How to Test Water Hardness At Home

Water hardness is a common concern for many homeowners, as it can affect everything from the taste of your tap water to the lifespan of your appliances. Hard water contains high levels of minerals like calcium and magnesium, which can lead to limescale buildup and interfere with soap’s ability to lather. Fortunately, testing for water hardness at home can be done with a few simple methods. You can utilize these methods and learn whether you can benefit from water treatment services in Chandler, AZ.

Method 1: The Soap Suds Test

One of the easiest ways to get a general sense of your water’s hardness is the soap suds test:

• Fill a clean, clear plastic bottle one-third full with water from your tap.
• Add a few drops of pure liquid soap and shake vigorously for about 30 seconds.
• Observe the results. If there’s a good lather and clear water, then the mineral content is within acceptable levels. If there are fewer suds and milky, cloudy water, you’ve likely got hard water and would need a water softener.

Method 2: Water Quality Report

Your local water utility provides an annual Water Quality Report, also known as a Consumer Confidence Report. This document lists various water quality parameters, including hardness levels. You can usually find this report on your water utility’s website. You can also contact a water purification system expert for professional assistance.

Method 3: Hard Water Test Strips

Hard water test strips are a convenient and inexpensive option available at most hardware stores. Simply dip the strip into a water sample and compare the resulting color change to the chart provided with the strips to determine water hardness. High water hardness levels can be addressed more efficiently by using both a water softener and a reverse osmosis system.

Method 4: Laboratory Testing

For the most accurate results, you can send a water sample to a laboratory for testing. This method will provide detailed information about your water’s hardness and other quality aspects so you know what type of water filtration system will work best.

Method 5: Liquid Test Kits

For a more precise measurement, consider using a liquid test kit. These kits involve adding drops of a solution to a water sample and observing the color change, which indicates the level of hardness.

Contact Gold Star Plumbing & Drain and let us help you improve your water’s quality.