“Can you have hard water in New York City? My aunt said that’s why there’s white spots on the bathroom faucet. Is she right? How do I know if I have hard water?”
Let’s begin by defining hard water. Almost all water has some mineral deposits dissolved in it. Hard water has a high amount of minerals, mostly calcium and magnesium. Soft water has fewer mineral deposits. The mineral deposits come from the ground where the water resides before it is collected and used for human purposes. It’s a natural process that varies by location.
New York City gets its water from the Catskills and Croton aqueducts. This involves a blend of soft to slightly hard waters (the Catskills) and moderately hard water (Croton) As a result, it is possible to have hard water in New York City.
What are the Signs of Hard Water
As a NYC plumber, we tell people these are the most common signs of hard water: Dry, itchy skin; spots on glassware & dishes; rough clothes; buildup in shower; clogged showerheads & faucets, and more.
Is hard water unhealthy? There are no serious long-term effects reported from drinking hard water. However, bathing with hard water can contribute to skin irritation, including an itchy scalp.
What Can Be Done About Hard Water
If you have hard water in your home, talk to your local licensed master plumber about a solution. Depending on the scope and severity of the issue, you may need showerhead filters, water softener, or a whole house water filtration system. Addressing a hard water issue in the home can result in a better bathing experience for all family members. Additionally, your clothing will feel better and last longer when washed in softer water. It’s also nice to have your dishes free from embarrassing spots and residue.
