Understanding soft water for skin health starts with what’s in your tap water. Most water contains minerals like calcium and magnesium. While these minerals are not harmful, they can leave behind residue that affects how your skin and hair feel after washing.

When water is considered “hard,” these minerals interact with soap and shampoo, making them harder to rinse away. According to general water quality guidance from the USGS water hardness overview, mineral content varies widely by location and can influence everyday water use.

By reducing these minerals, soft water allows cleansers to work more effectively, supporting a more comfortable and refreshed feel after bathing.

Does soft water help your skin?

Soft water may help your skin feel more hydrated by reducing the mineral residue left behind after washing.

In hard water, calcium and magnesium combine with soap to create a film that can remain on the skin. This film may make skin feel tight or less smooth after bathing. With softened water, cleansers rinse away more completely, allowing skin to feel cleaner and more comfortable.

It’s important to note that soft water improves how skin feels rather than changing its health directly. Many homeowners exploring common water problems discover that mineral buildup is a major factor affecting comfort during daily routines.

Is hard water bad for your hair?

Hard water is not harmful, but it can affect how your hair feels and behaves after washing.

Minerals in hard water can cling to hair strands, leaving behind a coating that may reduce shine and make hair feel heavier. Many people also notice that shampoo does not lather as easily, requiring more product for the same result.

With softer water, shampoos rinse more effectively, which may help hair feel lighter and smoother. Homeowners exploring water softening systems often do so to improve both personal comfort and cleaning efficiency.

What are the benefits of soft water for daily routines?

Soft water improves daily routines by enhancing rinsing, reducing buildup, and supporting overall comfort.

Beyond skin and hair, soft water can affect multiple areas of your home:

• Showers: Skin may feel smoother after rinsing
• Hair Care: Easier lathering and rinse-out
• Laundry: Softer fabrics and less detergent needed
• Cleaning: Reduced soap scum and spotting

These improvements are primarily about comfort and efficiency, not safety. Hard water does not pose a health risk, but it can influence how effectively water works in everyday tasks.

How do you know if you have hard water?

Common signs of hard water include soap scum, dry-feeling skin, and buildup on fixtures.

You may notice spots on dishes, cloudy glassware, or the need to use more soap or shampoo. These signs often indicate mineral-rich water affecting how products perform.

The most reliable way to confirm hardness is through testing. Many homeowners start with professional water testing to understand their water composition before choosing a system.

Local Authority: Understanding Water Conditions in Your Area

Water hardness varies significantly depending on your location, water source, and regional geology. Homes using well water may experience higher mineral levels, while municipal systems can vary based on treatment processes and distribution systems.

Local expertise plays an important role in selecting the right system. A properly sized solution ensures consistent performance and avoids over- or under-treatment. Reviewing service areas helps homeowners understand how regional conditions influence water quality.

Working with a local professional ensures your system is designed for your home’s specific water profile and daily usage needs.

Enjoy More Comfortable Water Every Day

Soft water for skin health offers a noticeable improvement in how your water feels during everyday routines. By reducing mineral buildup, it allows soaps and shampoos to work more effectively, supporting smoother skin and softer-feeling hair.

The key to achieving these benefits is understanding your water first. Testing provides the clarity needed to choose the right system and ensure long-term performance. With the right setup, you can enjoy a more comfortable and efficient water experience throughout your home.

Further Reading & References

• Free water testing services
• Water softener systems
• Common water problems explained
• Service areas overview
• USGS Water Hardness Resource

Hard water boiler problems are common in Minnesota homes, especially during long winters when heating systems run almost nonstop. Hard water contains dissolved minerals—primarily calcium and magnesium—that naturally occur as groundwater moves through rock and soil. While these minerals are safe to drink, they can leave behind scale deposits inside boilers, humidifiers, and heating equipment.

Over time, these mineral deposits reduce heat transfer, force heating systems to work harder, and may increase energy costs. In cold climates like Minnesota, where heating systems run for months at a time, even a thin layer of scale can significantly affect performance. Understanding how hard water interacts with boilers, furnaces, and humidifiers helps homeowners identify potential problems early and protect their heating equipment.

How does hard water damage a boiler?

Hard water damages boilers by creating mineral scale on heat exchangers that blocks heat transfer and forces the system to use more energy to heat water.

When calcium and magnesium minerals are heated inside a boiler, they can crystallize and attach to metal surfaces. These deposits form a layer of scale that acts like insulation between the heating element and the water. Because heat must pass through this layer before reaching the water, the system must run longer to reach the desired temperature.

Over time, scale buildup may cause uneven heating, rumbling or “kettling” noises, and increased wear on components. Boilers that repeatedly operate under these conditions may experience shorter equipment life and higher maintenance needs. According to the U.S. Geological Survey, water hardness varies significantly depending on regional geology, which explains why many Minnesota homes encounter mineral buildup in heating systems.

Why do humidifiers cause hard water furnace issues?

Furnace humidifiers connected to a water supply may accumulate mineral deposits when hard water evaporates inside the unit.

Many forced-air heating systems in Minnesota include whole-home humidifiers that add moisture to dry winter air. As water evaporates inside the humidifier pad, dissolved minerals remain behind. Over time, these minerals can form crusty deposits that clog distribution trays, block valves, or reduce moisture output.

When buildup becomes severe, homeowners may notice white residue around the humidifier or reduced humidity levels inside the home. This can make indoor air feel drier during winter months and may require more frequent maintenance of humidifier components.

Does a water softener improve boiler efficiency?

A water softener improves boiler efficiency by removing calcium and magnesium minerals before they can form scale deposits inside heating equipment.

Salt-based ion exchange softeners work by replacing hardness minerals with sodium or potassium ions. Because these replacement ions remain dissolved in water rather than forming scale, softened water can pass through boilers and humidifiers without leaving mineral deposits.

When scale buildup is minimized, heat exchangers transfer heat more efficiently and heating systems can operate closer to their designed performance levels. Over time, this may help reduce fuel use, extend equipment lifespan, and lower maintenance costs for homeowners.

Where does hard water come from in Minnesota?

Hard water in Minnesota typically comes from groundwater that dissolves minerals from limestone and other rock formations as it moves through soil and aquifers.

Municipal water supplies and private wells may both contain varying levels of hardness depending on the location. In some areas, groundwater travels through mineral-rich formations that naturally increase calcium and magnesium levels before reaching homes.

Because hardness levels vary by region, testing your home’s water is the most reliable way to determine whether mineral buildup could affect your heating system.

What signs suggest hard water is affecting your heating system?

Several common warning signs may indicate that mineral scale is building up inside heating equipment.

• Boiler kettling or rumbling noises during heating cycles
• Reduced humidity output from furnace humidifiers
• White mineral residue around humidifier components
• Higher winter heating costs
• More frequent heating system maintenance

These signs often develop gradually, which is why homeowners may not immediately connect them to water quality. Identifying hardness early can help prevent long-term efficiency problems.

How homeowners can reduce hard water heating problems

Preventing hard water boiler problems typically begins with testing your water and installing a properly sized treatment system if hardness levels are high.

Whole-home softeners installed at the main water line treat water before it reaches boilers, humidifiers, and plumbing fixtures. Because the minerals are removed before heating occurs, the system reduces the conditions that cause scale formation.

Routine maintenance also plays an important role. Checking softener salt levels, monitoring water hardness, and servicing treatment equipment regularly help ensure continued protection throughout Minnesota’s long heating season.

Local Authority: Hard Water Challenges Across Minnesota

Homes across Minnesota frequently experience hard water conditions due to regional groundwater geology. Communities throughout the Twin Cities metro area, including Minneapolis, St. Paul, Bloomington, and surrounding counties such as Hennepin, Ramsey, and Dakota, often report moderate to high mineral content in their water supplies.

In rural parts of the state where private wells are common, hardness levels may be even higher. Because heating systems run for extended periods during Minnesota winters, managing water hardness can play an important role in maintaining heating efficiency and preventing unnecessary equipment wear.

Protecting Your Heating System During Minnesota Winters

Minnesota winters place heavy demands on boilers, furnaces, and humidifiers. When hard water enters these systems, mineral scale may quietly reduce efficiency and increase wear on heating equipment.

Understanding how hardness affects heating systems allows homeowners to identify potential issues early and take steps to reduce scale buildup. Testing water quality and maintaining appropriate treatment systems can help keep heating equipment operating efficiently throughout the cold season.

Further Reading & References

• What Is Hard Water and Why It Matters
• Free Water Testing Services
• Whole House Water Softeners
• Minnesota Service Areas
• USGS: Hardness of Water Explained

When you think about running a business, water might not be the first thing that comes to mind. But trust us, it’s one of the most essential elements for your operations—whether you’re serving a cup of coffee in an office building or brewing the perfect pint in a brewery. The quality of your water impacts everything from the cleanliness of your facilities to the quality of the product you provide.

At Commers Water, we’ve been helping Minnesota businesses with custom water solutions for over 70 years. No matter your industry, we know that every business has unique water needs, and we’re here to make sure you get the best solution tailored just for you.

Why Custom Water Solutions Matter
Water isn’t one-size-fits-all. Different industries have different needs, and each water source can be slightly different depending on location, use, and local water quality. That’s why we don’t believe in generic, one-size-fits-all systems. We’re all about creating customized solutions that work specifically for your business, whether you’re in an office building, a restaurant, a brewery, or something else entirely.

For Office Buildings: Clean, Soft Water for Every Need
In an office building, water might seem like a simple necessity—but its quality can directly impact your business. Whether it’s the water you use for your coffee machines, restrooms, or cleaning services, poor water quality can cause issues like limescale buildup, clogged pipes, and reduced efficiency of appliances and fixtures. Over time, this can lead to expensive repairs, higher energy bills, and even a decrease in employee comfort.

A water softener can help reduce these problems by removing minerals like calcium and magnesium that are common in hard water. Soft water helps prevent buildup in pipes and appliances, reduces the need for harsh chemicals in cleaning, and even improves the taste of your coffee and drinking water. With a water softener installed, your office will run smoothly, your equipment will last longer, and your team will enjoy the little perks of high-quality water.

For Restaurants: Keeping Everything Clean, Fresh, and Efficient
Restaurants rely on water more than most businesses. From dishwashers and ice machines to food preparation, water is an essential ingredient in everything you do. But hard water can cause a number of headaches—clogged dishwashers, cloudy glassware, spotty silverware, and mineral buildup in appliances. Over time, this can affect the quality of your service, and most importantly, your customers’ experience.

A custom water solution can transform how your kitchen operates. Water softeners protect your equipment from mineral buildup, ensuring your appliances run more efficiently and last longer. They also help improve the taste and appearance of your food and drinks by eliminating unwanted minerals. Plus, by reducing the use of detergents and chemicals, you’ll save on cleaning costs and reduce your environmental footprint.

For Breweries: The Key to the Perfect Brew
Breweries have a unique relationship with water. Water quality directly affects the flavor, consistency, and quality of every batch. The mineral content of water can alter the taste of your beer, and over time, mineral buildup can affect your brewing equipment and processes. That’s why having water tailored to your brewing needs is essential to producing the best beer possible.

At Commers Water, we understand the science of water when it comes to brewing. We offer custom water solutions for breweries that ensure you get the purest, softest water with the right mineral balance for brewing. Our systems help remove unwanted minerals while preserving those that enhance your beer’s flavor profile. Whether you’re brewing lagers, IPAs, or stouts, we’ll make sure your water is on point, every time.

For Manufacturing Facilities: Clean Water for Every Stage
In manufacturing, water plays a critical role in everything from cooling machinery to cleaning and production processes. Hard water can cause scaling in pipes and machinery, leading to inefficiencies, breakdowns, and costly repairs. A custom water solution can help ensure your manufacturing processes run smoothly by preventing mineral buildup and reducing the risk of equipment failure.

By installing a water softener, you’ll protect your equipment, reduce maintenance costs, and ensure your products are made with clean, reliable water. Plus, soft water helps improve the overall efficiency of your operations, saving you time and money in the long run.

Tailored Solutions for Every Business
At Commers Water, we don’t believe in “one-size-fits-all.” Every business has its own unique water needs, and we’re here to create a custom solution that fits yours. Whether you’re running an office, restaurant, brewery, or manufacturing facility, we have the experience and expertise to design a system that works for you.

We’ll assess your water quality, consider your business needs, and recommend the right water treatment system to meet your goals. From water softeners to filtration systems, we offer solutions that improve water quality, protect your equipment, and save you money.

Better Water, Better Business
For over 70 years, Commers Water has been Minnesota’s go-to water expert for businesses of all sizes. We’ve helped countless companies optimize their water use, save money, and improve their operations. If you’re ready to see how a custom water solution can help your business thrive, we’d love to chat. No pressure, just honest advice and solutions that work.

We totally get it—you turn on the tap and expect clean, safe water. That’s how it should be, right? And most of the time, it is. But here’s the thing: just because water looks clean doesn’t always mean it’s free from things you wouldn’t want in your glass.

At Commers Water, we’ve been helping Minnesotans get better water since 1947. And one thing we’ve learned over the years? Tap water can carry some surprises—especially depending on where you live, the age of your plumbing, and what’s happening in your local water supply.

Let’s take a closer look at what might be floating under the radar in your tap water.

1. Chlorine and chloramines
These disinfectants are added to city water to kill bacteria and viruses—and they do a great job. But they also come with a catch: taste and odor. If your water smells like a swimming pool or leaves your coffee tasting off, chlorine is probably the culprit. Not to mention, long-term exposure can be hard on your skin and hair.

2. Lead and other heavy metals
This one’s especially common in older homes with outdated pipes. Even if your city has clean water when it leaves the treatment plant, it can pick up lead or copper as it travels through old plumbing. It’s tasteless, colorless, and not something you want in your family’s water.

3. Nitrates and agricultural runoff
If you live in or near a rural area, your water could be affected by fertilizers, pesticides, or other chemicals used in farming. These contaminants can seep into groundwater and show up in private wells and even some municipal supplies. They’re especially concerning for infants and those with certain health conditions.

4. Hard water minerals
Calcium and magnesium might sound harmless (and technically, they are), but they’re still considered contaminants. They don’t make you sick, but they do cause scale buildup in your pipes, spots on your dishes, dry skin, and rough laundry. Not exactly the kind of “clean” you want from your water.

5. Microorganisms
City water is treated to eliminate most bacteria and viruses—but things can still slip through. And if you’re on a private well, your water isn’t treated at all unless you do it yourself. Without regular testing, you might not even realize what’s living in your water.

So… how do you know what’s in your water?
Great question. The short answer? You test it. At Commers, we offer free in-home water testing that’s quick, easy, and zero-pressure. We’ll walk you through what’s in your water and help you figure out what (if anything) you might want to remove.

What can you do about it?
The good news: there’s a solution for just about every water issue—and we make it simple. From reverse osmosis drinking water systems to whole-home filtration and softeners, we’ll match you with the right fix for your home, your family, and your water.

Because when it comes to something you use every day—for drinking, cooking, bathing, and more—it’s worth making sure it’s the best it can be.

So if your water smells weird, tastes off, or you just want peace of mind, let’s talk. No pressure, no jargon. Just real answers from Minnesota’s water experts since 1947.

Better water, made easy. That’s what we do.

If you’ve ever noticed your clothes fading faster, feeling rough, or just not holding up like they used to, hard water might be the sneaky culprit. Minnesota homeowners deal with hard water more than you might think, and it’s not just a nuisance in your bathroom—it can affect your laundry too. But don’t worry, better water is the solution you’ve been looking for.

Here’s the thing: the minerals in hard water—like calcium and magnesium—can build up in your laundry over time. And while they may seem harmless, they can actually take a toll on your clothes, making them wear out faster and lose their softness. So, what’s the fix? Soft water. Let’s break it down.

1. Softer clothes start with softer water
Hard water doesn’t just make your soap and detergent less effective; it also leaves mineral deposits behind in your fabrics. These minerals can make your clothes feel stiff, scratchy, and worn-out sooner than they should. With soft water, your detergent can actually do its job better, getting your clothes cleaner without the mineral buildup. The result? Soft, comfy clothes that last longer.

2. Less fading, more vibrancy
We all love bright, colorful clothes, but those bold hues can start to fade over time with hard water. That’s because the minerals in hard water can strip away the vibrant colors and leave your favorite shirt looking dull. When you use soft water, it helps preserve the color in your clothes and keeps them looking fresh wash after wash.

3. Clothes feel better against your skin
If you’ve ever noticed that your towels or sheets feel rough or scratchy, it’s likely because of hard water. The minerals can accumulate in fabrics, making them less absorbent and more irritating on your skin. Soft water, however, helps keep your fabrics softer, making your towels fluffier, your sheets cozier, and your clothes more comfortable.

4. Appliances stay in better shape
It’s not just your clothes that benefit from soft water—it’s your washing machine too. Hard water can cause mineral buildup in your washing machine, which means it has to work harder to clean your laundry. Over time, this can shorten the lifespan of your appliances, leading to expensive repairs or replacements. Soft water helps your washer run more efficiently, keeping both your clothes and your machine in top condition.

5. Save money in the long run
Using soft water in your laundry doesn’t just keep your clothes looking good and feeling soft—it also saves you money. With less mineral buildup in your washer and fewer detergent residues left behind, you’ll end up using less detergent and fabric softener. Plus, your clothes will last longer, meaning you won’t need to replace them as often. It’s a win-win for your wallet and your wardrobe.

Better water, better laundry.
When you invest in a water softener, you’re not just improving your water quality—you’re taking steps to protect your clothes, your appliances, and your budget. At Commers Water, we’ve been helping Minnesota homeowners enjoy cleaner, softer water since 1947. We understand the science, but we keep it simple and real. Our custom water softeners are designed to work for your unique needs, so you can enjoy better water and longer-lasting laundry.

If you’re ready to make your clothes last longer, feel softer, and look brighter, let’s talk. We offer free in-home water tests to help you understand what’s in your water and what steps you can take to improve it.

Hard water might seem like a minor inconvenience—maybe it leaves a few spots on your glassware or makes your soap less sudsy. But behind the scenes? It’s working overtime to wear down some of the biggest investments in your home: your appliances.

We’re not trying to sound dramatic, but when you’ve been Minnesota’s water experts since 1947, you see what hard water can really do. And it’s more than a few calcium deposits—it’s reduced efficiency, early breakdowns, and costly repairs or replacements.

Let’s break it down.

Water heaters take the biggest hit
Your water heater is basically ground zero for hard water damage. As water heats up, those hard minerals (mostly calcium and magnesium) separate and settle at the bottom of the tank. That sediment buildup acts like insulation, forcing your heater to work harder just to get the same job done. Not only does this drive up your energy bill, but it also shortens the lifespan of your water heater—by years.

Dishwashers and washing machines aren’t spared either
Hard water can clog up hoses and coat internal parts with scale. That means your appliances use more energy, more detergent, and more rinse cycles just to do what they’re supposed to do. Over time, the buildup can lead to mechanical issues and breakdowns that cost more than a softener would’ve in the first place.

Coffee makers, ice machines, and other small appliances suffer too
Even the smaller gadgets in your kitchen aren’t immune. Mineral deposits can gum up your coffee maker, clog your ice machine, and reduce the efficiency of anything that involves heating or moving water. And let’s be honest—no one wants crunchy coffee.

More maintenance, more repairs, more replacements
Hard water doesn’t just cost you in energy and cleaning supplies. It costs you in time, frustration, and real money. Whether it’s the plumber you called to fix your water heater (again), or the new dishwasher you had to replace two years early, those costs add up fast.

So, what’s the fix?
A water softener from Commers Water doesn’t just protect your home—it protects your investment. Our custom-built systems are designed to match your household’s water usage and local water quality. They reduce buildup, extend the life of your appliances, and help everything run more efficiently—from your water heater to your washing machine.

Plus, you’ll save money on energy, repairs, and cleaning products. And you’ll have the peace of mind knowing your appliances are being treated to soft water—the way they were meant to be.

Hard water is sneaky. But we’re not. We’ll give you clear answers, honest solutions, and water you can feel good about. Give us a call and let’s talk about how to protect your home—and everything in it.

We all love a good DIY project—whether it’s fixing a leaky faucet, installing a new appliance, or tackling some other home repair. It’s satisfying to roll up your sleeves and solve problems on your own. But when it comes to your home’s water system, the stakes are a little higher. From water softeners to filtration systems, the wrong approach can cause more trouble than it’s worth. So, when should you handle your water issues on your own—and when should you call in the experts?

Here’s a quick guide to help you decide if it’s time to DIY or time to call Commers Water, Minnesota’s trusted water experts since 1947.

1. Water Softener Installation: DIY or Don’t?
Water softeners are a great way to fix hard water problems, but installing one isn’t a simple task. Sure, you can find instructions online, but there’s more to it than just hooking up a few hoses. It’s important to ensure proper installation so your system works efficiently and lasts longer. If you’ve never installed one before, it’s best to leave this to the professionals. At Commers Water, we handle all the heavy lifting—installing your water softener with precision and making sure it’s set up just right for your home’s unique needs.

2. Fixing a Leaky Faucet: DIY or Don’t?
A leaky faucet is one of those classic household annoyances. If you’ve got a slow drip driving you nuts, you might be tempted to grab a wrench and try to fix it yourself. If you’re handy with tools and know the basics of plumbing, this is definitely a DIY job. But if the leak is a bit more complicated (say, if it’s a cartridge valve or if you can’t identify the source), it’s worth calling in a professional to avoid making things worse.

3. Water Quality Concerns: DIY or Don’t?
When your tap water looks cloudy or has a strange taste, your first instinct might be to run to the store for a water filter. But that’s a short-term fix, and it doesn’t get to the root of the problem. When your water quality is off, it’s important to understand what’s going on behind the scenes. Do you have hard water? Is there contamination or bacteria in your water supply? At Commers Water, we offer free water testing to pinpoint the exact problem. Once we know what’s going on, we’ll recommend a solution tailored to your home and needs—whether it’s a water softener, filtration system, or something else entirely.

4. Changing Your Water Filter: DIY or Don’t?
Most water filtration systems have replaceable filters, and changing them is usually a straightforward DIY task. However, make sure you’re using the right filter for your system and changing it on time. Not replacing your filter regularly can actually lead to poor water quality and reduced performance. If you’re unsure how to change the filter, or if your filtration system is acting up, our experts are always ready to help with a simple, professional solution.

5. Diagnosing Water Heater Issues: DIY or Don’t?
Water heaters are one of those appliances you don’t want to mess with unless you really know what you’re doing. If your water’s not heating properly or you’re noticing strange noises coming from your heater, it could be an easy fix—or it could be something more serious. Attempting to repair a water heater yourself can be dangerous and cause further damage, so if you’re not sure what’s wrong, it’s best to call in the experts. At Commers Water, we’ve been helping Minnesotans with water heaters for decades, and we’ll make sure your system is working like it should—safely and efficiently.

6. Installing a Whole-House Filtration System: DIY or Don’t?
A whole-house filtration system can be a game-changer when it comes to water quality, but installing one is not a one-size-fits-all job. Every home’s plumbing system is different, and the right system for your needs depends on the specifics of your water supply. While some homeowners might feel comfortable installing a system on their own, it’s a complex task that requires knowledge of plumbing and water treatment systems. Our team at Commers Water can help you choose the best system for your home and install it with precision, so you can enjoy pure, clean water every day.

7. Dealing with Mineral Buildup in Your Pipes: DIY or Don’t?
Mineral buildup from hard water can create all kinds of problems, from clogged pipes to reduced water flow. While there are some DIY tricks for dealing with buildup in small areas (like using vinegar to clean faucets or showerheads), mineral buildup in your plumbing system or water heater is a bigger issue that’s best left to the pros. Our water softeners are designed to prevent this buildup and help your system run smoothly, and we’re always here to give your pipes a check-up if needed.

When in Doubt, Call Commers Water
Sometimes, even the most seasoned DIYers need to ask for help—and that’s okay! Water treatment can be tricky, and when things go wrong, it can lead to bigger problems and bigger expenses down the road. If you’re facing any water-related issue that you’re unsure about, don’t hesitate to reach out to us at Commers Water. We’ve been the water experts in Minnesota since 1947, and we’re here to offer honest, professional advice and service that’s tailored to your needs.

DIY is great when you’re fixing minor issues, but for the bigger problems, it’s always best to call the experts. We’ll make sure your water is working like it should—clean, soft, and ready for your home. Let’s chat!

Let’s talk water—specifically, the kind that’s sneaky, stubborn, and wreaking quiet havoc on your home: hard water. If your dishes come out of the dishwasher looking worse than when they went in, or your showerhead has seen shinier days, you might be dealing with it. But don’t worry—we’ve got you. Here are five telltale signs your home is begging for a water softener.

1. Soap just won’t lather Ever notice your shampoo, body wash, or hand soap isn’t lathering like it should? That might not be your product—it’s probably your water. Hard water contains high levels of calcium and magnesium, which don’t play well with soap. That means you’re using more and getting less out of it. A water softener helps you get back that rich, sudsy goodness we all want in the shower.
2. Your appliances are on the struggle bus Hard water doesn’t just mess with your morning shower—it’s also tough on your appliances. Mineral buildup in your dishwasher, washing machine, and water heater can lower efficiency and shorten their lifespan. If your appliances are working overtime or showing signs of wear earlier than expected, hard water might be the culprit.
3. You’re seeing spots (on everything) Whether it’s on your clean glasses, silverware, faucets, or shower doors—those cloudy white spots are mineral deposits left behind by hard water. And they’re not just a nuisance to look at—they can be tough to clean and can even permanently etch your surfaces over time. Installing a water softener can help you say goodbye to spots and hello to sparkle.
4. Dry skin and brittle hair Hard water can strip your skin and hair of natural oils, leaving you with dry, itchy skin and dull, tangled hair. If you’re finding yourself piling on lotion and deep conditioner, your water might be to blame. Soft water is gentler on skin and hair, so you (and your family) can feel more comfortable and healthy after every shower.
5. Your utility bill is creeping up When minerals build up in your water heater, it has to work harder—and that means higher energy bills. The same goes for washing machines and dishwashers working under tough water conditions. If your utility bill has been sneaking up and you can’t pinpoint why, it might be time to consider the soft water solution.

If you’re nodding along to more than one of these signs, don’t worry—you’re not alone, and you’re not stuck. At Commers Water, we’ve been helping Minnesotans tackle hard water since 1947. Our custom-built systems are designed to fit your water, your home, and your life. Let’s chat and find the right solution—no pressure, just clear answers and better water.

Stop by, give us a call, or book your free water test today. We’ll walk through your options, explain everything in plain language, and help you find a solution that actually fits your life.

Because when it comes to water—you deserve the good stuff.

Commers Water. Better water, made easy.

If you’ve ever noticed cloudy spots on your dishes, scratchy clothes after doing laundry, or dry skin no matter how much lotion you use, there’s a good chance your home has hard water. It’s a common problem here in Minnesota—and we’ve been helping folks tackle it since 1947.

But what exactly is hard water, and why does it matter? Let’s break it down, neighbor to neighbor.

First Things First: What Is Hard Water?

Hard water is water that’s rich in minerals—mainly calcium and magnesium. Now, those minerals aren’t harmful to your health (so no worries there), but they can cause a whole bunch of headaches around the house.

You might not always see hard water, but you can definitely feel it. It makes soap less sudsy, leaves behind chalky buildup, and can be tough on everything from your appliances to your hair.

The Hard Truth: Signs You Have Hard Water

Hard water loves to leave its mark. Here are a few signs you might be dealing with it:

• Spotted glasses that look like they’ve been through a dust storm.
• Soap that doesn’t lather—you’re using more and getting less clean.
• Dry, itchy skin and flat hair (no, it’s not just winter).
• White crusty buildup on faucets and showerheads.
• Dingy laundry that feels rough, no matter what detergent you use.
• Frequent appliance repairs (especially with your water heater).

Sound familiar? You’re not alone. About 85% of U.S. households have hard water—and Minnesota is no exception.

Why Does Hard Water Matter?

We get it—this might sound like one of those “not a big deal” issues. But over time, hard water can do more damage (and cost you more money) than you think.

Here’s why:

🛠 It’s Tough on Appliances
Hard water causes mineral buildup inside your water heater, dishwasher, washing machine, and more. That buildup forces them to work harder—and wear out faster.

💸 It Raises Your Utility Bills
Mineral deposits act like insulation inside your pipes and heater. That means your system needs more energy to do the same job. More energy = higher bills.

🧺 It Makes Cleaning a Chore
From extra soap scum in the tub to dull laundry, hard water makes it harder to clean—and you end up using more detergent, shampoo, and elbow grease to get the same results.

The Fix: Water Softeners Made for Minnesota Homes

Here’s the good news: hard water isn’t something you have to live with. A water softener removes those problem-causing minerals, giving you cleaner, softer water throughout your entire home.

At Commers Water, we’ve been designing and installing water softeners specifically for Minnesota water for over 75 years. Our systems are:

• Efficient: Use less salt and water than most.
• Custom-Built: Designed for your home’s unique water needs.
• Long-Lasting: Built right here and built to last.

And we don’t just sell you a system and wish you luck. We walk you through it, install it right, and stick around to support you however you need—whether that’s routine maintenance, salt delivery, or a friendly check-in.

“So… Is It Worth It?”

We hear that question all the time. And honestly? The answer is almost always yes.

Switching to soft water means:

✅ Longer-lasting appliances
✅ Cleaner dishes and clothes
✅ Softer skin and hair
✅ Lower energy and maintenance bills
✅ Less time cleaning up soap scum and scale

It’s better water—made easy. And that’s what we’re all about.

Why Trust Commers?

We’ve been Minnesota’s water experts since 1947. This is our home too, and we treat your water like we’d treat our own.

No pressure. No pushy sales. Just honest help and solutions that make sense.

When you work with us, you get:

• A local team that knows Minnesota water inside and out
• Custom water softeners and drinking water systems
• Clear, simple answers to all your water questions
• Friendly service—always with a smile

We’re proud to be family-owned, Minnesota-based, and still guided by the same values John Commers had when he started the company: treat people right, do quality work, and never stop learning.

Let’s Fix Your Water—Together

Hard water doesn’t have to be your normal. Whether you’re just curious or ready to make a change, we’re here to help.

Stop by, give us a call, or book your free water test today. We’ll walk through your options, explain everything in plain language, and help you find a solution that actually fits your life.

Because when it comes to water—you deserve the good stuff.

Commers Water. Better water, made easy.

Seventy five years ago John Commers opened Commers The Water Store. The year was 1947 and John Commers had just moved from Minneapolis to St. Anthony. After the move he quickly realized the affliction known as hard water. Mr. Commers proceeded to study hard water and the water softening process at the local library. He realized he could combine his new found knowledge of the water industry and his technical mechanical engineer training from his service during World War II to create a new small business. John said, of his new company, “I wanted to build a better water softener that was service free and easy to maintain if need be.”

Seventy five years later, in 1964 John Commers turned the business over to his son John G. Commers Jr. and his wife Patricia. John and Patricia turned the company into the largest independent water softener dealer in Minnesota. They added a salt delivery service, established two U.S. patents and started manufacturing Commers branded Water softeners. By manufacturing their own water softeners they were able to leave the “one-size-fits-all” approach and began being able to customize their softeners to each individual household. By specifically customizing each water softener, Commers units are more salt efficient and longer lasting than others on the market.
In an effort to provide a comprehensive approach to solving people’s water problems Commers marketed its first drinking water system in 1978. Continuing to provide customers with the best possible drinking water solutions, in 1980 Commers began working with a new technology called reverse osmosis.  Today, Commers continues to be a leading company in delivering customers the highest quality residential drinking water.

Near the turn of the century Commers decided to upgrade their facility. They moved from northeast Minneapolis to Blaine in 1999. Soon after shifting their headquarters, Commers opened two more stores in order to better serve the Twin Cities. Commers Minnetonka opened its doors in 2002, while Commers Burnsville opened in 2004.

As Commers turns seventy five, we continue to strive to the remain leader in Twin Cities water softening business by custom making our units and living up to our founder’s motto.

Stop by, give us a call, or book your free water test today. We’ll walk through your options, explain everything in plain language, and help you find a solution that actually fits your life.

Because when it comes to water—you deserve the good stuff.

Commers Water. Better water, made easy.