Hardness

Hardness is caused by minerals, primarily calcium and magnesium, which are picked up by water passing through underground mineral deposits. Hard water is not considered contaminated, but it does retard the cleaning action of soap and forms a scale on cooking utensils, hot water pipes and heaters. This build-up may eventually reduce pipe capacity and water pressure. Hardness is the total concentration of calcium and magnesium in water. Water with under 75 milligrams per liter of calcium carbonate is soft; water with over 200 milligrams per liter is hard.

Drinking Water Standards and Health Risks

There is no standard for hardness. Hard water is not harmful to health. Calcium and magnesium are essential body elements. In fact, studies suggest that hard water is better for cardiovascular health than soft water, though the reasons for this are not yet known.

Correcting the Problem

Water softeners are available from water treatment specialists. In the process of removing minerals, sodium is added to the water and may be unsuitable for a person on a low-sodium diet. See the yellow pages under "Water Treatment" for the name of a specialist in your area.

 

IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS OR NEED ADVICE ON HOW TO CORRECT THE PROBLEM, CONTACT THE HEALTH AND ENVIRONMENTAL TESTING LABORATORY AT 207-287-1716.