This harbor ensures clean, healthy water. For on-point water-softening services and more, give our plumbers a call!

Although most Massachusetts cities have soft water, many areas still deliver moderately hard water to residences and businesses. The U.S. Department of Energy claims that this area includes water with a 3.5 GPG rating or higher due to a high concentration of calcium and magnesium and other metals, like zinc and iron. So what causes hard water, and does your property need water softener services?

Our Blue Harbor Plumbing, Heating & Cooling team has been around for over 15 years. That means we’ve seen how something as simple as hard water leads to further plumbing issues. If you’d like a quick guide, here’s how to tell if you have hard water and what softeners actually do.

The Primary Causes of Hard Water

Does your water come from underground sources, like springs and private wells? If so, it likely travels through limestone, making it “moderate” to “hard” in classification terms. Many cities use nearby lakes, rivers, and streams to provide soft water. Even so, the softest water may still hold minerals and metals as it travels through older pipe systems.

Unlike PVC pipes, iron or galvanized steel pipes coated with zinc also leave chipped particles in the water supply as they crack and dissolve. So, whether it’s from under the ground or the pipes themselves, how do you know whether you have a hard water issue?

The Signs of Hard Water in Your Plumbing

Is your hard water issue seriously affecting pipes and appliances? Look for these signs you need a water-softening system:

• Soap and shampoo don’t lather in the shower.
• Your skin and hair are dry and itchy.
• Liquid soap and detergent are less effective at cleaning dishes and clothes.
• Dishes are spotty with streaks.
• Clothes feel rough and scratchy.

Why To Invest in Water Softeners

While hard water isn’t harmful when digested, such as when you brush your teeth, it’s considerably tough on pipes and appliances. Water softener services help with both.

Pipe Corrosion and Leaks

Hard water minerals negatively affect metal piping, creating a chemical reaction that leads to rust. Untreated corrosion then leads to pipe staining while the pipe walls, seals, and seams weaken.

Without intervention, hard water may soon mean: 

• Leaks.
• Floor, ceiling, and wall stains.
• Musty odors.
• Fungal growth.
• Mineral deposits settling in your plumbing system to cause scale buildup and clogs.

The ensuing blockages also create pressure issues in your property’s pipes and risk pipe bursts.

Damaged Appliances With Reduced Functionality

The second problem with hard water is not the pipes but the appliances into which hard water flows. You may need water softener services if your dishwasher or washing machine’s water inlet valves pull water from your home’s supply line and clog from the scale buildup.

Blockages greatly reduce an appliance’s performance and energy efficiency, which gets expensive. These appliances also work harder with restricted water flow, which accelerates replacement needs.

How We Install a Soft Water System

First, Blue Harbor Plumbing, Heating & Cooling conducts a water test to determine your property’s water hardness. If your water has a 3.5 GPG rating or higher, we’ll suggest water softener services outdoors or indoors.

Installation works as follows:

• Use a pipe cutter for installation within the main water line.
• Assemble a bypass valve.
• Connect the softener’s inlet and outlet valves to the bypass valve.
• Attach a drain tube to the softener’s drain saddle.
• Plug the water softener into a power outlet.
• Turn on the water supply.
• Test for leaks.

We’ll also set up a regeneration schedule to keep the water softener working efficiently.

Say No to Hard Water Damage!

Hard water can spell disaster for your plumbing, appliances, and comfort. Blue Harbor Plumbing, Heating & Cooling’ licensed and insured team can help with our unmatched water softener services in South Shore, MA, and the surrounding areas! Call 781-421-7377 for a free quote.

FAQs About Soft Water Systems

Below are some frequently asked questions about soft water systems from Blue Harbor Plumbing, Heating & Cooling’ clients in Massachusetts.

What Size Water Softener Does My Property Need?

Your property’s water softener’s size will depend on several factors, such as:

• How hard your property’s water is.
• Your daily water consumption pattern.
• How many people use the water source.

Do You Offer After-Hour Plumbing Services?

Yes, Blue Harbor Plumbing, Heating & Cooling provides 24/7 assistance in case of emergencies in the South Shore. You’ll never be on your own in a plumbing emergency.

Do My Water Softener Services Come With a Warranty?

Yes, all your water softener services and more from Blue Harbor Plumbing, Heating & Cooling will come with a one-year warranty.