nrh-plumbing-20260102145817

Do You Need A Water Softener In Minnesota?

Fri, 14 Aug 2026 09:54:32 GMT

Have you ever noticed white spots on your dishes? Maybe your soap doesn’t lather up, or

mineral buildup around your faucets that now catches your eye every time you use them. You

are certainly not alone. These are all signs of hard water, and in Minnesota, hard water is an

issue many homeowners deal with on a daily basis.

The good news is you don’t have to continue dealing with these issues.

The real question is; does every home in Minnesota need a water softener?

The true answer depends on your home's water quality, but for many homeowners, a water

softener is a great investment, perhaps one of the best you can make. Why? Because it

protects your plumbing, extends the life of your plumbing appliances and fixtures, and can even

make everyday cleaning easier.

Here is everything you need to know about hard water in Minnesota and whether or not a water

softener is right for your home.

What Is Hard Water?

Hard water contains higher levels of dissolved minerals, most commonly calcium and

magnesium. These minerals naturally enter the ground water as it passes through natural

underground rock like limestone and dolomite and other rock formations underground.

Hard water is safe to drink and is not considered a hazardous health risk. In truth, calcium and

magnesium are essential minerals for humans to intake. That said, while hard water is safe for

your family to consume, hard water can be incredibly tough on your home's plumbing systems

and household appliances.

Is Minnesota Known For Hard Water?

Yes.

The majority of the state of Minnesota has moderately hard to very hard water. Because the

municipal groundwater throughout the state flows between mineral rich social and rock,

homeowners often experience higher concentrations of these minerals in their water.

One might think the circumstance differs between city water versus private well water, but hard

water is very common throughout the Twin Cities metro area as well as much of central

Minnesota.

Some communities may have naturally softer water than others, but in most cases, many

homeowners will notice hard water problems without realizing what exactly is causing it.

Common Signs Your Have Hard Water

If you are not sure if your home has hard water, here are the most common signs.

White Spots on Dishes and Glassware

Those stubborn cloudy spots that remain after running the dishwasher time and time again

aren’t usually leftover soap. They’re mineral deposits left behind after water evaporates.

Soap Doesn’t Later Well

A notable indication that you have hard water is if it becomes more difficult for soap and

shampoo to create a thick lather. As a result, you may end up using much more soap than

necessary.

Dry Skin and Hair

If you notice your skin feels dry or itchy after showering…you probably have hard water.

Furthermore, hair may also feel dull or harder to manage because minerals prevent soaps from

rinsing away completely during your shower.

Mineral Buildup Around Fixtures

This can be recognized as a white, chalky residue around faucets, showerheads, and sinks.

This is one of the most classic and noticeable signs of hard water in your home.

Appliances Don’t Last Long

Let’s be honest, these aren't just appliances, they are investments. Water heaters, dishwashers,

washing machines, and even your countertop coffee makers all work harder when minerals

build up inside of them.

Reduced Water Pressure

Over time, mineral deposits can accumulate inside of your pipes and fixtures restricting the flow

of water.

How Hard Water Affects Your Plumbing

One of the biggest reasons homeowners install water softeners is to protect their plumbing

systems.

When you begin to think about how often water is flowing through your home, know that these

small minerals remain behind. Over several years of use, these minerals begin to collect inside

of pipes, fixtures, and plumbing appliances.

This buildup can lead to

- Reduced water flow

- Clogged showerheads

- Less efficient plumbing fixtures

- Increased wear on plumbing components

- More frequent plumbing repairs

While this buildup happens gradually, the long-term effects of unaddressed hard water can be

expensive to repair.

How Hard Water Effects Your Water Heater

Hard water can most definitely shorten the span of your water heater. In fact, it is the home

appliance most affected by hard water.

Minerals settle at the bottom of the tank where they will stay, and repeatedly be reheated. Over

time, this sediment builds up and creates an insulating layer between the burner and the water

that is intended to be heated.

This causes your water heater to:

- Use more energy

- Heat water much less efficiently

- Make strange popping or rumbling noises

- Wear out faster

- Require more maintenance or premature replacement

Adding a water softener to your home can significantly reduce mineral buildup in your water

heater, helping extend its lifespan and prevent unexpected costly repairs. Click here to learn

more about the signs of a failing water heater.

The Benefits of Installing a Water Softener

A good quality water softener that is well maintained offers benefits for your whole home.

Cleaner Dishes

No more cloudy glasses or white residue on your dishes, even after running them through the

dishwasher.

Softer Laundry

Clothing often feels softer, and stays brighter longer. Detergents also work more effectively with

softened water.

Easier Cleaning

Hard water often leaves behind soap scum and mineral buildup on showers, tubs, sinks and

faucets. These deposits can be hard to clean thus, soft water helps reduce this buildup, making

cleaning much easier.

Better Water heater Efficiency

Without mineral buildup, your water heater can operate more efficiently and may even last

longer in your home.

Longer Appliance Lifespan

Dishwashers, washing machines, humidifiers, coffee makers, and other water using appliances

all benefit from softened water.

Softer Skin and Hair

Many homeowners will notice softer skin, smoother hair, and less soap residue after switching to

softened water in their home.

Do homes on City Water Need a Water Softener?

Oftentimes, people assume only homes operating off of well service need water treatment.

In reality, many municipal city water systems throughout the state of Minnesota still supply hard

water. Although city water is treated for safety compliance, treatment does not necessarily

remove these minerals responsible for hard water.

The only way to know your home's water hardness is by testing it.

Luckily, NRH Plumbing, Inc. offers free, at-home water analysis test kits to all of their clients.

Simply fill a sample bottle, and send it in to the treatment facility for testing. The postage is paid

for, and there are no contracts, or binding documents to have this survey done by NRH

Plumbing.

Do Homes Serviced By Wells Need Softeners?

Well water often contains a higher mineral continent than city water.

In addition to hard water, well water may also contain:

- Iron

- Manganese

- Sulfur

- Sediment

- Other naturally occurring, and potentially harmful contaminants.

Due to every well being different, professional water testing is the best way to know exactly what

is in your water. Testing for these contaminants will help determine the best water treatment

systems for your home.

How Does a Water Softener Work?

A water softener removes calcium and magnesium through a process called ion exchange.

As the water flows through the softener's resin tank, the hard materials are exchanged for

sodium or potassium ions. This results in softened water throughout your entire home and your

plumbing systems.

The water softening system periodically regenerates by itself by flushing accumulated minerals

and recharging the resin with salt.

These days, modern water softeners are highly efficient and designed to only use the amount of

water and salt needed for regeneration.

Is a Water Softener Worth the Investment?

For many Minnesota homeowners…yes.

Although installing a water softener requires an up front investment upon install, it can help

reduce long-term and repeat costs by:

- Protecting your plumbing

- Extending appliance lifespan

- Improving water heater efficiency

- Reducing detergent and soap use

- Cutting down on cleaning time

- Helping prevent costly plumbing repairs caused by mineral buildup

Many homeowners find the long-term value and savings to outweigh the initial installation cost.

How Can You Tell If You Need A Water Softener?

The best and easiest way to tell is to get your homes water professionally tested

Water testing can determine:

- Water hardness

- Iron levels

- Mineral content

- Water quality

- Whether additional filtration beyond hardness is beneficial

Rather than guessing, a professional water analysis provides clear answers and helps ensure

you choose the right system, rather than installing systems that make unneeded correction.

Professional Water Softener Installation in Minnesota

If you are dealing with hard water in your home, installing the right water softener can improve

your home’s water quality while also protecting your plumbing investments.

At NRH Plumbing, Inc. we help homeowners throughout the greater Twin Cities area evaluate

their water quality and recommend solutions that fit their home’s needs. Whether you’re

experiencing hard water, looking to replace your current softener, or are interested in identifying

potential contaminants and assessing your home’s water quality, our experienced team of

professionals is here to help.

Nrh Plumbing, Inc. also offers free water analysis, making it easy to understand exactly what is

in your home’s water before deciding on a treatment plan.

Contact NRH Plumbing today to schedule your free water analysis appointment and learn more

about whether a water softener is the right solution for your Minnesota home.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hard water dangerous?

No. It is not necessarily harmful to drink, but overtime it can create problems for your plumbing

appliances and fixtures.

How long does a water softener last?

Most quality water softening systems last anywhere from 10 to 15 years. The lifespan of these

systems depends on your home’s water conditions, and maintenance of the system itself.

Will a water softer remove iron?

Some water softeners can remove small amounts of dissolved iron but most homes with higher

iron levels require additional filtration systems or specialized equipment.

How often do I need to add salt?

Usually homeowners will refill their softener tank with salt every four to eight weeks depending

on the households water use and size of the system.

Can I install a water softener myself?

We recommend professional installation to ensure the system is sized and connected correctly.

Furthermore, professional installation will ensure your system is code compliant and operating

efficiently from day one.

If you are unsure where to start when correcting your hard water, or are looking for a

professional to install a system in your home, call NRH Plumbing. Nrh serves the greater Twin

Cities area with expert knowledge, installation, and maintenance for all things water filtration.

To connect with NRH Plumbing, call: 612-900-7728 or visit our website at

Do You Need A Water Softener In Minnesota?

NHR plumbing is a family owned and operated residential and commercial plumbing contractor based in Ramsey, MN. We provide 24/7 emergency plumbing services, main line cleaning, as well as planned instillation including: water heaters, water softeners, water conditioners and plumbing fixtures.

10 Signs Your Water Heater Is Failing | NRH Plumbing

Wed, 05 Aug 2026 16:40:50 GMT

Learn the top 10 signs to recognize if your water heater is failing.Discover when repair or

replacement is necessary as well as frequently asked questions about water heaters and how to

handle different issues you might be experiencing.

10 Signs Your Water Heater Is About To Fail

There is never a good time for a water heater to give out on you. Losing hot water in your home

is much more disrupting than one may think. Minnesota winters and cold showers just do not

mix, and not knowing the signs of a failing system can lead to costly repairs and even

unexpected damage to your home.

Luckily, your home's water heater will show you the signs of failure before your system

completely stops working. The ability to recognize these symptoms may seem complex, but

stick with us. Detecting them early will help you avoid emergencies, protect your home, and help

extend the lifetime of your system for years to come.

Below are what we found to be the most common signs that your water heater may be

approaching the end of its life.

1. Your Water Heater Is 10-15 Years Old

The age of your water heater is the leading indicator of whether or not you're approaching a

system replacement or not. Traditional tank system water heaters last anywhere between 8-12

years, whereas well maintained models may last up to 15 years. Generally, tankless style water

heaters have the longest lifespan, but still require routine maintenance.

If you are reading this and said, “my unit is 10 years old and showing signs of wear” your most

cost effective plan may be to replace it rather than continuing to invest in repairs and small fixes.

2. Running Out Of Hot Water Faster Than Usual

Are your showers getting shorter? If your hot water is running lukewarm, or even cold sooner

than normal, this could be a tank capacity issue.

Sediment will naturally build inside of the tank of your water heater reducing its capacity over

time. Over time, natural minerals found in Minnesota’s hard water will settle into the bottom of

the tank. This sediment can become thick over time and forces the water heater to work harder

while having less room to store your hot water. Suddenly your 40 gallon water heater becomes

35 gallons, then 30, and so on.

This sediment buildup will not necessarily be detectable visually. You however may be surprised

when the tank is cut open after deinstallation to see the mountains of white calcified sediment

lying in them.

Here are the cliff notes of common signs that this is your issue:

- Hot water doesn’t last long.

- Water takes longer to heat up

- Family members competing for hot showers.

3. Discolored or Rust-Colored Water

Are you noticing brown or even rusty looking water coming from your hot water tap?

This can indicate two things that are happening inside of your water heater tank. The first is

corrosion, aka rust. This is a pretty straight forward indication of an aging system while factoring

in our earlier topic of the effects of sediment buildup. The second is deterioration of the anode

rod which is designed to protect your tank from this exact issue, but over time can fail.

If discoloration in your water appears only when running hot water, not cold, it could be a sign of

internal failure in your water heater.

4. Strange Noises Coming from The Tank

A well operating water heater should be relatively quiet, and unnoticed.

If you hear….

- Rumbling

- Banging

- Cracking

- Popping

Your water heater may be in trouble.

A partial diagnosis for this issue brings us all the way back to #2. These sounds can often be

caused by hardened sediment collecting at the bottom of your water heater tank.

Oftentimes, the settled sediment traps water beneath it causing the water to create noise as the

burner heats the tank. Over time, the cause of these strange noises will reduce efficiency and

cause additional stress on your water heater.

5. Water Around The Base Of The Water Heater

There is a small puddle near the bottom of your water heater….what should you do?

A leak like this may be caused by:

- Loose plumbing fittings

- A failing pressure relief valve

- Condensation

- A crack in the water heater tank

If the tank itself is leaking, replacing the system is usually the best, and safest option.

6. Inconsistent Water Temperature

If your shower ever suddenly runs cold, here is the issue.

Wavering water temperature often clues us in to failing heating elements, thermostat problems,

or internal tank issues.

While some repairs can be simple, the inconsistent temperatures can simply indicate that your

water heater is nearing the end of its service life.

7. Your Energy Bill is Increasing

As your water heater ages, it has to work much harder to produce the same amount of hot water

as when it was brand new.

If your efficiency is declining, you will probably notice:

- Longer tank recovery times

- More energy consumption

- Heightened utility bills

These inefficiencies will progressively get worse, so our best recommendation is to replace your

water heater. In this situation, upgrading to a high efficiency model (like a tankless model) would

significantly improve your hot water storage, energy consumption, and lower your utility bill.

8. Frequent Repairs

Every appliance in your home will eventually reach the point where repairs no longer will suffice,

or financially don’t make sense.

If you have made recent repairs or replacements to your water heater like; heating elements,

valves, thermostats, or other components and new issues continue to arise, it may be time to

invest in a new system all together.

9. Low Hot Water Pressure

This one is popular!

We have addressed mineral buildup several times in this blog making it one of the leading

causes of water heater failure. Mineral buildup can restrict overall water flow inside on the tank

and even further out to the plumbing connections.

If you notice your hot water pressure is lower than your cold water pressure, this could be a sign

of sediment or corrosion affecting your systems performance.

If you think this may be your issue, a professional inspection can determine whether the issue

can be repaired, or if a system replacement is needed.

10. Metallic or Rotten Egg Smell

If your hot water puts off a metallic or rotten egg odor…your water heater is giving you a

warning sign.

The rotten egg odor often indicates that bacteria is reacting with the anode rod inside of the

system, while a metallic odor points toward corrosion.

No matter how small, these issues should be addressed immediately by a professional to

determine the cause.

Why Do Minnesota Water Heaters Wear Out Faster?

A large number of homes throughout the Twin Cities experience hard water, which contains high

levels of dissolved minerals like calcium and magnesium.

Over time, these dissolved minerals collect inside of your water heater tank, eventually reducing

its efficiency and wearing down the internal components of the system. Regular maintenance is

a great way to prevent issues due to mineral buildup, as well as extend the life of your water

heater.

Should I Repair or Replace My Water Heater?

Not every issue with your water heater requires you to replace your system.

Minor issues such as a faulty thermostat, bad heating elements, or valves can more often than

not be repaired. It is worthy to note however, that replacement usually is a better long-term

investment if…

- Your water heater is more than 10 years old.

- The water heater tank itself is leaking

- Repairs become more and more frequent

- Rust or corrosion begins to appear

- You're experiencing multiple system issues at once.

A licensed plumber can help you prevent these issues from occurring, as well as maintain the

health and longevity of your system. Regular services and check ups to your water heater will in

turn reduce the likelihood of unexpected breakdowns.

My Water Heater Needs To Be replaced:

Does your water heater need replacement?

If your water heater is showing any of these warning signs, it is time to replace your system

before you are left without hot water.

The experienced team at NRH Plumbing provides professional water heater inspections,

repairs, maintenance, and replacement services for residential homeowners, as well as

commercial businesses throughout the greater Twin Cities area. NRH Plumbing will evaluate

your current system in your home, give you several options for replacement, and help you

choose the right water heater for your home and budget.

Contact NRH Plumbing today to schedule your water heater inspections! Don’t go a day

without hot water in your home. 612-900-7728

Frequently Asked Questions:

How long should a residential home water heater last?

Most residential tank water heaters last between 8 and 12 years. Tankless systems can often

last 20 years or more while proper maintenance is maintained.

Can I still use my water heater if it is leaking?

If you are observing an active leak from your water heater tank, it is best to turn off your hot

water supply and contact NRH Plumbing as soon as possible. Continuing to use a leaking tank

can result in significant water damage to your home.

Pro Tip: All water shut-offs in your home should be labeled throughout your home. When you

run into issues such as leaks, you don’t have to scramble and guess which one needs to be

turned off. When receiving service from NRH Plumbing, technicians will automatically label your

shut-offs for you ensuring you are well prepared if an emergency were to arrive.

Should I repair or replace my old water heater?

If your water heater is at the end of its lifespan, and is experiencing need for frequent repairs,

replacement is more often than not the most cost-effective solution for your home.

How can I make my water heater last longer?

Conducting annual maintenance such as flushing sediment from the tank, replacing the internal

anode rod, and addressing small issues and concerns early can significantly extend the life of

your system. A professional plumber is able to complete these services and help you increase

the lifespan of your water heater

10 Signs Your Water Heater Is Failing | NRH Plumbing

NHR plumbing is a family owned and operated residential and commercial plumbing contractor based in Ramsey and Elk River, MN. We provide 24/7 emergency plumbing services, main line cleaning, as well as planned instillation including: water heaters, water softeners, water conditioners and plumbing fixtures.

Best Water Filtration Systems for Well Water

Fri, 17 Jul 2026 09:51:59 GMT

For homes with high nitrate levels: NitraMAX Nitrate Removal

Please note: in order to find the right filtration system for your home, you need to first test your water. Not all well water is going to contain the same contaminates, and even homes drawing on the same well water might not have the same contaminants. There are a lot of factors that determine what you might find in your water.

If you are interested in learning more about what you may have in your water, please contact our office for a free water test kit. With that information we are able to help you determine if you need a water filtration system and what type of system will work best for your home.

This list is intended to give you a jumping-off point in your research. These are some of the water filtration systems that we recommend from Water Control Corporation, based on your needs:

Well, well, well…it’s time to talk about well water. It’s what many of us in Ramsey rely on for our home water supply, and continues to be one of the most common sources of water in Minnesota no matter the city you’re in.

However with well water comes a lot of natural contaminants, sediments and other undesirables that can change the way your water tastes, performs, and even looks.

Today we’re going to recommend some water filtration systems from our friends at Water Control Corporation that are ideal for well water users. These filtration systems help remove contaminants from your water to provide cleaner, fresher-tasting water straight from the tap.

Iron, manganese, and hydrogen sulfide gas are problem elements often found in private well systems. BrassMaster Plus MEGAbite Iron Filters use oxygen injection to remove damaging minerals and unpleasant odors in a natural, effective, environmentally friendly manner.

Effective treatment of:

Ferrous and Ferric Iron
Hydrogen Sulfide Gas (sulfur/rotten egg smell)
Manganese

Get More Info

Nitrates are a worrisome contaminant, often found in well water sources. Usually the result of agricultural pollution (from fertilizers and animal waste), they can lead to serious health conditions, including “Blue Baby Syndrome” (whereby infants are unable to absorb adequate levels of oxygen into their bloodstreams) and cancer. The USEPA has set the Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL) for nitrate at 10 parts-per-million [10 mg/L]. BrassMaster Plus NitraMAX Nitrate Removal systems effectively reduce nitrate to levels below 10 PPM, making water safe for human consumption. Standard models incorporate additional water softening media for the reduction of hardness. NitraMAX units are also available without softening media for those homes that already enjoy soft water.

Get More Info

Best Water Filtration Systems for Well Water

Arsenic is Number 33 in the Periodic Table of Elements. It is a naturally occurring carcinogen found in drinking water supplies all across North America. Long term exposure to arsenic has been proven to cause serious disease, including cancer. For this reason, the USEPA has set a very stringent Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL) of 10 parts-per-billion (10μg/L) of arsenic in potable water. BrassMaster Plus Element33 Arsenic Removal treatment systems effectively reduce arsenic to low or non-detectable levels, making water safe for human consumption. They also remove low levels of other nuisance contaminants, including iron, manganese, and hydrogen sulfide (sulfur/rotten egg smell).

Get More Info

We install and service a wide array of water filters , including the ones on this list. Reach out to us to find the right water conditioner for your home.

For homes with high iron levels: BrassMaster Plus MEGAbite Iron Filters

Best Water Filtration Systems for Well Water

For homes with arsenic or Iron: Element33 Arsenic Removal + Iron/Manganese/Hydrogen Sulfide

3 Plumbing Upgrades to Make Before You Sell Your Home

Mon, 15 Jun 2026 09:48:22 GMT

1. Clean and Repair your Drains

If you are selling your home, you want to make your home the most appealing you can to potential buyers. Making upgrades to your home is essential to make sure you are getting the most bang for your buck.

One of the best ways to increase your property’s value is to upgrade your plumbing. We know it sounds a little daunting, but upgrading your plumbing will help out with your home’s value both practically and visually.

Here are 3 plumbing upgrades you should make before you sell your home:

Upgrading appliances like water heaters, water softeners, and water conditioners is a great way to add more value, and it will give the homebuyer less to worry about. Homebuyers have a preference for appliances that work efficiently and will not need to be replaced shortly after buying the house.

Outdated water conditioners and water softeners can also cause problems in your water that are costly, so eliminating these problems before they start is a good idea.

Additionally, newer water heaters are designed to help with water and energy conservation. This will save you or future homebuyers more money each year on the water bill.

Updated appliances are a luxury when buying a new property. Homebuyers will be willing to pay more for what they get with the home. In short, the less they have to worry about in maintenance will mean more money for you when selling.

The home-selling process can be difficult, but you can make it easier on yourself by upgrading your plumbing. It’s a win-win situation, it will not only increase your home’s value but will also save your homebuyer time and money!

We install and service a wide array of water conditioners and home plumbing services. Reach out to us to take care of your plumbing needs at home.

When selling your home, you want to upgrade for function and for looks. Updating faucets and sinks is a nice way to make your home more aesthetically pleasing while also increasing the functionality. Leaky faucets can waste hundreds of gallons of water per week, costing the homeowner hundreds every year.

Fixtures vary in styles and materials. A good starting point for updating your fixtures is figuring out what material you would like to use. Depending on your home, you can choose a variety of options such as copper, gold, bronze, brass, stainless steel, etc.

An important thing to keep in mind when choosing your material is if it will work well with your home. For example, brass, nickel and bronze are all resilient materials that stand up to frequent use. Zinc and stainless steel are cheaper alternatives, but they may start to rust or stain quickly.

Making sure your faucets and sinks are updated will give you one less plumbing problem to worry about and will also give your home style points.

3 Plumbing Upgrades to Make Before You Sell Your Home

Clogged drains are a pain. They will not only cause problems for you, but for your future homebuyer. It’s pretty easy to take your drains for granted, because it’s one of those things that when they are broken or running slowly, you notice. Fixing plumbing problems will prevent clogs and leaks that lead to flooding and extensive water damage.

Check your drains to see if they need to be cleaned out and make sure that you take note of any drains that are running slowly or clogged. If your drains are running sluggishly, you might have a problem to take care of and it’s time to call a plumber.

Drain cleaning and maintenance are essential for anyone looking to sell their home. So making sure that your drains are sorted and updated out before you put your property on the market could save you lots of money down the road!

3. Replace Old Appliances

2. Update Fixtures

How Do You Purify Well Water?

Mon, 25 May 2026 09:45:24 GMT

How Do You Purify Well Water?

The use of a water conditioner will help you in a few different ways such as:

Improving your overall health

Improving the health of your plumbing system by reducing scale buildup

Reducing effects of hard water

Making water safe to drink and irrigate plants

Carbon filters

Reverse Osmosis (RO Systems)

Softener filter combinations

Not only will water conditioners help you in these ways, but they will also give you peace of mind when it comes to your water at home. It can also help make your water taste better, and who doesn’t love water that tastes good?

We install and service a wide array of water conditioners. Reach out to us to find the right water conditioner for your home.

A water conditioning system remove sediments and chemicals like chlorine from the water. By removing these chemicals as well as scale buildup, water conditioners reduce the effect of the hard water and improve your overall health.

➙ Read now: The Best Water Filtration Systems for Well Water

First, it’s important to define a few terms and clear up some misconceptions.

Well water does not NEED to be purified. “Purification” refers to removing harmful contaminates, sustpended debris, and biological waste from water – the most common example is purifying standing water from a lake or pond to make it drinkable while camping. In that case, you’re actively filtering out large contaminates like dirt, bacteria, or debris to make water safe to drink.

➙ A vast majority of water from public sources will not require any purification whatsoever. And if it does, you’ll certainly hear about it in the news!

However, that doesn’t mean that just because your well water is safe to drink that it’s automatically “clear.” When people want purified home water, more often than not they’re looking for water that will:

Not have a distinct taste or smell
Not leave stains or spots
Look clear, even when left standing overnight

It’s easy to confuse this process for “purifying” water, although strictly speaking, those are not the same process. Well water can still contain contaminates like iron, arsenic, or nitrates. The process of removing them is called water filtration or water conditioning.

The best way to remove these contaminates is through a water conditioning system.

How Can You Benefit from a Water Conditioner?

What is a Water Conditioning System?

Water is one of the most valuable resources in your home. Whether you need it for cleaning, cooking, or drinking. We all need clean water to nourish our thirst and safely cook and clean, so how can we make sure the water we are using is safe and high-quality?

Many homeowners are concerned with purifying their well water to make it safe.

How Do You Purify Well Water?

Best Water Filtration Systems for City Water

Mon, 20 Apr 2026 09:21:16 GMT

For many homeowners, they dislike the taste, smell or color that sometimes comes with city water. Even when the water is perfectly safe to drink, that doesn’t mean that it won’t still have a specific taste, leave a residue or look cloudy.

For those homeowners, we strongly recommend a water filtration system to help keep water clear.

Best Water Filtration Systems for City Water

Please note: in order to find the right filtration system for your home, you need to first test your water. Not all city water is going to contain the same contaminates, and even homes in the same city not have the same contaminants. There are a lot of factors that determine what you might find in your water.

This list is intended to give you a jumping-off point in your research. These are some of the water filtration systems for city water that we recommend from Water Control Corporation, based on your needs:

For homes with high nitrate levels: NitraMAX Nitrate Removal

Chlorine and / or Chloramines are commonly used as additives in public water systems. The BrassMaster Plus MultiMAX LS water filtration system removes these undesirable additives. The result is clean, irritation-free water for your entire home.

Chlorine and chloramines are commonly used to disinfect city water systems and provide safe drinking water to end users. However, once inside homes and businesses, these chemicals can cause unintended problems. Excess chlorine can lead to taste and odor issues, as well as skin irritation. The effects of chloramines (a mixture of chlorine and ammonia) are much less known; but beyond taste and odor issues, they have been attributed to skin rashes, digestive issues, the leaching of heavy metals like copper & lead, and the failure of rubber products in plumbing systems*. The MultiMax LS removes these chemical additives. The result is clean, safe, great-tasting, irritation-free water. This automatic system relies on specialized media. It regenerates every few days with water and air (requiring no additional salt or chemicals).

Effective treatment of:

Chlorine & Chloramines
Taste & Odor Issues

Get More Info

Best Water Filtration Systems for City Water

For homes with high chlorine or chloramines: BrassMaster Plus MultiMAX LS

Get More Info

We install and service a wide array of water filters, including the ones on this list. Reach out to us to find the right water conditioner for your home.

For homes with arsenic or Iron: Element33 Arsenic Removal + Iron/Manganese/Hydrogen Sulfide

What Are the Signs of a Burst Pipe?

Mon, 23 Mar 2026 09:16:26 GMT

What Are the Signs of a Burst Pipe?

If you notice your water bill increasing despite no change to your water usage habits, then you might have sprung a leak or burst pipe . A common place for a leak to be is your toilet, so you should check to make sure that there aren’t any obvious leaks first before assuming a burst pipe.

Do the pipes in your home ever cross your mind? It’s pretty easy to forget about them, and the only time you really notice them is when there is a problem.

Burst or leaking pipes can occur year round, and they can be very costly. If you’re in the Midwest, the most common type of problem is freezing weather, but rust and poor installation can also cause a pipe to burst.

Here are some signs to watch for that could indicate a leaking or burst pipe, so you can get the problem fixed before it becomes and a costlier problem.

When pipes burst in the ground, water, dirt, and other contaminants can get into your water.

Burst pipes can also develop rust over time, turning your water brown and making it smell foul. Rusted pipes are also a breeding ground for bacteria, which can cause health problems for your or your family if not treated.

If you notice an odor change or discoloration in your water, that could be a sign of a burst pipe.

What Are the Signs of a Burst Pipe?

Pipe bursts can result in a decreased amount of water coming through your pipes. If you notice any changes in how much water is coming out of your faucets or showerheads, you may have a burst pipe.

Contact a plumber to determine the source of the change in your water pressure.

Bad Odor

Changes in Water Pressure

High Water Bills

Clanging or Dripping Noises

There’s a number of reasons for noisy pipes or dripping noises. A change in water pressure can cause a sudden closing of the valve which can make your tap emit whistling noises or a hammering sound.

Other causes can be mineral deposits, faulty tap washers, or even scale build-up. If you hear any funny noises coming from your walls that is unusual, it’s probably time to call the plumber. Especially if you hear these noises when you’re not using your sink, tub or toilet.

Water Marks

Since most pipes run behind walls, you may see water marks on your wall or ceiling due to a burst pipe.

If you notice a sudden mark appearing, you should have a plumber look at it before you take any action yourself.

Pipe bursts are a common problem in households everywhere. Take note of anything that may not seem normal when it comes to your plumbing is helpful for avoiding more problems down the line.

We offer a wide array of services for your plumbing needs. Reach out to us if you have any problems with your pipes or plumbing.

Can City Water Be Hard?

Fri, 20 Feb 2026 09:11:25 GMT

Can City Water Be Hard?

Do you notice white, chalky residue or spots on your dishes in your dishwasher? Clothes and linens that feel rough and look dull? Dry skin and flat hair? These are all possible signs of hard water.

What is Hard Water?

Hard water is a natural result of minerals like magnesium and calcium accumulating during the water cycle. The more the minerals accumulate, the harder the water becomes.

We’re not saying hard water isn’t safe - because it is - you can drink and wash with hard water. But depending on the level of hardness, you’ll find that it can lead to plumbing problems down the line. Some of these costly problems include:

Stains in your sinks and tubs
Cost of replacing linens and clothes affected by hard water
Higher utility and water bills because your appliances work harder

Beyond that, it can just be unpleasant to drink or irritate your skin and hair. While hard water is safe, that doesn’t mean it’s ideal.

Can City Water Be Hard?

Absolutely! Cities will filter water to ensure it’s safe to drink, but since hardness isn’t a public safety issue it’s usually left unresolved.

Additionally, your home’s plumbing can increase the hardness of water, especially if your pipes are older. This is unavoidable without addressing the cause.

How Do You Determine How Hard Water is?

The hardness of your water is measured in GPG (grains per gallon), and hardness varies throughout the different parts of the United States. Most Americans have hard water, but the level of hardness differs by state.

According to HomeWater101, 85% of Americans have hard water. The following map provided shows how hard the water is in each part of the United States.

What Can You Do About Hard Water?

Millions of Americans use Water Softeners to combat the problems that come with hard water. Having a water softener has many benefits, they’ll remove the calcium and magnesium and replace them with softer minerals like potassium and sodium.

Water softeners provide other key benefits like:

Water-using appliances last longer
Laundry is cleaner with reduced fading and fabric wear
Dishes and glassware look cleaner and brighter
Skin and hair washed in softened water looks and feels better
Soft water maintains energy efficiency

NRH Plumbing services and maintains all makes and models of water softeners. Ensuring that your water is softened will help you in maintaining low-cost utility and water bills, cleaner dishes and clothes, and overall better health of your home and your family.

Need help finding Water Softener for your home? Contact us to help you decide what Water Softener will meet your budget and needs!

Running Water Sound in Bathroom Wall: What does it mean?

Wed, 21 Jan 2026 09:04:54 GMT

Running Water Sound in Bathroom Wall: What does it mean?

Hearing a dripping sound behind a bathroom wall can be a nerve-wracking and confusing experience. Several factors can attribute to this sound, and not all of them are serious. However, most of them should be addressed through a professional plumber.

One of the main reasons you might hear a dripping sound is simply because a faucet is running. If this is the case, the dripping noise will stop shortly afterward. We still recommend getting this looked at by a plumber because it could mean there’s a leak somewhere in the pipe. This is one of those things that isn’t a problem now, but could become a huge problem later.

Cause: running faucet

Cause: clogged pipes

Another reason why you might hear a dripping sound behind your wall is when pipes are becoming clogged. Clear drains usually allow quick passage of water, resulting in dripping water sounds stopping sooner.

With partially blocked pipes, you might hear that dripping sound more persistently, because it’s taking longer for that water to get through. You can use solutions like baking soda or vinegar to try to unblock the pipes. If the dripping sound doesn’t go away, it might be time to call a plumber.

If you notice any water collection or pools of water near the walls, any discoloration of the walls or floors, different textures being formed on your walls, or even any mildew or mold formation, these factors can be key identifiers of a water leak within your walls.

Water leaks can cause bigger problems down the line, and in turn, create a leak in your pocket. Ensuring that you’re taking the necessary precautions when you hear a dripping sound in your bathroom walls is crucial in saving money in your pocket.

If problems persist, you should reach out to your local plumber to see how you can fix any outstanding problems with dripping sounds within your walls.

If you don’t take the necessary precautions when you hear these sounds, you could find yourself in a position of water leaks behind your wall.

Do you need more help when it comes to your bathroom plumbing ? Reach out to us to see how you can save more money and be proactive in your plumbing so it doesn’t cause more and more problems down the line.

NHR plumbing is a family-owned and operated residential and commercial plumbing contractor based in Ramsey, MN. We provide 24/7 emergency plumbing services, mainline cleaning, as well as planned installation including: water heaters, water softeners, water conditioners, and plumbing fixtures.

nrh-plumbing-20260102145817

Do You Need A Water Softener In Minnesota?

Do You Need A Water Softener In Minnesota?

10 Signs Your Water Heater Is Failing | NRH Plumbing

10 Signs Your Water Heater Is Failing | NRH Plumbing

Best Water Filtration Systems for Well Water

For homes with high nitrate levels: NitraMAX Nitrate Removal

Best Water Filtration Systems for Well Water

For homes with high iron levels: BrassMaster Plus MEGAbite Iron Filters

Best Water Filtration Systems for Well Water

For homes with arsenic or Iron: Element33 Arsenic Removal + Iron/Manganese/Hydrogen Sulfide

3 Plumbing Upgrades to Make Before You Sell Your Home

1. Clean and Repair your Drains

3 Plumbing Upgrades to Make Before You Sell Your Home

3. Replace Old Appliances

2. Update Fixtures

How Do You Purify Well Water?

How Do You Purify Well Water?

How Can You Benefit from a Water Conditioner?

What is a Water Conditioning System?

How Do You Purify Well Water?

Best Water Filtration Systems for City Water

Best Water Filtration Systems for City Water

For homes with high nitrate levels: NitraMAX Nitrate Removal

Best Water Filtration Systems for City Water

For homes with high chlorine or chloramines: BrassMaster Plus MultiMAX LS

For homes with arsenic or Iron: Element33 Arsenic Removal + Iron/Manganese/Hydrogen Sulfide

What Are the Signs of a Burst Pipe?

What Are the Signs of a Burst Pipe?

What Are the Signs of a Burst Pipe?

Bad Odor

Changes in Water Pressure

High Water Bills

Clanging or Dripping Noises

Water Marks

Can City Water Be Hard?

Can City Water Be Hard?

What is Hard Water?

Can City Water Be Hard?

What Can You Do About Hard Water?

Running Water Sound in Bathroom Wall: What does it mean?

Running Water Sound in Bathroom Wall: What does it mean?

Cause: running faucet

Cause: clogged pipes

Signs of a larger problem