Hard water quiz Find out how to treat hard water in the home

By Christine Granados Standard-Radio Post Contributo

Fredericksburg’s drinking water contains high levels of naturally occurring calcium and magnesium. These minerals come from the nine wells in the Ellenburger and Hickory Sands aquifers, according to the City of Frederickburg’s consumer confidence report.

To find out the level of care you need to take regarding your home’s water system answer these six questions from Culligan experts. Give yourself one point for each yes answer.

1. Is there limescale buildup around faucets or showerheads?

2. Is there soap scum on shower walls, bathtubs, sinks and other fixtures in the kitchen or bathroom?

3. Is there corrosion on plumbing and pipes in your home?

4. Are there streaks or spots on your dishes?

5. Is your laundry stiff after washing?

6. Do you have dry or irritated skin and/or dull hair?

Scoring system answers for homeowners that show the effects of hard water.

One point — You may have spotty dishes and those spots can be cleaned by letting the dishes soak in the sink filled with hot water and a cup of vinegar.

Two points — Hard water buildup is not yet affecting your quality of life, but it should be addressed using a vinegar solution when cleaning.

Three points — Keep an eye on shower heads and pipes that may stop working efficiently. Use a water and baking soda scrub to remove stains.

Four points — Scaly buildup may be affecting your gas and heating bills. Go to the City of Fredericksburg’s water quality report to learn more about the quality of water in the area https://www.fbgtx.org/DocumentCenter/ View/4225/2020-Drinking-H2O-Quality-Report.

Five points — It’s time to start looking into a whole house water filtration system. Schedule a free in-home water test with a local water expert, such as Culligan.

Six points — It’s time to bite the bullet and install a water softener in your home.

Homeowners, who are building their home in Gillespie County, should consider investing in a water softener, according to local experts.