When people install a water softener or move to a new place, they often notice a change in the taste of their water. A lot of people ask this: does hard water truly taste different than soft water, or is it just in your head? The fact is that there might be a big difference, and it all depends on what is actually in the water.
Knowing why water tastes the way it does might help you choose the correct kind of water for your house and your tastes.
What Is Hard Water?
Minerals that are found in nature, mostly calcium and magnesium, are what make water hard. As water flows through rock and soil before it gets to houses and businesses, it picks up these minerals.
Water is typically quite hard in many regions of Arizona, which is why water softeners are so popular. Hard water is usually safe to drink, but the greater mineral concentration might change how it tastes and how it works in everyday life.
The Taste of Hard Water
Hard water usually has a flavor that is a little mineral or gritty. Some individuals say it feels “heavier” or less crisp than softer water. Not everyone finds the taste bad, and some individuals may like it better, especially if they grew up in a region with naturally hard water.
The precise flavor can change based on how hard the water is and what minerals are in it. Sometimes the difference is little, but other times it’s very clear.
How Soft Water Tastes
Most of the calcium and magnesium have been taken out of softened water. Through ion exchange, a little quantity of sodium takes the place of these minerals throughout the softening process.
This is why soft water might taste a little different. Some individuals say it tastes smoother or cleaner, while others perceive a slight difference in flavor, especially if they are used to drinking hard water.
People’s tastes are different, and they often get used to the kind of water they drink all the time.
Why Taste Differences Are Important
Taste is just one thing that affects the quality of water, but it may change how much water people drink and whether they want to filter or treat it.
Hard water may leave scale on faucets, dishes, and appliances, in addition to having a bad taste. Soft water helps with such problems, which is why many people opt to soften their water even when they still use a filtered drinking line for flavor.
Finding the Right Balance
Some homeowners want their whole house to have soft water, but they utilize a carbon filter or reverse osmosis system at the kitchen sink for cooking and drinking. This system gives you the benefits of soft water and highly filtered water that tastes and smells good.
Some people are fine with drinking softened water and like the way it tastes smoother.
Find Out More About Your Water
If you’re not sure if your water is hard or soft, or if you’re thinking about getting a water softener, having a professional test it can help you figure it out.
Salt Works USA In Arizona
At Salt Works we strive to meet the salt delivery needs for the entire Phoenix valley. Proudly serving the great state of Arizona for over 20 years, Salt Works has become a leading provider for salt and water treatment needs by earning the trust of our valued customers. We promise to build on our strong foundation and reputation through exceptional customer service and quality of our products. Contact us today!
