Springfield, IL (CAPITOL CITY NOW) – Many area homeowners assume clear tap water means it’s safe—but experts say this perception can be misleading. Rick Ray of Rick Ray and Sons Plumbing common household water issues and how to tackle them. 

“People are realizing their water isn’t necessarily what they think it is,” Ray said. “Even if it looks clear, there can still be harmful impurities coming from the city supply or from private wells.” 

Municipal sources or wells—can cause hard water problems. “Hard water,” rich in calcium and magnesium, often leaves scale in fixtures, soap scum, and water spots on dishes. Ray offers water softeners, which remove these minerals before they enter your home plumbing. 

“You’ll notice it on your shower walls, your faucet aerators, and the spots left on your dishes,” he said. “That buildup isn’t just a cleaning nuisance—it can also damage plumbing and appliances over time.” 

But for drinking water, simple filters aren’t always enough. Ray recommends reverse osmosis systems, typically installed under kitchen sinks, to eliminate chemicals, bacteria, and odors—offering pure-tasting water through a dedicated faucet. 

“For the cleanest, best-tasting drinking water, we install reverse osmosis systems,” Ray explained. “They remove bacteria, forever chemicals, and other contaminants. The systems go right under your sink and deliver filtered water through a dedicated faucet.” 

Determining the right system begins with testing. Ray professionals collect water samples and send them to a lab, then provide homeowners with tailored recommendations. “We can take a sample from your home and send it to a lab,” he said. “Once we know what’s in it, we’ll give you recommendations based on your specific needs.” 

Homeowners concerned about hard water or water quality are encouraged to contact Ray for a free consultation and professional assessment.