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Water quality has different benefits, depending on its use. Hard water is beneficial for drinking but detrimental for cleaning. Several methods are available to change the quality of water for optimal cleaning purposes. First, learn how water quality affects the final outcome of window cleaning.
The Meaning of Water Quality
Water is polluted mainly by the natural environment, industrial machinery or sewer systems. The quality of water is determined by its chemical, biological and physical composition. The common pollutants found in untreated water are bacteria, viruses, salts and pesticides.
The indicators used to test water quality include pH, color, odor, taste and alkalinity. Testers also check for the presence of bacteria, metals and organic matter. Different government agencies limit the level of contamination in drinking water; however, certain amounts of contaminants are still allowed in tap water.
The Significance of Hard Water
Dissolved minerals increase the hardness of water and reduce its effectiveness in cleaning. Magnesium and calcium are two minerals that reduce the foaming and cleaning effects of soap. Hard deposits form on certain surfaces like the interiors of boilers or the rims of bathtubs.
The Problem With Total Dissolved Solids
Total dissolved solids (TDS) are organic and inorganic materials that exist in water. High levels of TDS cause spots and streaks to appear on glass. These levels are measured at 20 parts per million (ppm) or higher. For streak-free windows, the water quality level should be below 20 ppm.
Quality Tests and Cleaning Methods
Professionals use certain at-home tests like titration kits to evaluate water hardness. Many use reverse osmosis as one method of cleaning and purifying water. The water is poured through a semipermeable membrane and the dissolved solids are extracted.
How Window Cleaning Becomes Effective
Softening the water involves removing these minerals, which increases the effectiveness of cleaning. Compared to using hard water, soft water requires less soap to create the same thorough window cleaning. There are also no spots or streaks that appear on the surface. The lifespan of the window is increased when deposits do not build up.