You are here: Home > 2016 RV Accessories Articles > The Scaling Facts About Hard Water
On The Go RV Water SoftenerWater containing high levels of minerals such as calcium, lime and magnesium can create a hard water environment. Groundwater acquires these minerals by dissolving them from surrounding soil and rock. Left untreated, over time these ions will negatively affect your RV’s water supply, pipes and plumbing fixtures.
Similar to a water softener in your home, installing a portable water softener for your RV will remove the mineral ions, reducing the negative effects of hard water. Water softeners contain beads that house electrically charged ions. As hard water passes through the softener, calcium and magnesium ions are attracted to the charged beads. As a result, the calcium and magnesium ions are removed producing “soft water”.
4 Signs That You May Be Experiencing Hard Water
  • Mineral build-up, or “scale” around plumbing fixtures and in pipes. Aesthetics aside, over time mineral buildup can restrict the flow of water through your RV’s plumbing system.
  • Soap scum build-up in the shower. When minerals mix with soap you are left with a filmy white residue on the walls of your shower. Soap scum can be cleaned, but it’s a temporary fix.
  • Your skin is dry and itchy after showering. Air temperature isn’t the only element that creates dry skin. It’s possible that the minerals in your water are leaving a soapy residue on your skin, causing irritation.
  • Water spots on dishes and glasses.Similar to the soap scum in your shower, the minerals in your hard water are mixing with your dish detergent leaving spots on your dishware.
Life is Hard, Your Water Doesn’t Have to Be
Installing a portable water softener for your RV not only reduces the effects hard water, it can potentially save you money. Combating hard water will deliver more efficient use of soaps, prevent costly plumbing repairs and maintain your RV’s appearance and resale value.
RVUpgrades.com offers a variety of affordable water softeners and water softener supplies for your RV. Visit our product page to learn more about portable water softeners!