Petersheim Brothers tests, and treats for, most common water problems so that you can have the best quality water possible. Each problem has a specific water treatment that will alleviate it. Here are a few of the most common water problems we encounter in Pennsylvania- and some options for water treatment!
Calcium hard water
Calcium hard water is a common problem in southeast Pennsylvania.
Water described as “hard” is:
- high in dissolved minerals, specifically calcium and magnesium
- a nuisance because of mineral buildup on plumbing fixtures and in water heaters
- causes poor soap and detergent performance in appliances
- can cause hair or skin problems from the mineral residue left on you after showering
How to treat hard water:
We install, service and replace water softening systems that treat hard water. We install Clack® brand water softeners.
How it works: These systems use resin beads in a tank to condition your water and remove dissolved mineral content in your water – before it gets piped into your water pipes and plumbing. The resin beads trap the minerals, and the system periodically uses a salt brine to flush the mineral content from the resin tank and down the drain. This allows the system to recharge so it can work effectively for years. You just need to keep your brine tank filled with water softener salt, and be sure your system is programmed correctly for your daily water usage.
We inspect and service water softeners to make sure they continue to function properly and correct any problems that might occur.
Chlorine taste and smell
Chlorine and chloramine are disinfectants commonly used to kill water-borne microorganisms, such as bacteria and viruses in a municipal water system.
Water treated with chlorine often:
- has an unpleasant smell and taste
- and some people want chlorine removed from their water because health concerns about these chemicals.
Options for removing chlorine:
We can install or replace a reverse osmosis system. Or we can install water filters that help remove chlorine and other impurities – installed for your whole plumbing system, or under a specific sink to treat a single faucet.
How Reverse Osmosis works
Water is forced through a semipermeable membrane. This membrane separates the everyday household water at the molecular level. The membrane acts like a filter to isolate impurities, removing them from your water system.
Nitrates
Nitrates accumulate in agricultural watersheds where farmers spread inorganic fertilizers and animal manures on cropland. Also, some homeowners rely on lawn fertilizers, and residents in rural communities typically use on-lot septic systems.
Nitrogen not taken up by crops or spread on lawns can:
- seep into the soil and get into groundwater – which can then flow to recharge areas or private wells.
- Lawn fertilizer and septic systems can also be sources of nitrate in drinking water.
- Excessive nitrates are known to cause health problems for infants, small children, and certain adults.
How we treat excessive nitrates:
If you prefer not to buy bottled water for all your cooking and drinking, we have a solution. We can install, service, or replace reverse osmosis systems that reduce the level of nitrates in your water.
Bacteria & Microorganisms
Well water should be tested for Coliform Bacteria – an indicator of other harmful microorganisms that may be present in a contaminated well. Wells that are especially susceptible to bacteria problems are ones located near agricultural areas, or wells with nearby septic systems.
Harmful microorganisms can lead to:
- gastrointestinal problems and disease – especially for children, the elderly and those with weakened immune systems.
How we treat bacterial contamination:
A UV light filter can be installed as part of your water system – killing bacteria and harmful microorganisms before they make their way into your plumbing system.
High Iron
There’s a chance that there is too much iron in your water if:
- you’ve been experiencing problems with a metallic taste
- or there’s a strange color or residue in your water.
How to treat high iron problems:
We have the experience to install a water softener system that removes any extra iron that is present in your water.
Sediment
Signs of sediment in your water are usually visible and include:
- cloudy or discolored water
How to treat sediment problems:
For sediment problems in well water, sometimes simply adjusting the height of the submersible pump can correct the issue. We also can install filters that remove sediment in the water for both wells and water from a municipal water system.
Other impurities – arsenic, lead, and more
There are many harmful chemicals that can be present in your water that can cause health problems.
We can test for and treat your water for:
- arsenic
- lead
- other harmful chemicals, depending on your water system and specific concerns.
How to treat for other impurities:
Our experienced team can recommend a solution based on your water test results. Common solutions include installing a reverse osmosis system, or putting in a water filter for either the whole house or just one tap.