Summer Glow: How Unfiltered Water Can Damage Your Hair and Skin

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Later this month marks the official start of Summer, a season that brings a natural focus on feeling confident, refreshed, and at your best. From glowing skin to healthy, soft hair, many people update their routines to match the warming weather. One important factor that often gets overlooked is the quality of water you are using everyday. 

The fresh and clean feeling you may be after will be harder to achieve if your home’s water is unfiltered. Even with the best shampoos, conditioners, and skincare products, the water coming from your taps can quietly be working against you.

If your hair has been feeling dry or brittle, and your skin seems irritated, dull, or unusually sensitive despite trying new products, your water could very possibly be the root of the issue, especially if it is what’s known as “hard” water. 

 

Hard Water

Hard water is water with high levels of dissolved minerals, primarily calcium, magnesium, and often iron. It’s incredibly common in both private well systems, and municipal water supplies, meaning many households experience this without even realizing. 

While it may seem harmless, hard water can have noticeable effects throughout your home. This can look like anything from leaving spots on dishes to reducing the efficiency and look of appliances, but more notably, it directly impacts your hair and skin.

 

How Unfiltered Water Can Damage Your Hair

When you wash your hair with hard water, that calcium, magnesium, and any other minerals, don’t just wash away. Instead, they cling to your hair strands and create a buildup over time. That buildup can:

  • Leave hair looking dull and weighed down
  • Make your hair feel dry, coarse, or harder to mange
  • Block moisture
  • Irritate the scalp
  • Cause color-treated hair to fade quicker
  • Increase likelihood of breakage or thinning

Even high-quality hair products can struggle to perform effectively when mineral buildup is constantly interfering. 

 

How Unfiltered Water Can Damage Your Skin

Hard water will treat your skin in a similar manner. Those same minerals will strip away your skin’s natural oils, while also creating a barrier that prevents hydration. Over time this can lead to:

  • Skin feeling and looking dry
  • Itchiness or irritation
  • Clogged pores or acne breakouts
  • Worsening of skin conditions like eczema

Instead of feeling clean and refreshed after washing your face or showering, your skin may feel uncomfortable instead. 

 

Takeaways

Everyday, your skin and hair come into direct contact with your home’s water. Something as routine as showering or washing your face could be contributing to dryness, irritation, and dullness without you realizing the cause. 

If your goal this Summer is to truly look and feel refreshed, improving your water quality is a powerful, and often overlooked, step. A whole-house water filtration system can help remove excess minerals and contaminants, allowing your hair and skin to retain  moisture and respond better to the products you already use. 

If you’re considering improving your home’s water quality, starting with expert guidance can make all the difference. You can request a free water analysis HERE and we can help you determine if a new Whole House Water Filtration System is right for you and your home.

Best of Sierra Nevada: Vote for Water Unlimited

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Voting is now open for the 2026 Best of Sierra Nevada Awards!

The Best of Sierra Nevada Community’s Choice Awards are a yearly competition among local Reno, Carson, and Tahoe businesses in more than 10 categories and 200 subcategories. The competition allows participants to honor their favorite local businesses and organizations and show their support by nominating and voting.

At Water Unlimited we truly see ourselves as part of this beloved community, and it means the world to us that we are able to call it our home. We are honored to receive this recognition and grateful to every community member that got us to the voting period.

Vote for Water Unlimited under the Service category and Customer Service subcategory!

Vote everyday until June 19th HERE

Water Filtration Backed by Science: What Really Goes into Having Clean Water

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Clean water doesn’t happen by chance…it’s the result of carefully engineered science working behind the scenes. 

With May recognized as national science month, it is the perfect opportunity to unveil what’s really going on  every time you turn on the tap. Water filtration systems are designed to remove contaminants such as chlorine, heavy metals, sediment, bacteria, and more, ensuring that the water in your home is not only safe to drink, but better for cooking, cleaning, and everyday use. 

 

How do Water Filtration Systems Work?

At their core, water filtration systems rely on a combination of physical, chemical, and biological processes to remove unwanted substances. Different systems are built to target different types of contaminants, which is why many homes use a combination of filtration methods for the best results. 

The three main filtration methods are:

  • Carbon filters
  • Reverse osmosis 
  • UV filters

 

Carbon Filtration

Carbon filters are one of the most common and effective filtration methods used in residential water filtration systems. These filters use activated carbon, which is a certain material that attracts and traps contaminants through a process called adsorption. 

This method is especially effective at:

  • Reducing chlorine
  • Improving taste and odor
  • Removing certain volatile organic compounds 

The result is water that tastes cleaner and fresher, making it more enjoyable for drinking, cooking, and washing. 

 

Reverse Osmosis Filtration

Reverse osmosis systems take filtration a step further by targeting dissolved contaminants that are too small for standard filters to catch. These systems push water through a semi-permeable membrane, which blocks impurities and bacteria at a molecular level. 

Due to its precision, reverse osmosis systems are often used for drinking water systems where purity is a top priority.

 

UV Filtration

Ultraviolet (UV) filtration uses light (rather than chemicals) to disinfect water. As water passes through the system, it is exposed to UV light that neutralizes the harmful microorganisms by disrupting their DNA. 

UV systems are ideal for:

  • Eliminating bacteria and viruses
  • Providing an added layer of protection for well water or untreated sources
  • Chemical-free purification

 

Takeaways

From carbon filtration that reduces chlorine and improves taste to reverse osmosis systems that target microscopic or dissolved contaminants, modern water treatment is designed to solve very specific water quality problems at the source.

The result is water that not only looks clear, but performs better throughout your entire home. If you choose to invest in a water filtration system this year, you will notice improvements in everything from drinking water quality to appliance efficiency and even the longevity of your plumbing system.

If you’re considering improving your home’s water quality, starting with expert guidance can make all the difference. You can request a free water analysis HERE and we can help you determine if a new Whole House Water Filtration System is right for you and your home.

DIY vs. Professional Installation: Why You Should Seek a Professional Water Filtration Installation

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Earlier this month marked national Do-it-yourself (DIY) day. National DIY Day celebrates creativity, independence, and the satisfaction of completing difficult projects on your own. 

While DIY projects can absolutely be a great way to save money and feel accomplished, it is important to recognize that not every project is suited for a tutorial video. In many cases, the risk can often outweigh the rewards … especially when plumbing is involved. 

One specific at-home project that you may want to keep off of your DIY list this year, is installing a water filtration system. At first glance, it may seem straightforward; watch a video, get some new tools, and save on installation costs. In reality, however, this process is much more complex than it appears, and small mistakes can quickly turn into expensive, stressful problems. 

 

The Risks of DIY Water Filtration System Installations

Water damage is one of the most expensive and disruptive issues a homeowner can face. A small leak can quickly escalate into a burst pipe or flooding, which can cause thousands of dollars worth of damage in minutes. Beyond that potential financial impact, there is also the time, stress, and uncertainty that comes with most complex DIY projects. 

While it is possible for a DIY water filtration system installation to go smoothly, it is far from guaranteed. Working with water in any capacity requires precision, and even a minor mistake can have a major consequence. 

Additionally, water filtration systems must be properly integrated with your home’s existing plumbing. Without the right expertise, you risk the effectiveness of the system. It is entirely possible to complete this project only for there to be no change (or worsening) in your water quality. 

 

Professional Water Filtration System Installations

Seeking a professional to install your water filtration system offers several key advantages: 

  • Enhanced safety: Proper installation reduces the risk of leaks, pipe damage, and contamination
  • Cost savings: An incorrect installation can quickly lead to damage with costly repairs
  • Long-term, reliable results: Systems installed by professionals ensure quality, efficiency, and durability

Hiring a professional ensures the job is done correctly, efficiently, and with minimal disruption to your daily life. Experienced installers understand your home’s specific water needs and how to execute them without damage. Not only do they eliminate the guesswork and risk, but they also provide peace of mind. It will allow you to enjoy clean, filtered water without the added stress.

When it comes to projects that directly impact your home’s infrastructure, it is worth investing in the right expertise. It is so important to take on a DIY challenge every once in a while, but sometimes it is equally as important to learn when not to do-it-yourself. 

If you’re considering improving your home’s water quality, starting with expert guidance can make all the difference. You can request a free water analysis HERE and we can help you determine if a new Whole House Water Filtration System is right for you and your home.

Avoid Unwanted Leaks: How to Detect Leaks and Conserve Water

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This week is national Fix a Leak Week, making it the perfect time to take a closer look at your home’s water filtration system. Have you ever asked yourself how old your water filtration system is and when the last time you checked it for a leak was…or if you ever have?

While it is not uncommon for older water filtration systems to develop leaks over time, it is definitely something you want to catch early and avoid altogether. Water Unlimited is always here to help fix a leak if one occurs, but knowing how to detect and prevent issues on your own can save you time, money, and unnecessary stress. 

 

Detecting leaks

A leak in your water filtration system can do more than just waste water. It can promote mold or bacterial growth, cause damage to floors or cabinets, and allow contaminants into your drinking water, ultimately defeating the purpose of having the system in the first place. That is why it is so important to know how to detect a leak, and check regularly.

There are several ways you can check your water filtration system for leakage. Some signs are obvious, while others are easy to overlook:

  • Visual inspection: It is so important to regularly check the filter system for moisture, water pooling underneath, or rust on surrounding pipes. All can indicate a leak. 
  • Physical check: You should semi-regularly run your hand along the exterior tubing of the filter and around the area to feel for small leaks. On reverse osmosis systems, check for clogged drain lines. If anything feels damp or abnormal, it is worth investigating. 
  • Listen: Listen for persistent dripping or running water when no taps or appliances are in use. 
  • Water meter test: Turn off all water-using appliances in your home and check your water meter. If it continues to move, this may be a sign of a leak. 

 

Preventing leaks

The good news is that many leaks are completely preventable with proper maintenance and a little attention detail through the steps below:

  • Replace your filter: Most systems require filter replacements every 2–6 months, depending on the type of system and your household’s water usage. Delaying replacements can increase pressure and lead to leaks. 
  • Tighten loose connections: Periodically check to make sure none of the connections or fittings in your system are loose, as this could potentially cause a leak. 
  • Clean: If water is dripping from the valve area it could be due to a buildup of dirt in the area. A simple cleaning can resolve the issue before it becomes a bigger problem. 

 

Conserving water

Unchecked leaks in your water filtration system can lead to water damage, contaminated drinking water, higher utility bills, and unnecessary water waste. Staying proactive helps protect your home, your health, and the environment.

If you notice any signs of a leak, or if you’re unsure whether your system is functioning properly, Water Unlimited is here to help. Our team can quickly identify and fix leaks before they turn into costly repairs.

You can also request a free water analysis HERE and we can help you determine if a new Whole House Water Filtration System is right for you and your home.

Show Yourself Some Love This Month: Keep Up Your Hygiene With Filtered Water

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We all know that February is the month of love. Whether platonic or romantic, February gives us all the opportunity to express the love we feel everyday. Something that can often be overlooked, but is equally as important, is showing love, not just to others, but to yourself. Self-love can look different for everyone, but one universal way to practice it is by taking care of your personal hygiene. One simple and effective way to improve your hygiene, without investing in a variety of expensive products, is by using filtered water. 

Water filtration systems in your household can improve the health of your teeth, skin, hair, clothes, and even the food you prepare every day. 

 

Dental Hygiene 

Having a filtered water system in your household positively affects many daily routines that involve water, including brushing your teeth and drinking water. Clean, filtered water will not only improve the taste of the water you drink, but also supports better overall dental health. 

Exposing your teeth to filtered water instead of hard water is far more effective at clearing away bacteria and excess food, freshening your breath, fighting teeth stains, diluting harmful acids, and preventing cavities. Simply by continuing your normal daily routines utilizing filtered water can significantly improve the long-term health of your teeth. 

 

Skin/Hair

Your teeth aren’t the only part of your body that is exposed to water in your household every day. You also may shower and wash your hands and face multiple times a day. Whole-house water filtration systems can greatly improve the health and overall feel of your skin. Filtered water helps make skin softer and smoother while also reducing irritation, redness, and acne. 

When it comes to showering, your hair benefits just as much as your skin. Clean, filtered water helps remove harsh minerals, leaving hair softer, cleaner, and healthier looking than before. Over time, this can result in improved shine, manageability, and overall hair health. 

 

Laundry

One of the more unexpected benefits of a whole-house water filtration system is the improved quality of your laundry. The cleaner the water, the cleaner your clothes. Filtered water removes minerals and contaminants that cause dullness, stiffness, and fading. This results in brighter, softer clothes, less detergent use, and longer fabric life. 

Filtered water also allows detergent to work more effectively, rinses clothes more thoroughly, and prevents mineral buildup in fabrics. The result is fresher, more vibrant, longer-lasting clothes, and better care for everything you wash.

 

Cooking

Cooking with clean water not only makes your food healthier, but also enhances the flavor. By removing common impurities such as chlorine, sulfur, or lead, filtered water eliminates weird flavors and odors, allowing the ingredients’ true tastes to shine.

Filtered water also enhances texture in items like rice, pasta, and baked goods by improving gluten formation and yeast activity. This ultimately leads to more vibrant colors, fluffier textures, and cleaner-tasting dishes. Additionally, it protects appliances and utensils from mineral buildup, allowing them to last much longer.

 

Conclusion

As you celebrate love this February, it’s important to remember to show yourself some care as well. Water Unlimited can provide you with a whole-house water filtration system that makes self-care simple and effective. You already use water in so many different ways throughout your day, why not elevate those daily routines and use it to become the healthiest and cleanest version of yourself during this month of love.

Start Your Year off Right with Clean Water: How to be a Healthier Version of Yourself

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Most people enter the New Year with a resolution to be a healthier version of themselves. For many, that means big lifestyle changes, but one of the more simple and effective steps you can take is improving the quality of the water in your household. Clean, filtered water will make a notable difference in you and your family’s health, comfort, and overall well-being throughout the New Year.

 

Bacteria

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that there are over 12 million cases of waterborne acute gastrointestinal illness annually in the United States alone. These illnesses are often caused by bacteria, viruses, and protozoa that contaminate the water supply, often without any visible warning. Even with the advanced state-of-the-art treatment plants, it is nearly impossible to completely eliminate every microbial pathogen before water reaches your home.

These contaminants can contribute to autoimmune diseases, stomach illnesses, fatigue, and even dehydration. That is why, as you move into the New Year,  it is a good idea to contact a professional to get a water analysis for your household. Testing your water can help you identify harmful bacteria and take the necessary steps to remove it, ultimately protecting your health and peace of mind. 

 

Hygiene

Becoming a healthier version of yourself isn’t just about what you consume, but also how you care for your body everyday. Water filtration isn’t just for drinking water. Water plays a role in nearly every hygiene routine such as brushing your teeth, showering, washing your hands, doing laundry, and more. 

Unfiltered, or “Hard,” water can often interfere with these daily tasks. Unfiltered water can cause dry hair, dry skin, staining of appliances, irritated scalp, and more. If you want to feel cleaner than you ever have before, consider a whole-house filtered water installation to improve the quality of every drop of water you use in your daily routines.

If you’re looking to elevate your hygiene in the New Year, and truly feel the difference, filtered water is a great place to start.

 

Wellness

Wellness is a major part of any health-focused New Year resolution, and clean water supports wellness in ways people often overlook. By clearing the bacteria previously mentioned, filtered water allows for better digestion, healthier organs, and a stronger immune system. This will simultaneously help increase your energy levels, making it much easier to stay active and engaged throughout the day. 

Clean water will also make you drink more water due to the improved taste, which boosts hydration and supports cognitive function, skin health, and overall mood. Even your cooked food will improve when you use filtered water in place of tap. 

All of these seemingly small benefits will add up, helping you feel healthier from the inside out.

Start your New Year off right with a simple step towards better health. Request a free water analysis HERE to determine if installing a whole home water filter is the right step for your household this New Year.

A Year in Water: Trends in Water Quality and Filtration to Watch in the New Year

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The future of clean water grows more promising everyday, and it starts with you. Here at Water Unlimited we are entering the new year with the goal of making 2026 a year defined by clean, filtered, water for all. To help make that vision a reality, we’ve highlighted key trends in water quality and filtration for you to keep an eye on in the year ahead. 

These trends will keep you happy, healthy, and clean going into 2026:

  • Water Softeners
  • Whole House Water Treatment Systems
  • Water analysis’

Trends

Water Softeners: A common water problem that people come across is “hard water.” Hard water is water with high levels of dissolved calcium, magnesium, and often iron. Whether from a private well or a municipal supply, most homes experience hard water and are unaware of its costs. Those costs being, dry skin and hair, bathtub rings, spots on glassware, silverware, and fixtures, as well as dull and dingy clothing. Additionally, hard water can lead to reduced performance and a shortened lifespan of water-using appliances.

This can easily be solved by utilizing a water softening system. Soft water is water with low levels of the dissolved minerals that are present in “hard” water. At Water Unlimited our Kinetico water softeners are expertly engineered for flawless performance. This ensures your family is receiving soft water that gives you cleaner dishes and clothes, softer skin and hair, and longer lasting pipes and appliances. 

 

Whole House Water Treatment Systems: With increasing concerns and questions over municipal water, whole-house filtration systems are in high demand. These systems offer effective solutions for filtering contaminants, eliminating odors, and ensuring safe drinking water throughout your home. Whole-house filtration not only enhances water quality but also protects appliances and plumbing systems, giving them longer lifespans. These innovative systems at Water Unlimited are designed to deliver reliable performance without compromising your budget.

Our Kinetico Whole House Water Systems are designed to restore clarity and freshness to your water. They provide tailored solutions to your specific water problems without imposing significant demands on your time or budget. Depending on your water quality, one or more systems may be required to ensure your water remains pristine.

 

Water Analysis: It is difficult to know exactly how clean your water is and what kind of filtration you need. That is why it is important to get a water analysis done at your home in order to realize the healthiest version of yourself in the new year. At Water Unlimited, we offer customers a free, comprehensive, water analysis. The information that you gain from your analysis will allow you to make informed decisions about water treatment solutions, something that is personal to every home. 

Keeping up with water quality and filtration trends will allow you to better understand the state of your water and what to do to improve it. Here at Water Unlimited we want you to go into the new year as the healthiest version of yourself, and that starts with understanding the water you use everyday. 

Gratitude for our Community: How Water Unlimited Gives Back

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At Water Unlimited, we are committed not only to going above and beyond with our exceptional service but also to contributing to the well-being of the Reno-Sparks area. We believe in building a strong community, and we’re committed to contributing to local prosperity and well-being because, just like you, this is our home. 

We proudly support multiple causes throughout the area and focus our efforts on groups close to our hearts: 

  • Veterans Guest House
  • Food Bank of Northern Nevada
  • Reno-Sparks Pop Warner

Organizations We Support

Veterans Guest House: The Veterans Guest House began in response to the growing need for overnight lodging for veterans and their families seeking medical care in the Reno-Sparks area. Without this support, many veteran families would sleep in their cars or forgo the medical care they need. Today, the house serves up to 33 individuals per night and provides additional resources so that veteran families can focus on what matters most, their health. The Veterans Guest House has served over 1,500 veterans with more than 8,000 nights stayed and more than 13,000 meals served. We are proud to support the Veterans Guest House’s mission to promote the health of veterans and their families by providing a warm, inviting temporary home and access to the medical care they need.

Food Bank of Northern Nevada: The Food Bank of Northern Nevada connects families and individuals to the food and resources they need to thrive. Working with more than 140 partner agencies and through direct service programs, we create opportunities for over 160,000 neighbors each month to access fresh, nourishing meals. This includes children, seniors, and others working toward brighter futures. For more than 40 years, the Food Bank of Northern Nevada has proudly served northern Nevada and the eastern Sierra in California, providing over 23.1 million meals, fueling resilience and well-being across our communities.

Reno-Sparks Pop Warner: Reno-Sparks Pop Warner, Inc. is a non-profit youth organization for football, cheer, and dance athletes supporting youth athletes ages 5 to 15. Reno-Sparks Pop Warner’s philosophy is to develop well-rounded youths who learn not only the fundamentals of football and cheerleading, but also the importance of education, good sportsmanship, honesty, courage, and respect for authority, while at the same time, having a memorable experience that will last a lifetime.

At Water Unlimited, your satisfaction and our community’s health are our top priorities. Together, we’re building a stronger, healthier Reno-Sparks one drop at a time.

Don’t Be Scared of What’s Hiding In Your Water

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Chemicals, harmful minerals, bacteria, and more are lurking in the water supply. Not to fear, water filtration is here to save you!

While often invisible, contaminants can have significant implications for both your health and the integrity of your home’s plumbing system.

Common residential water system contaminants:

  • Chlorine: Although chlorine is used to eliminate bacteria, consumption in high quantities can be harmful, leading to issues such as dry skin, eye irritation, and respiratory problems. There is also evidence that long-term exposure to chlorine by-products may increase the risk of cancer. Corrosive chemicals like chlorine deteriorate plumbing and appliances, leading to future issues.
  • Nitrates: Nitrates enter the water system from agricultural and landscaping runoff and can interfere with the blood’s ability to carry oxygen, especially in infants. For adults, long-term exposure to high nitrate levels has been linked to an increased risk of certain cancers.
  • Bacteria and Viruses: Microbial contaminants like bacteria and viruses can enter the water supply through sewage leaks, contaminated wells, or broken pipes. These pathogens can cause a range of illnesses, from mild stomach upset to severe, life-threatening conditions like E. coli or Giardia infections.
  • Minerals: Many areas experience high mineral concentration in their water, referred to as “hard water.” In appropriate concentrations, many minerals are essential for your health. When consuming highly mineralized water, you are unable to regulate the quantity of minerals you ingest. Hard water can lead to irritated skin and inefficient product performance, as well as build-up in plumbing and appliances.

What to do?

  • Test your water: The only way to know what’s in your water is to test it. Request a free water analysis HERE to determine if installing a whole-home water filter is the right step for your home.
  • Install a whole-home water filter: Water filtration systems are designed to remove contaminants from tap water, including chlorine, lead, bacteria, viruses, and pesticides. A good filtration system removes or reduces these contaminants, giving your family convenient access to clean, fresh water that supports overall health. Whether you’re using it for drinking, cooking, or even for your pets, cleaner water means fewer toxins entering your body and your home.
  • Inspect your plumbing and appliances: Regularly inspect and maintain your home’s plumbing system and appliances to identify existing corrosion, leaks, or other issues. Keeping up with the ill effects of water contaminants will prevent larger issues in the future.

Although the thought of consuming contaminated water is scary, it doesn’t have to be. Modern water filtration systems are highly proficient at removing a wide variety of contaminants from water to provide healthy water to your home.