Did you know that 85% of homes have hard water? The elevated mineral content in hard water can clog water-using appliances like your faucets, dishwasher, and washing machine. Here’s a quick test to see if you have hard water at your house:

  1. Put about 1/2 cup of water in a bottle.
  2. Add 5-6 drops of liquid detergent, like dish soap.
  3. Screw cap back on and shake for at least 20-30 seconds.

If you have a lot of foam in your bottle, you don’t have hard water. If there’s little foam and the water is cloudy, then you most likely have hard water. You’ll want to take a water sample to a lab to have it tested to determine the exact mineral content. Then a water filtration professional in your area can help you come up with a solution.

Watch the video above to find out more.

Editorial Contributors
avatar for Joe Truini

Joe Truini

Radio Show Co-Host

Joe Truini is a contractor, author, and the host of “Simple Solutions” on Today’s Homeowner TV and the weekly Today’s Homeowner radio show. He has worked on both large commercial projects and residential remodeling, and has written for national publications such as This Old House and Popular Mechanics. He has also written eight books, including three best-selling shed-building books. Joe lives in Connecticut with his family and enjoys hiking, traveling, and baseball in his spare time.

Learn More