Calcium and magnesium in water make it hard. Hardness increases with higher calcium and magnesium levels, related to the concentration of multivalent cations in the water.

Iron and manganese are non-hazardous but troublesome elements in drinking water. They cause staining on laundry, plates, fixtures, hair, etc. Iron is the most common contaminant, while manganese is usually present in iron-bearing water.

Chlorine is added to drinking water to protect against microbes and diseases. Its adoption had significant health impacts, but tap water can have a high chlorine level, affecting taste and health without proper filtering.

Water that is too acidic may have a metallic taste and can also cause corrosion of plumbing fixtures, Alkaline water, on the other hand, can have an unpleasant taste like baking soda.

These are only a few of the impurities that can cause water quality problems for homeowners. Water testing can also reveal the presence of contaminants like lead and volatile organic compounds that can affect the safety of your drinking water.

Nitrate forms naturally from nitrogen and oxygen/ozone. It's vital for life, but high levels in water can harm health, especially for infants and pregnant women. Plants, animals, and smoke also produce nitrates.