Many homes have hard water, which can cause long-term damage to plumbing and appliances. Hard water contains minerals like calcium and magnesium, which build up over time. This buildup can affect everything from your pipes to water heaters, washing machines and dishwashers. Let’s understand how hard water impacts your plumbing and appliances and what you can do about it.
Why is Hard Water Harmful?
The minerals in hard water might seem harmless, but they lead to various costly issues over time. These minerals deposit inside your plumbing and appliances, making systems work harder, reducing their efficiency and shortening their lifespan. To avoid these problems, installing a water softener can be a smart solution.
Impact on Pipes
The minerals in hard water can settle inside your pipes, creating a layer of scale. Over time, this buildup blocks water flow, leading to clogs and low water pressure. In severe cases, it can cause pipes to corrode or burst. This buildup forces your plumbing system to work harder, which can lead to expensive repairs or replacements.
Water Heaters and Scale Buildup
Water heaters are especially vulnerable to hard water. When water heats up, the calcium and magnesium in hard water settle at the bottom of the tank, forming a thick layer of scale. This makes it harder for the water heater to heat water efficiently, resulting in higher energy bills. Over time, the buildup shortens the heater’s lifespan and causes costly repairs or replacements. Regular maintenance can help, but installing a water softener is the best way to prevent this buildup.
Washing Machines and Reduced Efficiency
Hard water also affects washing machines. The minerals can build up in hoses, reducing water flow and causing the machine to wear out faster. It also makes it harder for detergent to work properly, leaving clothes less clean. Clothes feel stiff, colors fade faster and fabrics break down more quickly due to the rough minerals in the water. At AON Water Technology, we know how important it is to protect your clothes and save money. That’s why our water softeners help clothes stay cleaner, last longer and reduce wear and tear on your washing machine.
Dishwashers and Spotty Dishes
If your dishwasher leaves spots or a cloudy film on your dishes, hard water is likely the cause. The minerals in hard water leave streaks and spots on glasses, plates and silverware. These minerals can also build up inside the dishwasher, clogging spray arms and reducing cleaning efficiency. Over time, this leads to more breakdowns and the need for expensive repairs or replacements.
Install a Water Softener to make more Savings
Installing a water softener can help you avoid expensive repairs and replacements. With softened water, your appliances will work more efficiently, last longer and need fewer repairs. This will help reduce energy costs, as your water heater will run more smoothly and your appliances will last longer, saving you money in the long run.
Protect your home from the damaging effects of hard water by contacting AON Water Technology for expert advice and water filtration solutions. By trusting us you can get top-notch water filtration in Birmingham, AL that will increase the lifespan of your home’s plumbing and appliances.
