Bedrock & Bedrock Wells

Bedrock is a solid rock layer that can be found beneath soil and gravel. It can be composed of igneous, sedimentary, or metamorphic rock. In New England, we are no strangers to water wells, and in particular, bedrock water wells. With bedrock water wells, a hole is drilled into the ground, and the top part is then lined with steel casing. The steel casing is to prevent collapse of the walls of the well. Beneath the casing, water is able to enter the well. It is tested for yield. Yield is tested by professionals by determining how much of the water is being pulled through the surrounding rock and soil over a period of time.

Don't Drink The Water

We have all heard about the dangers of drinking unfiltered tap water, but is tap water really that unsafe? Tap water is composed of water from local bodies including rivers, lakes, and reservoirs as well as groundwater. Here are a handful of some of the things that may end up in your home's drinking water.

• Lead
• Copper
• Chlorine
• Arsenic 
• Germs
• Rocket Fuel
• E. Coli
• Salmonella 
• Radon 

So, can I interest anyone in a glass of rocket fuel? While this list may be alarming, you should be aware that you do have options. You can have your water tested and you can treat and filter your water. Click Here For Clean Water Solutions!

Water Softeners: The Solution To Hard Water

Hard water, as we discussed in our previous blog, is the result of water containing high levels of ions such as magnesium and calcium. Hard water creates problems for our dishware, pipes, and bodies. Water softeners help to combat this problem. Water softeners work by reducing the levels of magnesium and calcium that make the water hard. They do this through a process called ion exchange. Ion exchange uses sensitive plastic beads called resin. The magnesium and calcium ions are collected by the resin in exchange for another ion, such as sodium, which is then released. When the resin beads become filled with ions and are unable to perform properly, they go through a process called a regeneration cycle. This typically takes place during a time when little to no water is being used. During the regeneration cycle, magnesium and calcium are cleaned off of the beads with a salt brine. Water softeners are essential to keeping your water safe and clean. Regeneration is essential for keeping your water softener functioning properly.

Hard Water

Hard water refers to water that contains high levels of magnesium and calcium. Our water becomes hard when it travels through limestone, picking up the extra chemicals along the way. Hard water is common for those that get their water from a well, but is not exclusive to just those who use well water. Have you experienced water spots on your dishware, clogged pipes, dull hair, or dry skin. These could all be the result of hard water. You may also notice the presence of rust colored stains in your toilet and frequent soap scum in your shower and bathtub. Negatively effecting your hair and skin are not the only way that hard water impacts your daily shower routine. Hard water, due to the buildup of chemicals and potentially clogged drains, is also known to reduce your water pressure. Hard water can impact the smell and taste of your water. All of these reasons, and more, prove why water systems are a good idea.