Hardness of water

Water hardness is one of the main indicators of the quality of natural drinking water, which expresses the total content of magnesium and calcium ions in water. Very often, an excess amount of hardness salts gets into the water, which leads to its increased mineralization and causes significant hardness. Mineralization in combination with hardness or total salt content (Cl is an indicator of concentration) also has a direct effect on scale

Water Hardness: Impact and Assessment of Drinking Water Quality

Water hardness is an important indicator of its mineralization and is often used to assess the quality of drinking water. It is expressed by the total content of calcium and magnesium ions in water and is measured in milliequivalents per liter (mg-eq/l). The higher the content of these ions, the harder the water.

The presence of calcium and magnesium in water can have both positive and negative effects on human health and household systems. One of the main problems associated with hard water is its effect on household appliances and plumbing systems. High water hardness can lead to scale formation in boilers, pipes, washing machines and other appliances, reducing their efficiency and service life. This may require additional maintenance and repair costs.

However, calcium and magnesium are also important micronutrients necessary for human health. They play an important role in the formation of bones and teeth, the nervous system, muscles and other physiological processes. Drinking water with some calcium and magnesium content may be beneficial for maintaining optimal health.

Assessing water hardness is an important step in determining its potability. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), water hardness is generally classified into the following levels:

1. Soft water: less than 60 mEq/L.
2. Average water hardness: from 60 to 120 mEq/l.
3. Hard water: from 120 to 180 mEq/L.
4. Very hard water: more than 180 mEq/l.

These classifications help you assess the degree of water hardness and take appropriate measures to ensure optimal use.

There are several ways to reduce water hardness if it is considered too high for a particular need or is causing plumbing problems. One common method is the use of ion exchange, in which calcium and magnesium ions are replaced by sodium ions or other less hard ions. Other methods include reverse osmosis, adding chemical additives, or using magnetic devices that reduce scale formation.

In conclusion, water hardness is an important indicator of its mineralization and assessment of the quality of drinking water. It can affect household appliances, plumbing systems and human health. High water hardness can lead to scale formation and reduced efficiency of household appliances, but some calcium and magnesium content is also beneficial for the body. Assessing water hardness allows it to be classified and appropriate measures taken to ensure optimal use. There are various methods for reducing water hardness, and the specific method you choose depends on your specific circumstances. It is important to consider water hardness when planning your drinking water use and servicing your appliances to ensure the longevity and efficiency of your systems.