Hard water is a common problem, but many homeowners still don’t understand what it is or why it’s important. When water is considered hard, it is full of dissolved minerals like calcium, magnesium, and iron. These minerals don’t just make the water taste or smell odd. They also build up on surfaces where water flows or splashes, resulting in deposits that can be hard or impossible to remove. Understanding the many possible negative effects of hard water will be enough to convince you to let us here at Pilot Plumbing fix the problem for you.
Higher Energy Bills
Magnesium deposits in particular tend to build up in the water heater of your home. These chalky deposits cover the heating element, reducing the efficiency of the heat transfer to the water. This can occur in other appliances, either blocking the flow of water through hoses and tubes or interfere with heating elements. The end result is higher energy bills on a monthly basis. Dealing with hard water can result in long-term savings in this way.
Appliance Repairs
Not only will appliances perform less efficiently when covered in hard water deposits, but they also experience more wear and tear. You’ll spend more to repair and maintain your water heater, dishwasher, and other water-reliant appliances. Even your dishes are likely to need replacement sooner after years of being washed in hard water.
Difficult Bathing and Washing
One of the most personally bothersome side effects of hard water is problems when bathing or washing items. Soap becomes gummy and doesn’t like to form suds when mixed with the minerals in hard water. When it is time for rinsing, the residue doesn’t like to come off the skin or surface. Many people are amazed at the difference when taking the first shower after installing a whole house water softening system.
Clogged and Corroded Pipes
When the mineral levels are high enough in the water supply, mineral deposits begin building up in the pipes themselves. This can occur in both the freshwater supply lines and the drainage pipes carrying waste away. Clogs in the drain pipes are more common, but clogged supply lines are annoying because they slowly restrict water flow and reduce pressure. Eventually, you may end up with nothing coming through a particular pipe or tap at all. If you still have metal pipes, you may find them leaking as the minerals react with the surface to cause corrosion.
Impeded Water Flow
Even if the pipes supplying or draining a feature in your home don’t clog up, the hard water may still impede the water flow more directly. Mineral deposits in faucet aerators and shower heads are the most common cause of low water pressure complaints. Replacing the fixtures may temporarily restore flow, but the deposits will return quickly. Solve the problem more permanently with a water softener.
Hard water is more than just a hassle, it’s a hazard. Protect your home and appliances by contacting us here at Pilot Plumbing for help. We’re knowledgeable about all the latest water softening systems to help you make the right choice.
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