The word hard water may be a contradicting term since water is not hard, unless it turns into ice. Hard water is your plain household water, which contains dissolved minerals in high concentration. The common minerals found in hard water are calcium and magnesium. Though these minerals do not pose a risk in drinking water, they pose harm in different ways. These minerals do not cause any smell and taste in the water. You will not be able to detect its presence with your bare eyes. The high concentration of minerals in the water can be rated from minor to highly destructive. Minor and Annoying Effects of Hard Water If you have hard water, you will notice water spots on your dishes, kitchen utensils, sinks, and shower areas. Check your coffee pots and kettles for white deposits. If there is a high amount of white deposits, it is likely that you have hard water. When it comes to bathing and laundry, hard water reduces the ability of soaps and shampoo to lather. It also lessens the ri...