (but are not limited to):
Aluminum, iron, manganese, sulfur, calcium, magnesium – treated with water softeners and other water treatment systems right in your home.
Emerging water contaminants include (but are not limited to):
Manganese, pharmaceuticals, personal care products, PFAs and PFOAs
What do we do for now?
In the United States, we are fortunate to have decent drinking water in many areas. However, many could also use some improvement. Many of the drinking water contaminants listed above do not occur all at once or maybe even ever. But, they do pose potential health risks. Some can cause widespread and serious illnesses. Others can cause cancer or other serious illness with prolonged exposure.
Whether your contaminants are happening due to failed water treatment, or from human and animal waste into groundwater sources, increasing water treatment right in your home can help eliminate the health and quality risks right away. Experts say that microorganisms and chemical compounds in the environment can and will for the immediate future, contaminate drinking water supplies. Infants, children, the elderly, and immune-compromised people are particularly susceptible to serious health effects from contaminants in drinking water.
Contact one of our experts to discuss your concerns, your goals and your water needs. Whether you’re looking for a RO system or even a water softener, we can guarantee that our products will reduce the risk (or the presence) of common water contaminants and improve the overall quality of your drinking water. We can test your water and work WITH you to determine which of our eco-friendly and innovative drinking water products is right for you. Invest in your own drinking water now, before any other unknown exposure occurs or before any public health issue arises.
National Groundwater Awareness Week 2021 is from March 7-13 and is all about being a voice for groundwater. Communities around the nation need to speak up for this precious resource. There is no better time than today to learn and share the important role that groundwater plays in our lives! This year, it is the hope of advocates to share tips for groundwater safety, groundwater protection and increasing access across the country.
Advocacy Starts with Educating People
How exactly can we educate the people in our lives about groundwater and the role it plays? How do we teach others about the importance of proper groundwater management? And, how can we remind our neighbors that it is critical to test the water frequently in private water systems and wells? It starts with YOU!
When you learn about the role of groundwater, its significance and the dangers and risks of it disappearing, you can share what you know with others and be a role model in your daily habits. You can be a voice for groundwater itself and that is the theme of National Groundwater Awareness Week 2021!
The Roles of Groundwater in Our Daily Lives
The National Groundwater Association has compiled some great facts and figures that make it easier to picture just how important groundwater is in our daily lives. Here are some that may surprise you:
In addition, the EPA points out that ten percent of homes have leaks that waste 90 gallons or more per day … that’s a lot of water wasted down the drain!
The U.S. Geological Survey estimates that the U.S. uses 82.3 billion gallons per day of fresh groundwater. And, it’s used for lots of different purposes, like irrigation, agricultural operations, manufacturing, mining, thermoelectric power, and more.
Private Wells and Water Testing
Regular water testing for those residents with private wells is so important. A properly functioning and well-maintained household-supply well will provide you with many years of quality service. When you have your well routinely inspected and tested, you will ensure that it is operating as it should. This can also prolong its life and protect your health by discovering any potential water quality problems that could present a health risk.
Habits and Routines to Protect Our Groundwater – Everyone Can Do Something!
Here are some helpful tips from the National Groundwater Association that describe things we ALL can do to help preserve groundwater Every bit counts!
Use native plants when you landscape that won’t need much water or fertilizer.
Use fewer chemicals in your home and yard. When you do, proper disposal is a must.
Manage waste properly when it comes to toxic substances.
Turn off the water when brushing or shaving.
Repair any leaks or drips inside your home and outside fixtures.
Water your lawn during the coolest times of day.
Take quicker showers. Have a household competition to see who can shower quickest!
Reduce, Reuse, Recycle!
Use natural alternatives to cleaning products.
Be a role model, get informed, share, advocate and keep promoting these habits!
If you have any questions or concerns about water quality or need assistance with water testing, call our water treatment professionals today. We can work together to promote safe, clean drinking water and better habits to preserve our groundwater!
Welcome to Water in California - Your Resource For Drinking Water, Water Softener, and Water Filtration Information in California
Water in California is an educational service provided by Pacific Coast Water Systems to help consumers stay informed about the water they use in their homes. It includes the latest water news and information as well as links to current water events.
