Water is essential to our daily lives, but did you know that the quality of your water can directly impact your wallet?

By installing a home water treatment system, you not only ensure that your family enjoys clean, safe water, but you can also save a significant amount of money over time.

Here’s how:

1. Reduce Your Spending on Soap and Detergents

Hard water contains high levels of minerals like calcium and magnesium, which can interfere with the effectiveness of soaps and detergents. With untreated water, you’ll use more soap, shampoo, laundry detergent, and dishwashing liquid to get things clean. A home water treatment system softens your water, meaning you’ll need less soap to get the job done. This reduction in usage can lead to noticeable savings on your grocery bills.

2. Extend the Life of Your Appliances

Mineral buildup from hard water can cause significant wear and tear on household appliances such as water heaters, dishwashers, and washing machines. These appliances work harder and less efficiently when dealing with hard water, leading to higher energy bills and a shortened lifespan for the equipment. A water treatment system helps prevent mineral buildup, keeping your appliances running smoothly and efficiently saving you from costly repairs and premature replacements.

3. Cut Down on Energy Costs

When water heaters are exposed to hard water, they become less efficient due to scale buildup, requiring more energy to heat your water. A water treatment system ensures your water heater operates at peak efficiency, lowering energy bills. Also, softer water heats faster, saving you even more money.

4. Protect Your Plumbing

Hard water doesn’t just affect your appliances; it can also wreak havoc on your home’s plumbing system. The minerals in untreated water can accumulate in your pipes, reducing water flow and leading to clogs and leaks. This can result in expensive plumbing repairs. A water treatment system prevents these issues, helping you avoid unexpected plumbing costs and extending the lifespan of your pipes.

5. Save on Skin and Hair Care Products

Hard water is harsh on skin and hair, often leading to dryness and irritation. Many people spend extra on moisturizers, conditioners, and other personal care products to combat these effects. With a water treatment system, your water will be gentler on your skin and hair, reducing the need for these additional products and saving you money in the process.

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Investing in a home water treatment system isn’t just about improving water quality—it’s about making smart financial decisions for your household. The savings on soap, detergents, appliance maintenance, and energy costs can add up quickly, making a water treatment system a wise investment.

Want to see how much you could save?

Start with a free water test from Robertson Family Water. Our experts will help you understand the benefits of treated water tailored to your home’s needs.

One often overlooked aspect of home maintenance is the quality of water flowing through your pipes.

Untreated hard water, which contains high levels of minerals like calcium and magnesium, can significantly impact household plumbing over time. Understanding and mitigating these effects is crucial for protecting your home and ensuring a smooth-running plumbing system.

How Untreated Water Affects Plumbing

Spring is a time for renewal, making it an ideal season to start your water filtration system maintenance. Here’s what you should do:

1. Scale Buildup in Pipes
   • Hard water leads to the accumulation of mineral deposits, known as scale, inside pipes. Over time, this scale buildup can restrict water flow, reducing the efficiency of your plumbing system and increasing the likelihood of blockages.
2. Corrosion and Pipe Damage
   • The minerals in hard water can react with the metal in pipes, leading to corrosion. This weakens the pipes and increases the risk of leaks and bursts, resulting in costly repairs and potential water damage.
3. Appliance Efficiency
   • Hard water can also impact household appliances that use water, such as dishwashers, washing machines, and water heaters. Scale buildup can reduce their efficiency, shorten their lifespan, and increase energy consumption, leading to higher utility bills.
4. Fixtures and Faucets
   • Faucets, showerheads, and other fixtures can suffer from reduced water flow and performance due to mineral deposits. Over time, these fixtures may require more frequent maintenance or replacement.

Mitigating the Issues with Water Treatment Solutions

1. Water Softeners
   • Installing a water softener is one of the most effective ways to combat hard water. These devices work by exchanging calcium and magnesium ions in the water with sodium ions, significantly reducing the hardness and preventing scale buildup in pipes and appliances.
2. Descaling Agents
   • Descaling agents can help dissolve mineral deposits in your plumbing system. This maintenance routine can improve water flow and extend the lifespan of your pipes and appliances.
3. Regular Plumbing Maintenance
   • Scheduling regular inspections and maintenance with a professional plumber can help identify and address issues caused by hard water before they become major problems. This proactive approach ensures your plumbing system remains in good condition.
4. Inline Water Filters
   • Installing inline water filters can help reduce the amount of minerals and other impurities entering your plumbing system. These filters are an excellent supplement to water softeners, providing additional protection for your pipes and appliances.

Don’t wait until the effects of untreated hard water compromise your plumbing system. Schedule a water test with Robertson Family Water today to determine the hardness of your water.

Our experts will provide you with the information and solutions needed to protect your home and maintain the efficiency of your plumbing system.

Get Your Water Tested Today for Peace of Mind!

Investing in a home water filtration system is a great step toward ensuring your family access to clean, safe drinking water. However, like any home appliance, water filtration systems require regular maintenance to operate efficiently and prolong their lifespan. Here’s a comprehensive seasonal maintenance guide to help you keep your home water filtration system in top condition year-round.

Spring Maintenance

Spring is a time for renewal, making it an ideal season to start your water filtration system maintenance. Here’s what you should do:

1. Filter Replacement: Replace pre-filters and post-filters according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. This is essential to maintain the effectiveness of your system in removing contaminants.
2. Sanitize the System: Your filtration system might need a good cleaning after a long winter. Use a non-toxic, food-grade sanitizer to clean the tanks and lines.
3. Check for Leaks: Inspect all connections and hoses for any signs of leaks or wear and tear. Replace any damaged components to prevent future problems.
4. Water Quality Testing: Perform a comprehensive water quality test. Spring runoff can affect water quality, and this test will help you identify any new contaminants that need to be addressed.

Summer Maintenance

As temperatures rise, water usage typically increases. Here’s how to ensure your system keeps up:

1. Inspect the System: Give your filtration system a thorough once-over. Check the filters, membranes, and storage tanks for any signs of damage or clogging.
2. Adjust System Settings: If your system has variable settings, adjust them for higher water usage during summer.
3. Flush the System: Perform a full system flush to clear out any accumulated debris or sediment. This ensures that your system runs smoothly and efficiently.
4. Check Outdoor Filters: If you use outdoor water filtration units for garden or lawn irrigation, inspect and clean them to ensure they’re free of debris and functioning properly.

Fall Maintenance

As the weather cools down, it’s important to prepare your system for the lower temperatures ahead:

1. Pre-Winter Inspection: Before the cold weather sets in, thoroughly inspect your filtration system. Look for any potential problems that freezing temperatures could exacerbate.
2. Replace Filters: Fall is an excellent time to replace any worn-out filters to ensure your system is ready for increased water usage during the holiday season.
3. Winterize Outdoor Components: If you have outdoor filtration components, make sure they are insulated or drained to prevent freezing damage.
4. Test the Water Quality: Conduct another water quality test after the summer to ensure your system effectively filters out contaminants.

Winter Maintenance

Winter brings its own set of challenges, but with proper care, your water filtration system can continue to provide clean water:

1. Monitor the System: Regularly check your system, especially during extreme cold spells. Look for any signs of freezing or stress on the system.
2. Insulate Exposed Pipes: Ensure that any exposed pipes and components are well insulated to prevent freezing. This is particularly important for outdoor or garage-installed systems.
3. Reduce System Strain: If you’re expecting severe weather, consider reducing the load on your system. Use water judiciously and avoid overtaxing the system with unnecessary water filtration tasks.
4. Emergency Preparedness: Keep a supply of replacement filters and necessary tools on hand. Being prepared can help you quickly restore functionality in case of a system failure.

General Year-Round Tips

Regardless of the season, some maintenance tasks are essential all year:

1. Regular Filter Changes and Salt Refills: Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for filter replacement intervals. Overused filters can become less effective and may even release captured contaminants back into the water.
2. System Inspection: Schedule professional inspections at least once a year. A professional can identify and fix issues you might overlook.
3. Keep It Clean: Regularly clean the exterior of your system and ensure the area around it is free of dust and debris.
4. Stay Informed: Stay updated on any new developments or recalls related to your filtration system. This can help you take timely action if needed.

Maintaining your home water filtration system doesn’t have to be a daunting task. Following this seasonal guide ensures that your system operates efficiently and provides your family with clean, safe water year-round. Regular maintenance extends the life of your system and guarantees the highest quality of water for your household needs.

If you need help maintaining your system or just simply don’t have time, we’re here for you. Sign up for our maintenance plan today and never have to worry about your water again.

More and more households are turning to home water filtration systems. These systems provide cleaner, tastier water and boast significant environmental benefits. From reducing plastic waste to minimizing chemical runoff, the impact of installing a water filtration system at home extends far beyond just convenience and health benefits.

The Environmental Impact of Home Water Filtration Systems

Reducing Plastic Waste

One of home water filtration systems’ most immediate and tangible environmental benefits is reducing plastic waste.

Each year, billions of plastic water bottles are sold worldwide, and a significant portion of these end up in landfills, oceans, and other natural environments where they can decompose for up to 1,000 years.

By providing safe, clean drinking water directly from the tap, home water filtration systems eliminate the need for bottled water. This shift not only helps reduce the overall production of plastic but also decreases the volume of plastic waste that needs to be managed by waste services, thus alleviating pressure on local landfill sites. Moreover, the production of plastic bottles consumes large amounts of fossil fuels and water.

A home water filtration system significantly reduces these resource expenditures. By filtering your drinking water at home, you actively participate in a global effort to reduce carbon footprints and conserve precious natural resources.

Minimizing Chemical Runoff

Another critical environmental impact of home water filtration systems is their ability to minimize chemical runoff. Chemicals like chlorine and chloramines are commonly used in municipal water treatment to kill bacteria and other pathogens. However, when flushed back into the environment, these chemicals and other contaminants found in tap water, such as lead, pesticides, and pharmaceutical residues, threaten human health, wildlife, and ecosystems.

Home water filtration systems, especially those equipped with activated carbon filters or reverse osmosis technology, effectively remove these harmful chemicals and contaminants from drinking water. The clean water that results requires less reliance on chemical treatments, leading to fewer contaminants entering local waterways. This is particularly beneficial for aquatic life and can help maintain the health of local rivers, lakes, and streams.

Encouraging Sustainable Agriculture Practices

Home water filtration systems indirectly encourage more sustainable agricultural practices by reducing the presence of chemicals in runoff water. When fewer agricultural chemicals enter public waterways, there is less need for aggressive water treatment solutions that involve additional chemicals.

This can lead to a virtuous cycle in which improved water quality reduces reliance on agricultural and water treatment chemicals.

Educating the Public on Water Conservation

Home water filtration systems improve water quality and serve as an educational tool for water conservation. They make users more aware of water purity and scarcity issues, fostering a greater appreciation for this vital resource.

This awareness can encourage people to adopt more sustainable water usage habits, such as fixing leaks promptly, using water-efficient appliances, and practicing water conservation daily.

Long-Term Benefits and Considerations

While the benefits of home water filtration systems are clear, consumers must also choose their systems wisely. Some filtration systems might use excessive water, particularly those with reverse osmosis, which can have a high ratio of waste to clean water. Opting for systems that balance purification efficiency with water conservation is crucial.

Additionally, these systems should be maintained responsibly. Filters and membranes must be disposed of properly, and systems must be maintained efficiently to avoid wasting water.

Home water filtration systems offer an excellent opportunity to reduce environmental impact significantly. By reducing plastic waste and chemical runoff, these systems provide safer, cleaner drinking water and contribute to a more sustainable planet.

As more households adopt these systems, the cumulative effect on reducing global plastic waste and protecting aquatic ecosystems can be profound. Remember, every drop counts, and each step we take toward sustainability leads to a healthier Earth.

Let us help you find peace of mind with water that’s good for the Earth, refreshing, and, most importantly, safe.

Water hardness is one of those home maintenance issues that can remain unnoticed—until it starts causing problems. Understanding what water hardness means and how it can impact your home and health is the first step toward protecting your household appliances and improving your living conditions. Let’s dive into the basics of water hardness, its effects, and what you can do about it.

Understanding Water Hardness: What It Means for You and Your Home

What is Water Hardness?

Water hardness refers to the concentration of certain minerals in the water, primarily calcium and magnesium. When water percolates through limestone, chalk, or gypsum, it picks up these minerals along the way. The higher the concentration of calcium and magnesium, the harder the water. Water hardness is measured in grains per gallon (gpg) or milligrams per liter (mg/L). Water with more than 7 grains per gallon is generally considered hard.

Effects of Hard Water on Home Appliances

Hard water can wreak havoc on home appliances and plumbing systems over time. Here are some common problems caused by hard water:

Scaling in Pipes and Faucets: Minerals from hard water can build up in your home’s pipes and faucets, reducing water flow and increasing pressure, which can lead to leaks and bursts.

Damage to Water Heaters: Hard water can accumulate limescale inside water heaters. This shortens the appliance’s lifespan and reduces its efficiency, increasing energy costs.

Appliance Wear and Tear: Hard water can damage dishwashers, washing machines, and other appliances that use water. The mineral build-up can clog hoses and pumps and reduce the effectiveness of soaps and detergents.

Impact on Daily Living

Aside from the physical damage to your home, hard water can also affect daily living in several ways:

Skin and Hair Health: Bathing in hard water can leave skin feeling dry and itchy due to the soap scum that hard water creates. It can also make your hair feel dull and harder to manage.

Laundry Issues: Clothes washed in hard water often come out stiffer and duller because soap also does not lather. Hard water can also cause white fabrics to gray and colors to fade.

General Cleaning: Hard water makes cleaning more challenging as it leaves streaks on glass, silverware, and mirrors, and soap scum on bathtubs and sinks.

Solutions to Hard Water

Fortunately, hard water is a manageable condition. Here are some solutions to consider:

Water Softeners: Installing a water softener in your home is one of the most effective ways to combat hard water. These systems use salt to remove minerals from the water through a process called ion exchange.

Magnetic and Electronic Descalers: These devices claim to alter the electromagnetic properties of the calcium and magnesium minerals so they won’t adhere to surfaces. While they do not remove the minerals, they can help reduce scaling.

Phosphate Treatments: Adding small amounts of phosphates can help prevent minerals from precipitating out, thus minimizing scaling. This method can be particularly useful in small-scale applications like single appliances.

Making the Right Choice

Deciding on the best solution for hard water depends on several factors, including the hardness level, your budget, and your household size.

A comprehensive water test can help determine the hardness level and guide you in choosing the most appropriate treatment system.

While hard water is not a health hazard, it poses various nuisances and potential costs regarding home maintenance and appliance longevity.

Understanding the signs of hard water and considering the appropriate treatment options can protect your appliances, improve your water quality, and make your home more comfortable. Consider consulting with a water treatment professional who can provide personalized advice and solutions tailored to your home’s specific needs.

Remember, the right water treatment system can be a worthy investment in preserving the longevity and functionality of your home.

Let us help you find peace of mind with water that’s not only refreshing but, most importantly, safe.

Like many other cities, Murfreesboro’s tap water may not be as pure as you think. Despite efforts to provide safe drinking water, various contaminants can still be found at levels higher than health guidelines recommend. This post explores the top 10 contaminants in Murfreesboro’s tap water, their potential health effects, federal guidelines, and the percentage of these contaminants exceeding those guidelines.

The Top 10 Contaminants Found In Murfreesboro Tap Water

1. Chloroform: A byproduct of water chlorination processes, chloroform is a trihalomethane (THM) linked to potential cancer risks and reproductive issues.
Federal Guideline: 70 parts per billion (ppb)
Murfreesboro Reading: Exceeds by 70%, indicating a significant presence that could impact health.

2. Bromodichloromethane: Another THM, this compound forms alongside chloroform during water disinfection and shares similar health risks, including cancer.
Federal Guideline: No direct guideline, but part of TTHMs limit of 80 ppb
Murfreesboro Reading: 60% higher, underlining a need for attention to water treatment practices.

3. Dibromochloromethane: This contaminant, part of the THM family, arises from chlorination and poses risks to the liver, kidneys, and reproductive health.
Federal Guideline: Included in the TTHMs limit
Murfreesboro Reading: 48% above health-based guidelines, further highlighting the impact of disinfection byproducts.

4. Chromium (hexavalent): A carcinogenic metal that can enter water through industrial processes, posing significant health risks.
Federal Guideline: 0.1 ppb (California guideline, as a reference)
Murfreesboro Reading: 500% above, marking a critical health concern for residents.

5. Nitrate: Often stemming from agricultural runoff, high levels of nitrate can affect oxygen transport in the blood, particularly in infants.
Federal Guideline: 10 mg/L
Murfreesboro Reading: Exceeds by 10%, calling for measures to reduce contamination sources.

6. Trihalomethanes (TTHMs): Collectively, these byproducts of disinfection can cause cancer and reproductive issues with prolonged exposure.
Federal Guideline: 80 ppb
Murfreesboro Reading: 22% higher, underscoring the challenge of balancing disinfection with potential health effects.

7. Haloacetic Acids (HAA5): Similar to THMs, HAAs form during water disinfection and carry cancer risks.
Federal Guideline: 60 ppb
Murfreesboro Reading: 18% above, emphasizing the complexity of maintaining clean yet safe water.

8. Lead: Lead can leach from pipes into drinking water, affecting brain development and function.
Federal Guideline: Action level at 15 ppb
Murfreesboro Reading: Variability by home; vigilance is needed as no lead level is safe, especially for children.

9. Arsenic: Naturally occurring or from industrial pollution, arsenic in water can lead to skin, heart, and lung issues.
Federal Guideline: 10 ppb
Murfreesboro Reading: Levels are concerning, with some samples significantly above the guideline, requiring urgent action.

10. Uranium: This radioactive element can damage kidneys and increase cancer risk.
Federal Guideline: 30 µg/L
Murfreesboro Reading: Up to 3 times the guideline, a serious health hazard that necessitates immediate attention.

What Can Murfreesboro Residents Do?

Awareness is the first step toward ensuring the safety of your drinking water. While the city works to comply with federal and state regulations, individuals can take measures to protect themselves and their families further:

Filter Your Water: A high-quality water filter targeting the contaminants listed above can significantly reduce exposure. Look for filters certified to remove specific chemicals.

Stay Informed: Regularly check updates from the local water authority and environmental organizations like the EWG to stay informed about water quality in Murfreesboro.

Test Your Water: Consider testing your home’s water, especially if you live in an older house that may have lead pipes or solder.

Advocate for Better Policies: Support local and national efforts to improve water infrastructure and enforce stricter regulations on pollutants.

Emergency Preparedness: Have a plan in place in the event of a contamination alert. This may include stocking up on bottled water or having a portable filtration system.

At Family Water Treatment, we understand the importance of having clean, safe water in your home. Our comprehensive water testing service can help identify the specific contaminants in your water. Knowing what you’re dealing with is the first step toward making informed decisions about water treatment solutions.

Don’t take chances with your health and the well-being of your family. Contact Family Water Treatment today to schedule a water test and see what’s really in your tap water.

Let us help you find peace of mind with water that’s not only refreshing but, most importantly, safe.

When it comes to maintaining a lush, vibrant lawn, the quality of water you use is just as important as sunlight and soil. Many homeowners overlook this crucial element, but at Family Water Treatment, we understand that your lawn will benefit from water treatment in numerous ways. Here’s how investing in a water treatment solution can transform your lawn into the envy of the neighborhood.

Enhanced Growth and Health

Just like us, plants thrive on quality water. Tap water often contains high levels of chlorine and other chemicals intended to make water safe for drinking but can be harmful to plant life. Water treatment systems can significantly reduce these chemicals, providing your lawn with a cleaner water source. This can lead to enhanced growth, stronger roots, and a more resilient lawn that’s better equipped to withstand the challenges of pests and changing weather conditions.

Efficient Water Usage

Treated water can be absorbed by the soil more efficiently than hard water, which often contains minerals that can build up in the soil and affect its ability to hold water. This means your lawn can retain moisture better, reducing the need for frequent watering. Over time, this not only makes your lawn care routine more sustainable but also conserves water and can lead to savings on your water bill.

Reduction in Fertilizer and Pesticide Use

When your lawn is healthier from the get-go, thanks to quality water, you’ll find that you need to rely less on fertilizers and pesticides. Chemical build-up from untreated water can stress your lawn, making it more susceptible to diseases and pest infestations. By using treated water, your lawn maintains its health naturally, diminishing the need for chemical interventions.

Longer Lifespan of Lawn Care Equipment

Hard water can take a toll on lawn care equipment, leading to buildup and corrosion over time. Using treated water helps prolong the life of your sprinklers, hoses, and other watering equipment, ensuring that they work more efficiently and save you money on replacements and repairs.

Aesthetic Appeal

A healthy lawn is a beautiful lawn. Water treatment ensures that your grass gets the best possible care, leading to vibrant green hues and lush textures. Your lawn will benefit from water treatment by becoming a more inviting and enjoyable outdoor space for you and your family. It also increases curb appeal, which can add value to your home.

Your lawn will benefit from water treatment in numerous ways, from enhanced growth and health to eco-friendly gardening practices. At Family Water Treatment, we’re committed to providing solutions that not only benefit your home but also the environment. If you’re ready to see these benefits in action, consider scheduling a consultation with us. Together, we can ensure that your lawn reaches its full potential, providing a beautiful, healthy space for your family to enjoy.

Remember, a well-maintained lawn starts with the basics, and water quality is at the heart of it. Investing in water treatment is an investment in the health and beauty of your home’s outdoor space.