Do You Need a Water Filter at Home? Here’s How to Know

Many people assume that their tap water is clean and healthy. However, even water that looks and tastes fine can contain impurities. Some of these impurities are harmless, but some can be toxic to humans or can damage fixtures and appliances.

Many factors play into what kind of filtration system you need. For example, if your water is fairly pure and there are only a few places where humans consume water, an under-sink carbon filter will suffice. But if toxins or a high level of minerals are in your water, you may need a filtration system to treat water throughout the house.

There are some signs that can indicate that your water may need to be filtered. Keep reading to learn signs that your home may benefit from a water filtration system.

Your Water Tastes Bad

Your local water treatment center typically does a good job of removing toxins from tap water. And although the water doesn’t contain hazardous toxins and chemicals, it may not actually taste good. The most common reason people invest in a water filter is to make their water taste better.

Or Maybe it Smells Bad

Does your water smell like rotten eggs? That smell means there is sulfur in your water. While sulfur is low in toxicity to people, the continued consumption of sulfur can irritate your eyes and skin, irritate your airways which can lead to coughing and can cause diarrhea.

Or Looks Bad

Another sign that your water is contaminated is if it looks white and cloudy. Not only will it look unappetizing, but it will also taste bad. And the chemicals in cloudy water will also seep into the foods you cook in it, which can change the taste of the food, and further contaminate those eating it.

Problems With Appliances

The chemicals in hard water can not only affect your health but also damage your appliances and plumbing. As water continues to run through them, the damage increases.

As a result, you will notice that appliances such as your washing machine and dishwasher will become less effective. And smaller appliances like a coffee maker may break down sooner than expected.

You Have Well Water

The water you get through a public water system has been tested per EPA regulations and other standards that your city may initiate. However, if you get your water from a private well, you should test your water annually to check the pH levels, bacteria, nitrate, and contaminants. Regularly testing your well water is especially important if you live near industrial or agricultural operations, landfills, and gas stations where runoff can contaminate the water.

Your Clothes Don’t Seem Clean After Washing

Are you having problems getting your laundry clean? If your laundry detergent doesn’t seem to be working and you have hard water, you can blame it on your water! Hard water can prohibit the detergent from lathering as it should. This results in soap scum which can cause your clothes to look dingy and not feel clean.

Dry Hair and Skin

If your water contains large amounts of magnesium and calcium, those minerals can mix with your hair products to form a type of salt. That salt will leave a residue blocking your scalp and hair follicles from absorbing moisture. This will result in dry hair that tangles and breaks easily.

The same is true for your skin. The minerals can cause soap residue to build up on your skin and clog your pores, which can lead to acne and eczema. Hard water also strips your skin of moisture, resulting in dry skin.

Soap Scum

The crusty, white substance that builds up on your kitchen and bathroom fixtures is known as soap scum or limescale. It can be difficult to remove soap scum, and the more it accumulates, the harder it is to remove. Many people also don’t realize that bacteria can grow in soap scum.

You Live in an Older Home

Homes built prior to 1986 are likely to contain lead pipes, soldering, and faucets. If your water has a high acidity level or a low mineral content, it can corrode the lead causing it to leach into your water.

The amount of lead that ends up in your water depends on the water’s temperature, how much water is in the pipes, and how long the water is in the pipes. However, even at low levels, lead can cause health problems.

Get the Best Water Possible With Independent Water Services, Inc. 

Not only does filtered water taste better, but it can also help protect your family against toxins, chemicals, and minerals that may unknowingly be in your water. Your family deserves the best, so if you notice any of the scenarios mentioned above, don’t wait, get your water tested.

At Independent Water Service, Inc., we provide a free water analysis to determine what’s in your water and the best solution for your situation. We have been providing exceptional service to residents of Yakima and Central Washington since 1986, so you can rest assured that you are working with the experts.

Contact us today and get on the road to fresh, clean water!