The FONTUS Guide to Testing & Treatment for Hard Water, Iron, & Manganese

Many Maine homes commonly deal with hard water, iron & manganese in their drinking water. Testing and treatment for hard water, iron, and manganese minerals are crucial for your family and coworkers’ health. Plus, these minerals can be detrimental to your plumbing as well! If you have one of these issues and want to learn more, you’ve come to the right place.

Hard water is caused by an overabundance of naturally-occurring minerals, calcium and magnesium. Iron and manganese occur naturally in soil, rocks, and even plants. Their presence in drinking water is not a problem unless they appear at an excessive level. When that happens, water may become discolored.

Calcium and magnesium are a common problem for Maine homes that source water from wells, as well as city water. However, the good news is that hard water does not cause health problems—aesthetic problems, yes, but health problems, no.

Contact or call Fontus Water Treatment today to learn more about how we can help you enjoy cleaner, iron-free water.

What Happens with Hard Water?

In homes with hard water, soap doesn’t lather particularly well. As a result, you may notice white spots on your faucets, a cloudy film on your coffeemaker carafe, and even laundry that doesn’t smell as fresh as it should. After a shower or washing your hands, your skin may feel tight and dry.

Excess amounts may also affect the taste of beverages. While these are annoyances, excess amounts of calcium and magnesium can build up deposits of the minerals. Deposits called “scale” can clog pipes and plumbing, restricting the flow of water. Scale deposits in pipes, plumbing, and hot water tanks are worrisome in boilers and water heaters. Over time scale deposits reduce the efficiency of your heating system and shorten your equipment’s life. Not a great thing when you live in the Northeast.

What Can Be Done About Hard Water?

Testing and treatment for hard water, iron, manganese can feel overwhelming. The good news is that iron and manganese can be removed from water by any number of methods. Hard water is easily remedied with ion exchange water softeners, oxidation, filtration, or sequestration, depending on the hardness level.