Home water systems are used to carry water inflow into a house. The two most common types of home water systems are city water and well water. City systems include a large tank from which the water is piped into a home, apartment, or building. Public water flows through the municipal water system. At the home site water flows through a meter to gauge the amount of water used. The homeowner is then charged for the amount of water used. A water well system may be used as a personal well on a homeowner’s property or by a subdivision or community as a water source for multiple homes.
Public Water or Well Water
Public Water: Public water refers to the water supplied by a municipality or a water utility company. It is treated and regulated to meet certain quality standards before it reaches your tap. Public water sources can vary in hardness depending on the region and the treatment processes used. Public water flows through a system of pipes from the municipality and into your home. A meter is used to measure how much water is used, then you are billed by the city water department.
Well Water: Well water is sourced from underground aquifers through a private well on your property. It is not treated by a water utility company, so its quality can vary greatly. Well water can be hard or soft, depending on the geological composition of the area. It is important to regularly test well water for contaminants and mineral content to ensure its safety and quality. Wells can be deep wells or shallow wells. If you have a water source close to the surface of the ground, you may be a candidate for a shallow well. A professional driller can check your water table to figure out the depth to which the well should be dug. A shallow well is usually from 25-50 feet deep. Deep wells tap into a water table on your property deep underground. A deep well can be as deep as 1000 feet below the surface. Deepwater wells have a higher protection against potential surface contaminants than shallow wells.
Hard Water vs. Soft Water: What’s the Difference?
No matter how you get your water, there are different types of water. Some people say they have “hard water” or “soft water”. But what does that mean? Whether a water supply is considered “hard” or “soft” depends on how much of these minerals are in your water. Soft water contains lower levels of calcium and/or magnesium than hard water. Hard water results in detergents not making enough suds, and soaps and shampoos not lather very well. It can also cause more damage to pipes and water heaters due to the increased amount of minerals.
Hard Water: Hard water contains high levels of minerals, such as calcium and magnesium. These minerals are picked up as water passes through rocks and soil. While not harmful to your health, hard water can cause issues like limescale buildup in pipes, appliances, and fixtures. It can also make it harder to lather soap and shampoo, leaving a residue on your skin and hair. Having a water softener can have many benefits for homes with hard water. A water softener reduces water hardness by removing heavy minerals like calcium, iron, and magnesium from the water supply coming into the home. It works through ion exchange, a chemical process that substitutes sodium or potassium for the minerals that make water hard. Water softeners are not water filters and don’t usually remove any contaminants from your water.
Soft Water: Soft water, on the other hand, has low levels of minerals. It is achieved through a process called water softening, which removes the excess minerals from hard water. Soft water is gentler on your skin and hair, and it helps soap and detergents lather more effectively. It also prevents limescale buildup, extending the lifespan of your appliances.
Know The Difference
Understanding the differences between hard water, soft water, public water, and well water can help you make informed decisions about water treatment options and their impact on your daily life. Whether you choose to install a water softener, rely on public water, or maintain a private well, it’s essential to consider the specific needs of your household and the water quality in your area.
Remember, water is a precious resource, and ensuring its quality is crucial for your health and well-being. Stay informed and make the best choices for your water needs!