Aqua Clear - Official Water Treatment and Plumbing Blog

How Hard Water Damages Pipes and Appliances

Tue, 31 Mar 2026 06:24:48 GMT

How Hard Water Damages Pipes and Appliances

Dealing with hard water in your home is exactly how it sounds: hard. The extra minerals in the water might be safe to drink, but they’ll show no mercy to your pipes and appliances.

Here’s how hard water damage to plumbing in New River Valley, Virginia homes can be an expensive headache that, fortunately, can be managed with the right water-treatment plan.

An Overclocked Water Heater

Water heaters are often one of the most expensive appliances to run in a home. Hard water makes them even more costly. The heavy minerals sit at the bottom of the heater, creating a layer of sediment that grows over time. The buildup eventually becomes a barrier between the heating element and the water itself.

This layer of insulation will force your heater to work harder to get the water to the right temperature, as the heat has to make its way through the sediment first.

As a result, your water heater will use much more electricity or gas, which is an expensive short-term problem. The overuse will also cause the heating element to wear out faster, which is an expensive long-term problem. Water treatment to eliminate these minerals is a solution to both.

A Slow Demise for Your Appliances and Fixtures

Not all of the minerals will sink to the bottom of your water heater. A good percentage will end up traveling through your pipes and fixtures, like your sinks and showerheads.

Most of the more obvious hard water damage to plumbing in Virginia homes is from this scale buildup you can see. But this issue isn’t just costly. It’s frankly annoying. Your showerhead’s water pressure will feel weaker than it used to, and it might take an unusually long time to run your dishwasher or do a load of laundry.

These may sound like minor inconveniences, but they add up to a considerable amount of lost time and money throughout the year. Eventually, those encrusted fixtures will become essentially useless, and you’ll be stuck paying a plumber to come out and install new ones.

Prevent Hard Water Damage to Plumbing in Virginia Homes With Aqua Clear

Clogged pipes and ruined appliances aren’t inevitable. You can protect the most vulnerable parts of your home with a customized water-treatment plan.

Contact Aqua Clear today to learn more about our services and schedule a visit from a skilled water-treatment expert.

How Hard Water Affects Your Plumbing System in Virginia Homes

Fri, 27 Feb 2026 10:47:49 GMT

How Hard Water Affects Your Plumbing System in Virginia Homes

Virginia’s natural beauty comes from many sources, including the mineral-rich soil. And while these minerals might be good for the local flora and fauna, they can wreak havoc on your plumbing system.

Many of them, like calcium and magnesium, cause hard water problems in Bedford, Virginia . If you’re a homeowner in the area who can’t quite get your dishes clean, it might be only a matter of time before you’re facing a plumbing repair bill. Here’s a closer look at how hard water impacts your plumbing system.

Diagnosing Hard Water Problems in Virginia

The signs of hard water are often everywhere. Fortunately, they also tend to show up long before more serious damage occurs. Keep an eye out for these signs:

White chalky film on plumbing fixtures that is hard to remove
Cloudy or spotty glassware
Dry, itchy skin after a shower
Graying laundry items

If you have one or more of these issues, you’ll want to consult with a specialist to confirm whether you have hard water problems in Virginia.

How Hard Water Affects Plumbing and Appliances

The minerals that cause hard water don’t just come out of your tap. Some of them stick to the inside of your pipes. This creates a hard buildup called scale.

Scale narrows the diameter of your pipes, which will restrict flow and increase pressure. It’s not healthy for any pipes to go through this much stress, but it's even worse for Virginia homeowners with older, galvanized steel pipes.

As for your appliances, hard water takes a toll on them, too, especially your water heater. The sediment forms a film at the bottom of the tank that acts as an insulator between the heat source and your water. This forces the water heater to work harder to get water to the desired temperature, causing energy bills to spike and making water heater breakdowns more likely.

Protect Your Home Today With Aqua Clear

Hard water doesn’t have to silently destroy your plumbing. With the right approach to water quality and maintenance, you can say goodbye to mineral and scale buildup.

The Aqua Clear team has served Southwest and Central Virginia homes since 1976. Contact us to schedule your appointment with a water treatment professional today.

Winter Water Heater Problems in Virginia

Sat, 24 Jan 2026 03:04:24 GMT

Winter Water Heater Problems in Virginia

It's not uncommon to experience winter water heater problems in Virginia. Malfunctions are more likely in winter because most homeowners rely on hot water more heavily through the colder months. In addition to prioritizing maintenance throughout the year, learning about common water heater issues can help you prepare for them.

Freezing Plumbing Pipes

Plumbing maintenance leads to more reliable water heater service. That's because a frozen pipe can prevent water from reaching your water heater.

This is an important issue to address since most homes have water heaters in basements and other cold, exposed areas. Your plumber can insulate the pipes in these places to reduce the risk of freezing.

Temperature Variations

It’s often possible to prevent winter water heater problems in Virginia by changing your thermostat's setting. If the water still doesn't get hot enough, there’s likely a more serious issue at hand. Your plumber will check the thermostat, pilot light, and fuel line to determine why your system isn't heating properly.

Reduced Water Pressure

You might notice a change in water pressure as you shower or use your kitchen sink. Throughout the year, sediment can build up in your water heater’s lines and connections. As the buildup thickens, it gradually blocks water from freely passing through the line, resulting in a slower flow and reduced water pressure.

You can prevent this issue by keeping up with annual maintenance. Your plumber can easily remove the sediment that builds up throughout the year by flushing the tank and cleaning the connections.

Anode Rod Failure

The anode rod in your water heater attracts the corrosive elements that could otherwise cause the tank to rust. As long as the rod remains in good condition, you won’t have to worry about rust or other elements contaminating your heated water.

If you notice the odor of rotten eggs or see discoloration in your hot water, however, contact your plumber. It might be time to replace the anode rod.

Don't Delay Repairs for Your Winter Water Heater Problems in Virginia

Aqua Clear provides comprehensive water heater care to meet your needs. Whether you need annual maintenance to prepare for winter or more specific repairs, we'll deliver speedy service you can trust. Contact us today to schedule service !

How Hard Water Affects Your Home in Winter (and What You Can Do)

Wed, 31 Dec 2025 00:27:01 GMT

How Hard Water Affects Your Home in Winter (and What You Can Do)

Winter is a tough time of year for homeowners. Many focus their attention on sealing windows and checking insulation, which often leaves water quality overlooked. Mineral-rich water is even more of a problem this time of year. But with a hard water treatment , winter weather doesn’t stand a chance against your pipes and skin.

How Hard Water Impacts Skin and Hair

The immediate tell of hard water woes is how you feel after a shower. Your personal care routine is already going up against the cold air and indoor heating system, both of which strip moisture from your skin. Hard water creates an additional problem. The minerals block pores, preventing much-needed moisture from nourishing your skin.

This residue leads to even more dryness, itchiness, and irritation. Hard water can also make your hair feel brittle and straw-like. It’s a hard time for hair and skin, but a hard water treatment winter plan can make all the difference.

How Hard Water Affects Plumbing and Appliances

Winter weather means water running through your pipes is colder than ever. This forces your water heater to work harder to reach the right temperature. If the water heater is covered in hard water buildup, it’s doing serious overtime, and stress that will inevitably cause higher energy bills and a shorter lifespan.

Reliable Hard Water Treatments Are the Answer

A whole-home water softener is one of the simplest and most cost-effective ways to eliminate hard water issues from your home. It’s useful for winter weather, but you’ll notice the benefits year-round. Less buildup means your plumbing and appliances, like dishwashers and washing machines, are operating at peak efficiency.

You should also contact your local water treatment professionals to test your water hardness, which can not only confirm the existence of these minerals but also give you a chance to hear from an expert about your options for softening your water.

Hard Water Treatment: Winter Preparation With Aqua Clear

Improve your home’s water quality before winter with the help of Aqua Clear. Contact our team today to learn more and schedule your appointment .

How Winter Weather Impacts Your Water Softener (and What You Can Do About It)

Wed, 26 Nov 2025 01:27:58 GMT

How Winter Weather Impacts Your Water Softener (and What You Can Do About It)

Winter can be a cozy time of year in Virginia, even when temperatures drop to their lowest. But just because it’s toasty in your living room doesn’t mean your water softener is protected. Here’s what you need to know about how to protect your water softener in winter weather.

What Happens to Your Water Softener During the Colder Months

Softeners are often placed in areas where temperatures fluctuate more frequently, such as garages or utility closets. This means your softener can be subjected to much lower temperatures than other equipment, which puts it at risk for a range of issues.

For example, water in the softener’s tank or pipes may freeze. The pressure that builds as a result can cause cracks or leaks, leading to costly damage to both the system and potentially your home.

How to Protect Your Water Softener in Winter in 3 Key Steps

Safeguarding your unit is easier than you think. Here are three crucial yet simple steps to winterize your water softener:

1. Insulate Vulnerable Areas

Insulating the space around your water softener is one of the best ways to protect it. Doing so also helps keep the rest of the space more comfortable and saves on energy expenses. If you don’t want to add insulation, you could always use a small temperature-controlled space heater near the unit instead.

2. Consider Using Bypass Mode

Homeowners often travel during winter, whether it’s for holidays or just to get away from the cold for a spell. Either way, you’ll want to take special precautions if you’re turning your heat down for a significant amount of time.

This might include turning your water softener on “bypass” mode and draining it. It’s a more involved step, but one that can help prevent it from freezing while you’re gone.

3. Prepare for Winter by Pre-Checking for Issues

Prevention is important for protecting appliances like your water softener. Do a quick visual inspection of your water softener. If you notice any issues with connections or see leaking, call a specialist for a fix.

Repairing issues as early as possible can help you avoid costlier problems down the line.

Schedule Your Winter Water Softener Inspection Now

Perhaps the best advice on how to protect your water softener in winter is to schedule an inspection from the pros. At Aqua Clear, we’ve provided premium water treatment and plumbing services to Southwest and Central Virginia homes since 1976. Contact our team today to schedule an appointment with one of our technicians.

How to Identify and Fix Hard Water Problems in Virginia

Mon, 27 Oct 2025 04:40:02 GMT

How to Identify and Fix Hard Water Problems in Virginia

Hard water is a common but often overlooked plumbing problem that many Virginia homeowners experience. While some don’t consider hard water to be a big deal, others are simply unaware of the potential issues until they cause damage. Thankfully, you can identify and fix hard water effects in Virginia.

Signs You Have Hard Water

Hard water is a term to describe water containing large amounts of mineral deposits, like calcium and magnesium. Signs that your water has an excess of these minerals can be found all over your home if you know where to look.

For example, you might find spotting or streaking on your dishes. Some homeowners might chalk with up to their detergent or dishwasher, but in many cases, it’s the residue left behind when water evaporates.

Developing skin and hair issues may be another sign. This can be more challenging to pinpoint, since you might be “used” to your water by now and can’t tell the difference between hard and soft water. But if you have dry skin or dull hair and haven’t changed anything recently about your hygiene regimen, this could mean you have hard water .

Hair and skin aren’t the only things looking duller if you don’t have soft water. Your clothes are affected by it, too. The minerals in hard water bind to the fibers, breaking down your clothes prematurely and causing them to look worn out.

The Permanent Solution: Water Softening

There are temporary fixes, like using extra dish soap to clear the spotting. However, the only permanent solution is a whole-house water softening system. This is the most comprehensive way to avoid hard water effects in Virginia.

Thorough professional water system testing is an excellent start to figuring out how to rid your home of hard water. A professional can assess your home’s current situation and help you choose the right size and type of system to suit your needs.

Tame Hard Water Effects in Virginia Today

If you have hard water problems , we have hard water solutions! Reach out to the team at Aqua Clear today to learn how we can transform the water you use and improve your quality of life!

Why Fall Is the Ideal Time to Check Your Virginia Water Filtration System

Tue, 30 Sep 2025 00:35:15 GMT

Why Fall Is the Ideal Time to Check Your Virginia Water Filtration System

Your water filtration system needs consistent maintenance just like any other system in your home. There are several reasons why fall is the best time to have this equipment inspected. Here are a few of the most common benefits of making fall a regular time to check and maintain your water filtration equipment.

Fall Brings More Contaminants

There's a greater need for well water maintenance in Virginia in the fall due to changing weather patterns. Windy weather may blow leaves, dirt, and other types of debris toward your water supply. In addition to clogging your filter, these contaminants can cause harmful bacteria to end up in your water.

The Ecosystem Will Change

Another environmental factor to consider is how the local ecosystem will affect the water table. Animal migration and the loss of plant life will affect the mineral content of the soil. This can lead to hard water issues if you don't prioritize well water maintenance in Virginia. A fall inspection could alert you to higher mineral content in the fall.

Your Household Will Use More Water

Inspecting your water filtration system will help you boost the water quality in your home. This is particularly important since homeowners generally use more water as the weather cools. An inspection will help ensure that everyone in your household is using clean, refreshing water for their hot beverages and food preparation.

Why You Should Practice Consistent Water Filtration Maintenance

Keeping up with any type of maintenance is a challenge without a set routine. By scheduling your water filtration inspection for every fall, you can create a routine that's easy to remember. If you pick a specific month and day, you can program reminders in your digital calendar, computer, or smartphone.

Steps like these can make it easy to stay on top of your regular water filtration maintenance .

Get Superior Well Water Maintenance in Virginia

When you partner with Aqua Clear, you can trust that your household will always have fresh, pure drinking water. Our industry-leading filtration equipment and supplies ensure that every drop of water is clean, refreshing, and crystal clear. Contact us today to schedule service!

End-of-Summer Water Filtration Tips for Virginia Homes

Tue, 26 Aug 2025 09:55:45 GMT

End-of-Summer Water Filtration Tips for Virginia Homes

If you’re in need of some summer water filtration tips in Virginia to help ensure you have clean water through the rest of the season, here’s what experts recommend you do to make the most of your system:

Summer Water Filtration Tips in Virginia That Just Make Sense

The number one thing every Virginia homeowner with a filtration system should do at the end of summer likely won’t come as a shock, but it’s far more important than you might think: Now is the best time to change your filters. They’re the bread and butter of your filtration system, after all, so you want to ensure they’re clean, especially after their heavy use during the summer.

It’s also a great time to check your system components. Look for any cracks or worn-out parts; you’ll want to fix or replace what you can as soon as possible to ensure your water stays clean and safe. You might as well clean and sanitize the components while you’re at it to prevent mold or bacterial growth, too.

If you aren’t quite sure how exactly to care for your system, that’s okay too; it’s what the professionals are for. Leaks or strange noises are almost always grounds for contacting your water filtration team. Getting in touch sooner will keep you from ending up with a bigger bill (or worse: water damage).

If there is one standout among the most important summer water filtration tips in Virginia, though, it’s to stay proactive. Don’t wait for problems to arise or systems to break down. Knowing when it's time for upgrades and maintenance is key; don’t hesitate to schedule appointments when you need them.

Going Beyond to Improve Your Water Quality

Unfortunately, Virginia’s water has contaminants that older systems aren’t always good at targeting, so if you don’t already, consider investing in a modern whole-home water filtration system. In the meantime, you can use a water quality test kit to see if there are any changes in your water chemistry.

You might also consider installing low-flow fixtures to make things easier for your filtration system. These help you use less water without disrupting daily life, effectively extending the lifespan of water filtration systems.

Have an Overworked Water System? Aqua Clear Can Help

The tail end of the summer season is the perfect time to give your filtration system some professional attention. Contact the team at Aqua Clear today and schedule your appointment for water filtration or plumbing services.

How Virginia Water Quality Changes During Summer Storm Season

Thu, 31 Jul 2025 23:46:30 GMT

How Virginia Water Quality Changes During Summer Storm Season

Summer in Virginia is synonymous with storms that intensify in the blink of an eye. And that heavy rain is often responsible for a wealth of problems, including degrading your water quality.

With that in mind, here’s how the weather can change the water you use every day, as well as what makes summer storm water filtration in Virginia so beneficial:

Water Treatment Gets Harder

You’ve likely heard of water being unsafe for swimming or boating right after a big storm; that’s because storm water carries with it a slew of bacteria and viruses from things like animal waste and overflowing septic systems. That can lead drinking water to become dangerously unhealthy.

Large cities aren’t exempt from such phenomena, either: Urban runoff means chemicals from oil and heavy metals from industrial sites can find their way into the water supply. And even if water treatment plants manage to filter out most of this, it gets much harder for them the heavier the rainfall.

The more rainfall that occurs, the higher the chances that it will strain infrastructures designed to filter the pollutants mentioned above out of water. That, in turn, not only makes it risky to swim around in, but also to drink or use around your home. Combine that with overflowing sewer lines, and water treatment plants are often overwhelmed trying to keep up.

Summer storm water filtration in Virginia is an excellent way to ensure that you always have clean drinking water, regardless of how your local government is handling the brunt of it. You’ll give yourself an extra layer of protection from these pollutants with a whole-home water filter.

Vulnerable Groups Become Even More Vulnerable

No one is safe from waterborne illnesses, but for some groups, these heavy storms can turn into a health emergency. If you have kids, older adults, or people with health problems living in your home, your city’s water filtration might not be enough to protect you all after larger storms.

Home water filtration, on the other hand, means you aren’t boiling water just to feel safe: You know you’re safe with secondary filtering.

Summer Storm Water Filtration in Virginia for a Healthier Life

Put your health back in your hands this summer with water filtration from Aqua Clear. Reach out to our team today to learn more about how our systems work and schedule your appointment with a water treatment specialist.

How Whole-House Water Filtration Enhances Your Home’s Water Quality Year-Round

Mon, 23 Jun 2025 01:29:32 GMT

How Whole-House Water Filtration Enhances Your Home’s Water Quality Year-Round

Clean water is a necessity. But the water coming out of your tap may not be as pure as you think. With that in mind, below are some key reasons why you should consider installing a whole-house water filtration system in Virginia.

Why Water Quality Matters

Think about how often you use water. It’s not just for drinking, after all; showering, gardening, cooking, and cleaning all require it, making it one of the most important resources in your home. But if any of that water carries chlorine, bacteria, lead, or sediment, you’re potentially exposing yourself to unhealthy levels of harmful materials every day.

A whole-house water filtration system in Virginia will clean your water before it reaches the tap, ensuring every faucet and appliance dispenses healthy, safe water whenever you use it. Many people can even taste the difference; filtering out chemicals makes your water fresh, drinkable, and smell-free.

Long-Term Perks of Improving Water Quality

Upon installing a whole-house water filtration system in Virginia, there’s the obvious, immediate benefit of always having crystal-clear drinking water, but that’s only just the beginning of what the system can do.

Hard water (that is, water carrying a lot of sediment and minerals) can do serious damage to your pipes over time, but your filtration system will help prevent scale buildup and corrosion, preventing you from having to call your plumber prematurely. The less wear and tear there is on your pipes, the more money you’ll save, too.

Cutting out contaminants from your drinking water isn’t just about taste, either; you’re lowering the chances of contracting waterborne illness. You’ll never have to second-guess what’s in your water ever again.

Convenience is arguably the most overlooked benefit, but also one of the best. You won’t need to have pitchers taking up prime real estate in your fridge or find yourself lugging in cases of bottled water from the store. Simply turning on your tap will get you good to go.

Upgrade Your Life With a Whole-House Water Filtration System in Virginia

Bring the best out in your home with a comprehensive water filtration system ! Contact the team at Aqua Clear today to kickstart the process and get clean, safe water all year round!

5 Signs You Need a Whole-Home Water Filtration System This Summer

Tue, 27 May 2025 02:52:07 GMT

5 Signs You Need a Whole-Home Water Filtration System This Summer

Access to quality, healthy water is always important. But the summer season, especially in a state like Virginia, highlights just how vital it is. Whether you’re washing veggies from the farmer’s market or taking a nice, cool shower, you deserve clean water.

To that end, here are five signs that mean you should consider whole-house water filtration in Virginia:

You Dislike Your Tap Water

Unpleasant flavors don’t always mean your water is dangerous, though they do indicate a higher amount of contaminants that, at best, impact the taste, and at worst, aren’t safe to ingest in large quantities. Whole-house water filtration in Virginia is one of the best ways to ensure crisp, refreshing water you actually want to drink.

Your Skin is Irritated

Poor quality water could be causing dry, itchy skin, and the reason is because chemicals, like chlorine, can enter the water system. Every time you shower, you’re exposing yourself to such an irritant, and your skin can’t catch a break.

Your skin may also be affected by hard water minerals, which cause scalp irritation and can make existing skin conditions even worse.

You Have Discolored Water

Discolored or cloudy water is a major red flag that signals the need for water filtration . Your water should run clear, no matter where you’re running it from. Some water discoloration can be temporary or a result of older pipes, but if it’s persistent, you need a water filtration system that removes these impurities and makes your water crystal clear again.

Your Water Smells Strange

Water doesn’t have a smell, so if you’re picking up on weird smells when you pour yourself a glass of water, that’s a good sign that something is in your water that shouldn’t be.

You Notice Stains and Buildup

Hard water isn’t just “hard” on your skin; it’s a nightmare for your plumbing, too, and it can reduce its efficiency or even cause permanent damage. If you notice white crusts forming around your faucets or showerheads, you’re dealing with hard water and need a water filtration system.

Whole-House Water Filtration in Virginia With Aqua Clear

The answer to clear and healthy water is unmistakable: Contact Aqua Clear today to learn more about whole-home water filtration and book an appointment with a specialist!

Why Your Virginia Tap Water Might Taste Bad (and What You Can Do About It This Spring)

Tue, 29 Apr 2025 02:00:01 GMT

Why Your Virginia Tap Water Might Taste Bad (and What You Can Do About It This Spring)

Bad-tasting water can quickly ruin a refreshingly cool sip and alter the flavor of food you’ve cooked. Luckily, there are several solutions you can try to resolve the issue. However, the most obvious solution is to schedule spring water filtration services in Virginia to remove bad tastes, odors, and contaminants from tap water.

What Causes Water to Change How It Tastes?

There are multiple reasons why your tap water's taste has changed, and it can vary based on how your water is sourced and treated.

Chlorine

Many public water systems add chlorine to kill viruses, bacteria, parasites, and other harmful pathogens before they enter your home. While this is for your safety, it can create a strong chemical smell or taste.

Metallic Taste

If your water has a metallic taste, it is a sign that it contains metals from your pipes or the public service lines. Many plumbing components are made from iron, copper, and lead. Water sits in these pipes overnight and may pick up more of the taste, especially if you have older plumbing.

Sulfur or Rotten Egg Smell

When water suddenly smells like rotten eggs, it has hydrogen sulfide. This gas can develop in water or pipes, creating an unpleasant sulfur-like odor and taste. Industrial waste and farm runoff can also cause sulfites to seep into your water sources.

Hard Water Minerals

Sometimes, your system collects high levels of calcium and magnesium. This is known as hard water, and while it doesn’t taste bad, it can create a chalky or slightly bitter flavor. Hard water also contributes to scale buildup on appliances and your plumbing.

Solutions for Your Bad-Tasting Tap Water

The first step to resolving your tap water issue is to schedule spring water filtration services in Virginia to remove bad tastes, odors, and contaminants from tap water. An expert will test your water supply to determine the cause of the changes in taste.

Once you know what is contaminating your water, the plumbing professionals will recommend the best way to correct the issue.

Expert Spring Water Filtration Services in Virginia to Remove Bad Tastes, Odors, and Contaminants From Tap Water

If your tap water doesn’t taste right, contact an experienced water treatment specialist. Aqua Clear is proud to serve southwest and central Virginia, and we’ll help you restore your water. Call us to schedule your service!

Spring Into Clean Water: How Aqua Clear Can Improve Your Home’s Water Quality

Mon, 31 Mar 2025 03:44:11 GMT

Spring Into Clean Water: How Aqua Clear Can Improve Your Home’s Water Quality

All of the water we use and consume is derived from regional freshwater tables. The problem, however, is that anything can contaminate these water sources, from natural minerals in the ground to decaying physical matter and bacteria. While municipal water treatment facilities remove most of these pollutants, they don't filter out everything.

Fortunately, there are plenty of steps you can take to improve your home's water quality , including the following:

Treat Hard Water With the EC5 Water Conditioning System

Use the EC5 Water Conditioning System to improve your home’s water quality with Aqua Clear in Virginia. Calcium and magnesium are major contributing factors when it comes to hard water, but our whole-home filtration system uses an ion exchange process to withdraw those minerals from your tap water altogether. An interactive display also provides real-time data about the process.

Reduce Chlorine Intake With the QRS Whole-House Water Filtration System

High levels of chlorine can affect the taste and smell of your tap water, and when consumed in excess, chlorinated water can also cause a variety of gastrointestinal problems. Thankfully, you can improve your home’s water quality with Aqua Clear in Virginia. Our QRS Whole-House Water Filtration System uses carbon filtering to remove excess chlorine from your water altogether.

Raise the pH Balance of Your Water With an Alkaline Filter

Just as excessive levels of calcium, magnesium, and potassium lead to poor water quality, low mineral content will also diminish the quality of your water by way of affecting its pH balance. An alkaline filter will restore it to a more natural range. In fact, alkaline water is growing in popularity as more people enjoy the increased hydration it provides.

Ultrefiner II to Improve Your Home’s Water Quality With Aqua Clear in Virginia

The Ultrefiner II system combines carbon filtration with reverse osmosis to maximize the purity of your water. In reverse osmosis, a semi-permeable screen filters contaminants out of the water, such as heavy metals, dissolved organic material, and harmful microbes. Like the EC5, it is a whole-home system that will ensure your family drinks pure and clean water every time.

Start Drinking Pure Water for Better Health

Aqua Clear specializes in offering residential and commercial water treatment options. We can install a variety of filtration and purification equipment that will ensure you have clean, fresh drinking water. Contact us to request a free estimate today!

Eliminating Forever Chemicals in Virginia’s Water: Why Reverse Osmosis Is the Ultimate Solution

Fri, 28 Feb 2025 11:01:44 GMT

Eliminating Forever Chemicals in Virginia’s Water: Why Reverse Osmosis Is the Ultimate Solution

Forever chemicals, or perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAs), are a significant concern for households throughout Virginia. Thankfully, for individual homeowners, reverse osmosis filtration systems can address the dangers they pose. Below is everything you need to know.

What Are Forever Chemicals?

Before discovering how reverse osmosis removes forever chemicals from drinking water in Virginia, it can help to learn more about these compounds.

PFAs have been given the moniker of “forever chemicals” because they don’t easily biodegrade. They are man-made substances that are highly resistant to heat, water, and oil. Manufacturers have used them in products ranging from carpets to food, and many companies have used these chemical compounds specifically because of their resilience.

Unfortunately, ingesting PFAs can lead to liver damage, thyroid disease, fertility problems, and several forms of cancer. Governments are starting to prohibit the use of these substances, but their presence in soil and water still poses significant problems.

How Reverse Osmosis Removes Forever Chemicals From Drinking Water in Virginia

The reverse osmosis process involves running water through a series of fine filters to remove contaminants. One filter consists of a semipermeable screen that catches heavy metals, such as lead, chromium, and mercury. It is also responsible for separating PFAs from the water. The water that exits the system is cleaner and free from such harmful contaminants.

Discover the Benefits of Reverse Osmosis

Understanding how reverse osmosis removes forever chemicals from drinking water in Virginia makes it easier to appreciate its benefits. For example, Good filtration helps prevent water flow issues. It also eliminates the presence of substances that affect the taste and odor of the water.

Additionally, reverse osmosis removes calcium, lime, and other substances that can build up on your faucets. The process also removes sodium; high sodium intake can cause liver disease, hypertension, and kidney problems.

Protect the Quality of Your Drinking Water

Aqua Clear provides a variety of solutions to produce higher-quality drinking water. We install water softener systems to address common hard water problems. In addition, we can install a reverse osmosis whole-house filtration system . If you're ready to improve your tap water quality, contact us to request a free estimate today.

Protecting Your Virginia Home From Forever Chemicals: How Reverse Osmosis Systems Provide Safe, Clean Water

Fri, 31 Jan 2025 01:09:22 GMT

Protecting Your Virginia Home From Forever Chemicals: How Reverse Osmosis Systems Provide Safe, Clean Water

If you’re relying on a carbon filter to make your water drinkable, it’s likely doing a good job of eliminating most contaminants. However, you can get better results by switching to a reverse osmosis system to remove forever chemicals in Virginia.

Studies from the National Sanitation Foundation, a water filter certification organization, show that activated carbon filters can remove up to 72% of so-called “forever chemicals,” while reverse osmosis can eliminate up to 100%.

What Are Forever Chemicals?

Forever chemicals are the common term for PFAs, or per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances. These chemicals don’t break down easily and can remain in the environment, water systems, and even in the human body for years.

Long-term exposure to high levels of PFAs has been linked to:

High cholesterol
Various cancers
Reduced vaccine response
Complications with pregnancy, including low birth weight
Immune issues
Problems with the liver, thyroid, and kidneys

Fortunately, PFAs have been removed from many products and utilities with rising awareness, so levels are dropping. Even so, the U.S. Geological Survey estimates that these chemicals are still present in 45% of American water systems.

How Does Reverse Osmosis Remove PFAs So Well?

The reason you should consider using a reverse osmosis system to remove forever chemicals in Virginia is that these systems rely on semi-permeable membranes capable of filtering out the smallest possible particles. Amazingly, reverse osmosis can catch contaminants that are as tiny as one atom.

Not only does this process successfully capture PFAs, but it also removes heavy metals like mercury and lead.

Many reverse osmosis systems use a two-stage filtration process that includes an activated carbon filter. These filters are excellent for improving the taste of water by removing chlorine, which can also give drinking water an unpleasant odor.

Call Aqua Clear for a Reverse Osmosis System to Remove Forever Chemicals in Virginia

You and your loved ones deserve clean, safe water. If you want the cleanest and safest you can get, Aqua Clear can install a high-performance reverse osmosis system in your home. Not only will your water be nearly completely free of PFAs, but it will taste fresher than you thought possible. Contact Aqua Clear today to schedule your installation.

How Winter Affects Your Water Heater: Preventative Tips for Roanoke Homeowners

Mon, 23 Dec 2024 01:47:02 GMT

How Winter Affects Your Water Heater: Preventative Tips for Roanoke Homeowners

Winter is officially setting in, and homeowners across the country are preparing their homes to take on the roughest of conditions. However, one part of the home that often goes overlooked in these anticipatory routines is its water heater. Since winter weather can affect your water heater’s performance, knowing how to prevent issues is essential.

Why Does Weather Matter for Water Heater Performance?

Frigid temperatures make your water heater work overtime. The water entering the heater will be colder, so more energy will be necessary to heat it to the proper temperature. That increased workload could lead to more wear and tear, reducing the lifespan of your unit and making malfunctions more likely. It’s even more challenging for it to keep up with your needs if your heater is in an uninsulated area, like a garage or basement.

Preventive Tips to Ensure Better Water Heater Maintenance in Roanoke, VA

With all of that in mind, here are some ways that regular water heater maintenance in Roanoke, VA, can help you keep your hot water flowing all winter long:

Insulate Your Water Heater

Water heaters often live in drafty or colder parts of your home. As such, something like a water heater insulation blanket can help it retain its heat so it works efficiently throughout the season.

Check Your Settings

Most professionals generally recommend setting your water heater to around 120 degrees Fahrenheit, but you might want to bump it up slightly higher during winter. Don’t set it too high, of course, as doing so can make using hot water too costly and potentially painful when washing your hands or showering.

Consider Professional Maintenance

Homeowners can perform basic upkeep tasks, but scheduling professional water heater maintenance in Roanoke, VA, is still highly recommended. Licensed technicians can spot things you might gloss over and perform repairs or adjustments to ensure your system is winter-ready

Warm Water When You Want It With Aqua Clear

Winter can be a hard time for your water heater, but with the right maintenance from a contractor like Aqua Clear, your system will be ready to endure any kind of weather. Reach out to us today to learn more about our preventive maintenance options.

Winter Water Quality: How Cold Weather Affects Your Home's Water Supply in Virginia

Fri, 22 Nov 2024 09:43:34 GMT

Winter Water Quality: How Cold Weather Affects Your Home's Water Supply in Virginia

Your home’s water supply is essential in just about every aspect of your daily life. Despite that, many homeowners are unfamiliar with the potential risks that threaten their water quality. In particular, they may not realize the seasonal issues surrounding winter water quality in Virginia, especially as the colder weather sets in.

Here’s what you need to know to protect your home’s water during the colder months of the year:

Watch Out for Frozen Pipes

Frozen pipes are an extreme hazard that can leave your home uninhabitable. Water expands when it freezes, so water trapped inside pipes can cause minor cracks to form over time. Left untreated for long enough, they can suddenly burst. Pipes near exterior walls are the most at risk, although modern plumbing solutions work to avoid that issue as early as the design stage.

Be Aware of Potential Grease Issues

Pouring grease down the drain is always a bad idea. Even if it seems perfectly fluid when hot, it quickly cools down, forming a solid lump. Done enough times, those lumps can build up in your pipes or even cause damage to municipal sewer systems down the line.

Grease is even more of a serious threat in winter. As the grease works its way through your sewer line, it will rapidly solidify due to the cold temperatures, likely leaving you to deal with a serious clog that may require extensive sewer line repairs to resolve.

Keep Your Water Heater in Working Order

Your home’s water heater is something you surely appreciate during the winter months. However, it can go down unexpectedly if you don’t pay attention. Watch for signs such as low water pressure, inconsistent temperatures, discolored water, and hissing noises from the tank. If you spot any of these signs, reach out for potential repairs.

Aqua Clear: Ensuring Winter Water Quality in Virginia

Whatever specific issues you might face regarding winter water quality in Virginia, the team at Aqua Clear can help. We provide a full range of plumbing and water quality services, so contact us today to schedule prompt service.

Why Every Virginia Home Needs a Water Softener: Benefits of Soft Water for Health and Home

Wed, 30 Oct 2024 08:50:53 GMT

Why Every Virginia Home Needs a Water Softener: Benefits of Soft Water for Health and Home

If you're like many people, you likely don't pay very much attention to the quality of your water. And even if you do have a hard water problem, you might assume there isn't anything you can do to solve it.

Fortunately, installing a water softener will take care of the issue in no time, allowing your family will enjoy all of the benefits of cleaner, fresh-tasting water, such as:

Healthy and Safe Drinking

When looking at the benefits of water softeners in Virginia homes, many people are happy to know that they can safely drink water from the tap. A water softening system removes the high concentration of minerals, heavy metals, and other contaminants, leaving you with clean water that's not only safe to drink but tastes great!

Protection for Your Major Appliances

Hard water leaves mineral deposits in the hoses, fixtures, and other components of your household appliances, from shower heads to laundry machines and dishwashers. One of the cost-saving benefits of water softeners in Virginia homes is that they reduce the buildup of these minerals, allowing the equipment to last longer.

Protection for Your Clothes As Well

You might have noticed that your clothes seem to wear out faster. Hard water could be causing that problem by exposing the clothing fibers to a higher amount of minerals. The minerals bond with the fibers, changing the molecular makeup of the material and leaving gray or white streaks in colored clothing.

The Ability to Restore Your Youthful Appearance

Showering or bathing with hard water will take its toll. The minerals in hard water absorb moisture, a process that will leave your skin feeling leathery and dry. Washing your hair in hard water will leave it stiff or brittle, too.

A water softening system eliminates these concerns, restoring the elasticity and youthful appearance of your skin and also making your hair feel soft and manageable once more.

Enjoy the Many Benefits of Water Softeners in Virginia Homes With Help From Aqua Clear

Aqua Clear provides water treatment services and equipment. Our services help homeowners enjoy clean and fresh water from every faucet. When you're ready to enjoy the advantages of purified tap water, contact us to request a free estimate .

Why Every Home in Central Virginia Needs a Water Filtration System

Wed, 04 Sep 2024 07:28:00 GMT

Why Every Home in Central Virginia Needs a Water Filtration System

It might surprise you to learn what chemicals may be in the water, particularly in the Roanoke River. PFAS, which stands for perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances, used to be found in Aqueous Film Forming Foam (commonly known as firefighting foam). This is important because such foam was used to douse the flames of an accident involving a runaway plane back in 1998.

Harsh Chemicals Still in the Water Supply

While this accident took place at NASA’s Wallops Flight Facility Visitor Center, PFAS showed up in the Spring Hollow reservoir and the water in South Fork. This accident, paired with possible contamination from the Ellison and ProChem treatment plants, means that chemicals still appear in Roanoke water sources.

Even with remote water filtration from the Western Virginia Water Authority, such issues highlight why home water filtration systems in Central Virginia have such value.

Hard Water

Putting aside harmful chemicals for a moment, Roanoke also experiences significantly harder water than anywhere else in Virginia. The average hardness in parts per million (PPM) in Chesapeake is 41. Head to Newport News, and this nearly doubles at 81 PPM. Leesburg hits triple digits at 125 PPM. Roanoke? An astounding 272.5 PPM, more than double what Leesburg sees.

What Water Filtration Does for You

Aside from the obvious benefit of removing dangerous chemicals from drinking water, home water filtration systems in Central Virginia are valuable for:

Extending your plumbing system’s lifespan
Making dishes and laundry cleaner
Making bath and shower water safer
Reducing dependence on bottled water

And, unlike using a single faucet filter or filtered pitcher, a whole-house system provides safe, fresh water from every tap.

Choose Aqua Clear Home Water Filtration Systems in Central Virginia

Aqua Clear provides comprehensive, effective water filtration systems , whether you want to focus on water hardness, excessive chlorine, or PFOA/PFOSs and other “forever chemicals.” To find out which system is the right one for you, contact Aqua Clear and discuss your particular needs and concerns. We’ll help you get the right system for peace of mind every time you turn on a faucet!

Understanding Water Hardness in Roanoke: Solutions for Your Home

Mon, 19 Aug 2024 07:00:30 GMT

Understanding Water Hardness in Roanoke: Solutions for Your Home

Depending on your specific water source, such as Carvins Cove or Beaverdam Creek/Falling Creek, you might have delightfully soft water. You may require minimal soap to wash up, and calcium buildups on your faucet are practically nonexistent. If your water comes from Crystal Spring or Spring Hollow, however, your water will range from moderately hard to very hard.

Fortunately, with a range of available water hardness solutions in Roanoke, VA, you don’t have to put up with high mineral content in your water. Here’s what you need to know about hard water in Roanoke and what you can do about it.

Signs of Hard Water

There are a few key signs that can tell you that you’re dealing with a hard water problem.

Water Usage Increase

You might think high mineral content would be more abrasive, but the opposite is true. The result is that hand washing and showering take longer.

Bad Tasting Water

Hard water can taste metallic and smell like burning sulfur. This is thanks to an abundance of iron and magnesium.

Irritated or Dry Skin

One of the most important reasons to seek water hardness solutions in Roanoke, VA, is the skin irritation it can cause. Mineral deposits can dry out your skin, leaving your skin feeling itchy and inflamed.

Fixtures With Stains, Scales, or Scum

With hard water, you’ll start to see brown stains on porcelain, scales, and sediment in appliances. This can include your dishwasher and washing machine. You’ll also find soap scum on faucets, clothes, and dishes. Such buildup can impact the longevity of your appliances and cause problems in your plumbing down the line.

Addressing Water Hardness in Your Home

There are many ways to combat hard water in your home. Some solutions are temporary, while others are designed to last.

Boiling your water or adding baking soda or vinegar to your bathwater can provide a temporary fix in a pinch. However, these solutions are temporary.

The most comprehensive solution is to add a water filtration system. That way, every faucet in the house will dispense soft water that feels and tastes great.

For example, a Rainsoft EC5 OxyTech Whole-House Water Filtration System can eliminate the vast majority of unwanted minerals and contaminants, such as hydrogen sulfide, iron, and manganese.

Call the Pros for Water Hardness Solutions in Roanoke, VA

Water softeners can extend the life of your appliances and improve your overall water quality. Call Aqua Clear to learn how a filtration system installed by our experienced team can seamlessly integrate into your plumbing system today.

The Essential Guide to Choosing the Right Water Filtration System in Roanoke, VA

Tue, 16 Jul 2024 07:17:48 GMT

The Essential Guide to Choosing the Right Water Filtration System in Roanoke, VA

Even though your city’s water treatment plant filters potable water before sending it to homes, it’s essential to install a whole-house filtration system on your property. There are several types of filtration systems, and each type removes mineral sediment, bacteria, and other unseen threats.

Your on-site filtration system removes contaminants from the water before it reaches the faucets in your home. The following guide will help you pick the best water filtration system for homes in Roanoke, VA.

Types of Water Filtration to Know

The type of filter you install may depend on your budget, the types of contaminants you want to filter, and other factors.

Mechanical Filters

A mechanical filtration process employs a physical filter that consists of nylon floss and synthetic foam. The barrier traps dirt, particles, and chemicals while allowing water to pass through the foam. This is the most basic type of water filter on the market.

Ion Exchange Filters

The benefit of an ion exchange filter is that it works as a water softener while removing unwanted chemicals and microorganisms. Tiny beads make up the ion exchange resin, which replaces harmful particles with sodium ions. This is the best water filtration system for homes in Roanoke, VA.

Activated Carbon Filters

An activated carbon filter processes water through a series of hooks and traps that separate pollutants and other unwanted particles from the water. Additionally, the charcoal granules remove the odor and taste that chemicals add to the water. The result is water that tastes fresh and clean.

Reverse Osmosis Filters

This system combines parts of the mechanical and activated carbon filtration systems. The process involves pressurizing the water and sending it through a fine membrane that traps particles. Since the process delivers water with fewer contaminants, it’s commonly used in kitchens.

Ultra Violet Filters

A UV filtration system sends water through an ultraviolet light to kill bacteria and other unseen parasites. The downside of this type of system is that it won’t affect solid particles. You may need a separate filter to remove physical contaminants.

Why Aqua Clear Offers the Best Water Filtration System for Homes in Roanoke, VA

Aqua Clear offers a variety of water filtration options to ensure your drinking water is safe. Water testing in the Roanoke, VA, area found levels of contaminants that exceed the accepted tolerances. Some of these contaminants include benzene, arsenic, and chromium. A high-quality Aqua Clear filtration system removes these contaminants.

If you’re ready to explore your water filtration options, the team at Aqua Clear can provide knowledgeable and informative insight. Get started when you contact us today .

Summer Plumbing Tips: Maintaining Your Home’s Water Systems in Roanoke, VA

Fri, 28 Jun 2024 07:11:56 GMT

Summer Plumbing Tips: Maintaining Your Home’s Water Systems in Roanoke, VA

The arrival of summer weather in Virginia brings with it a drive to live a more active lifestyle for most people. For you, that might involve getting more use out of your swimming pool, taking showers more frequently, and doing heavier loads of laundry. But all of these activities can put a significant strain on your home’s water system over time.

With that in mind, you’ll get more efficient use of your plumbing system and avoid costly repairs by following these summer plumbing maintenance tips for homes in Roanoke, VA:

Keep Your Drains Clear to Avoid Clogs

If you haven’t yet scheduled your annual professional drain cleaning, then perhaps the most important of our summer plumbing maintenance tips for homes in Roanoke, VA, is to do so! A plumber can clear the debris and gunk collecting in your plumbing pipes to ensure better flow.

In a similar sense, you’ll want to make sure strainers are covering all of the drains in your home so that items that shouldn’t go through your plumbing pipes are kept out.

Flush Your Water Heater

All storage tank water heaters need service every six months, and that includes flushing all of the water from the tank. While you can flush the tank yourself, you’ll still need a plumber to inspect for rust and damaged components. Spring and early summer are the best times to schedule these services, as they will prepare your unit for heavier summer use.

Check the Lawn Sprinkler System

Don’t forget your lawn’s sprinkler system, either! A damaged sprinkler head can lead to a waste of water and other plumbing issues. Watch for pooling water to detect underground leaks. If your sprinkler system doesn’t have a rain sensor, installing one will prevent unnecessary water usage during rain showers.

Start Scheduling Weekly Pool Maintenance

It’s not uncommon to suspend your swimming pool cleaning service during the colder months. But you must resume service as the weather starts to warm back up. In addition to keeping your pool’s water clean and fresh, regular pool maintenance will ensure it contains the right balance of chemicals. Routine service will help you catch malfunctions and damage early as well.

Trust the Plumbing Repair Pros

Last but not least on our list of summer plumbing maintenance tips for homes in Roanoke, VA, is to know that Aqua Clear is here for you! Our experienced and skilled plumbing team will deliver top-quality service, fixing any issue you have with your plumbing system throughout the summer. Contact us today to schedule service!