All the signs of cooler weather are finally here: a leaf or two has dropped, the mosquitoes are taking a break from driving us mad, and many of us are noticing that our skin is drier than usual. That dryness is only made worse by Central Florida’s above-average hard water.
According to the 2024 OUC Annual Water Quality Report, Orlando’s water measures an average of 129 ppm (mg/L), which converts to roughly seven grains per gallon (gpg).
So what does that mean?
Water Hardness Classifications
- 60–120 mg/L = moderately hard
- 120–180 mg/L = hard
At 129 ppm, Orlando’s water is firmly in the hard category.
Hard water isn’t harmful to drink. Our local supply is full of magnesium and calcium, both of which are harmless and even beneficial in a diet. But they can definitely cause issues around the house. Here are some common problems associated with hard water:
- Plumbing: Mineral scale builds up inside pipes, water heaters and fixtures.
- Cleaning and soap: Hard water makes soap less effective, causing soap scum and residue.
- Skin and hair: Many people report dryness or buildup on their bodies.
- Appliances: Scale can reduce efficiency and shorten the lifespan of appliances that use water.
- Aesthetics: Spots and white deposits on dishes, glassware, faucets, and shower doors are annoying.
So, what can you do about it?
You have options:
- Again with the vinegar and baking soda: soak showerheads in vinegar overnight, and spray on faucets and glass (let stand for about 10 minutes before scrubbing off). A baking soda paste can clear the more stubborn stains on grout and sinks.
- Citric acid: I’ve heard fresh lemon juice works well, but this didn’t really work for me. If you know the secret to success, please share it!
- Commercial cleaners: CLR and Bar Keepers Friend are good to have on hand.
- Descale your water appliances monthly by running diluted vinegar cycle through each device. (And be sure to rinse well afterwards, especially the coffee maker.)
- Another option is installing a water softener, which can drop hardness levels to nearly zero.
What does it cost?
A basic water softener starts around $400, while higher capacity or “smart” systems can near $2,000. Professional installation generally runs about $500, depending on your setup. You’ll also need salt about once a month, which costs about $7 per 40-pound bag at Walmart. All in all, you’re looking at $800–$2,500 upfront, with minimal ongoing energy or maintenance costs.
Is it worth it? Maybe.
Here’s where a water softener can save money, time, and frustration:
- Longer appliance life: Less water scale means fewer repairs and a longer lifespan for water heaters, dishwashers, and washing machines.
- Energy savings: Water heaters and appliances run more efficiently without scale buildup.
- Lower cleaning costs and effort: Soap lathers better in soft water, and showers and sinks need less scrubbing.
- Reduced plumbing issues: Less scale inside pipes means fewer calls to the plumber.
Hard water isn’t dangerous, but it can be an unsightly and uncomfortable nuisance. Unfortunately, in Central Florida, it’s something nearly all of us have to deal with. The good news is that there are several ways to manage it.
Consistent cleaning habits, like vinegar soaks, baking soda scrubs, or regular descaling of appliances, can make a noticeable difference in reducing buildup. For some families, installing a water softener may offer additional long-term benefits, such as protecting plumbing, improving appliance efficiency, and making cleaning a bit easier. Whether you choose routine maintenance, a softening system, or a combination of both, there are practical options to help keep your home running smoothly and your water working better for you.