Eldorado water hardness (house, contractor, softener)

[tillyvick14]

Does anyone know if the water in Eldorado is so hard that it requires a water softener? The house I bought does not have one but I want to make sure it will not cause problems in the longer term to continue on without one. Many thanks!

[The Mule]

Originally Posted by tillyvick14

Does anyone know if the water in Eldorado is so hard that it requires a water softener? The house I bought does not have one but I want to make sure it will not cause problems in the longer term to continue on without one. Many thanks!

We moved in to Eldorado in mid September and had a water softener installed by the end of the month. It was tested at 15-17 grains per gallon, which is considered very hard. We used Culligan, but apparently our HVAC contractor also installs them and when he was out here he correctly guessed the hardness.

We are on Eldorado water. If you are on a well, it could be very different.

The effects of some number of years without a softener (and apparently the previous owners did have one for some time) are noticeable. Things like the compression valves under the sinks needing to be replaced if they are shut off and then reopened when replacing a faucet.

From our experience, I would say some sort of softening system is not optional here, and the gadget that sends pulses through the pipes is not nearly enough. My mother-in-law is considering moving here and I told her to expect to have that expense if whatever house she settles on does not have one.

The overall water quality is fine per the water district's reports, it is just very hard.

[tillyvick14]

Thank you very much for your response, this is very useful information.

[GreatSantaFe]

I agree with The Mule. A whole-house water softening system is a good idea. It'll keep water stains off your glassware and mineral deposits and build-up off the pipes and connections. Keep the outside water supply off the softening, as there's no need to water plants with softened water - and sodium salt isn't good for plants. Some people use potassium salt, but it's gotten so expensive that I think you'll find sodium salt perfectly fine - at 1/4 the cost. At our house we also have a Reverse Osmosis (RO) filter to provide 99.9% pure water for drinking, in our espresso machine, irons, etc. It's a separate faucet off the kitchen sink.

[funkymonkey]

I think it's almost 100% up to personal preference. I personally don't care for softened water.

[TomM1]

I had a Sears water softener installed and I use potassium crystals.
I also believe it may make it easier on my under sink RO filter.