Many of us have heard about hard and soft water.  We have probably heard that we do not want hard water, but do we really know why?  While hard water is not dangerous to a person's health, it has a number of undesirable effects.  SaltInstitute.org discusses what hard water is and where hard water is most common, " As it leaves the skies in the form of rain, water is soft, meaning it is clear of impurities. But it picks up carbon dioxide and other impurities in the air. It also dissolves calcium and magnesium salts as it soaks through the earth and runs off into rivers or lakes and collects in reservoirs or wells. If the water, in these processes, picks up a substantial amount of invisible dissolved rock, calcium carbonate and other substances, it becomes “hard” a defined term... U.S drinking water contains an average of 7.1 grains per gallon/121 mg/L of hardness.
The U.S. Geological Survey calculates that 89.3% of U.S. homes have hard water with the hardest water found in the belt running from Kansas and Texas on the east to Southern California to the west with up to ten times the minimum defined concentration of calcium carbonate to be “hard.” There are indications water is becoming even harder. The ever-increasing demand for water has lowered the water table, causing a greater draw-off at the surface which raises the natural hardness of water."  Hard water does not create as good of a lather when bathing, can form lime scales in water heaters and it clings to skin and fabric, dulling fabric colors and shortening their life.
For many, the solution is to install a water softener.  Water softeners change hard water to soft water but they do require some maintenance.  While there are many automatic systems that do most of the maintenance for themselves but, even so, water softeners should be  routinely checked and maintained.  LivingSpace360.com discusses what should be regularly maintained with your water softener, "The brine tank must be inspected for salt build up which will need to be dealt with. You must also be sure that the salt level is adequate. Consult the manufacturer for type of salt used, but evaporated salt may be your best choice for low maintenance, though it is more expensive than other types of salt.  You will need to check the resin bed. Although they last many years, you should check periodically to be sure that all is well with this important part of your water softener system.  Usually a buildup of iron or other problem can be solved by cleaning. However, a growth of algae or visible bacterial build up may mean it is time to replace the resin bed."  By regularly maintaining your water softener, you can extend the life of your water softener and continue enjoying soft water in your home.