Additionally, hard water can cause significant damage to your appliances and fixtures, resulting in the need for costly repairs. If you find that your glassware is cloudy, clothes have white mineral stains, or shower heads have a visible, flaky buildup, you may be dealing with hard water.
Read on to learn five ways hard water affects your plumbing system.
1. Scale Buildup
When mineral deposits collect in the plumbing system, water flow is impeded. This hard white buildup can be found in faucets, showerheads, washing machines, and other pipes where water is expected to move with ease.
2. Corrosion
Corrosion may be caused by the destructive properties contained in high levels of calcium and magnesium — wreaking havoc on your pipes. The presence of these hardened minerals can lead to water leaks, discolored water, and blockages.
3. Clogged Drains
Soap scum results when hard water and soap intersect. As water flow is obstructed by hard water, blockages and plugs reduce water pressure. Clogged drains can also lead to steady drips, mold growth, and indoor flooding.
4. Water Heater Damage
The corroding power of hard water can shorten the lifespan of an operable water heater. Since expensive plumbing appliances like washing machines and dishwashers rely on your hot water heater to efficiently operate, hard water can also increase your utility bills.
5. Reduced Water Quality
Hard water competes with the detergents, shampoos, and soaps that you use to clean things around the house, so it makes your appliances work harder. While you can still drink the water, it does not effectively remove dirt, oil, and other substances, resulting in lower water quality.
Hard Water Solutions
At Canady’s, we have been serving residential customers in and around Savannah, GA, for over 30 years. We provide quality plumbing repairs, maintenance, and system installations using advanced technology that saves you time and money. We also know a thing or two about how you can get ahead of plumbing issues associated with hard water. Contact us today to schedule a water quality test, or to request a quote for a repair or installation.