Entries by Tim Hiller

Drinking Soft Water

When you soften water using a water softener, does the sodium level increase in my water?  Is it safe to drink soft water?  Will my water taste salty from using salt and a water softener?  How much salt is added to my water using a water softener?  These questions are presented to our staff when […]

Lead in Drinking Water

Exposure to lead in drinking water has been an evolving topic with its heightened awareness.  Many people know there are related health issues with lead, which causes concern.  Lead in drinking water seldom occurs from dissolved rock as water travels through the earth’s crust, like other elements.  Instead, it enters drinking water due to corrosion […]

Arsenic in Water

Arsenic is a naturally occurring element within the earth, and when it comes in contact with water, it dissolves naturally into the water.  It is found in deep bedrock formations and shallow glacial materials in Illinois.  If not properly tested and resolved, arsenic can be harmful to the human body.

What is Hydrogen Sulfide?

Have you ever turned on your faucet, and a rotten egg smell is so strong you have to plug your nose?  It can happen.  Known as hydrogen sulfide, it will make anyone not want to turn their faucet back on.  Unfortunately, this gas is colorless, and the good news is we dissect this odor and […]

What is Iron in Water?

Water will dissolve anything it comes in contact with over time.  It’s the universal solvent.  Iron is the mineral that stains our clothes, toilet, shower, and bathtub.  Even high amounts will turn our hair orange.  Iron is not pleasant and does not clean up well.  It can be one of the most troubling and unstable […]

What is Chloramine in Water?

If you are on city water, your water is treated with a disinfectant.  It is common for municipalities to use chlorine, which is what homeowners will smell when they turn on their faucets.  However, some cities are using chloramines.  What are they?  Why are they being used?

What is Tannin in Water?

Have you ever turned on your bathtub, and the water is yellow?  It looks gross.  Your first thought is your water is rusty, but is it?  Could it be tannin in the water?  Tannins are not typical in our area, but there are specific pockets where tannins have been found.

Are Salt Free Systems Worth It?

Salt-Free water systems.  We receive many inquiries about these systems and homeowners wanting our company to install them in their homes.  These systems seem convenient, easier to maintain, and environmentally friendly, but do they work?  Do they actually remove hardness or iron in the water?  Do they provide the same benefits as a water softener?

Soft Water vs. Hard Water

Would you rather have water that will make your skin feel soft and smooth or dry and itchy? Of course, most people would choose soft and smooth. But unfortunately, all do not experience the soft and silky feel because  85% of the water in the United States is hard water.  Even when homes are supplied […]

Iron Bacteria in Water

Not all iron is the same. Many homes on well water in Northeastern Illinois are subjected to different types of iron, such as ferrous iron, ferric iron, and iron bacteria. Many people are familiar with ferrous and ferric iron because it will stain clothes and water fixtures. Both ferric and ferrous iron in your water […]