A high mineral content is the hallmark of hard water. People around the world deal with it in variable degrees, ranging from extremely mild to your faucet might as well be spitting out rocks. Most homes fall somewhere in the middle. Well water is usually harder than city water, but that isn’t always the case.
Understanding Hard Water and Its Impact
Hard water contains minerals that can accumulate inside your water heater over time. The most common culprit of plumbing issues is calcium. Have you ever been to a cave and seen the rock formations? Yup, this is from hard water, essentially. When hard water is heated, the minerals can form limescale deposits on the heating elements and the interior of the tank. This buildup can lead to various water heater issues, including reduced efficiency, increased energy consumption, and potentially shorter lifespan.
With these things in mind, it’s important to have your water tested for hard water. Sometimes, you might not even need testing. Look around your home for clues. Do you have hard water stains on your dishes? This could look like rings on your dishes or even a flimsy feel. Is there a limescale lining your shower or sink?
Potential Water Heater Issues Caused by Hard Water
Hard water does serious damage to your water heating appliance. It might cause it to quit working altogether. This will require water heater repair from a professional to sort out the issues. The biggest issue is that sediment will fill up the tank, damaging the heating elements inside if you have an electric water heater. It will also reduce the capacity of hot water as there isn’t as much room for the water to go.
Mitigating the Effects of Hard Water
How can you stop hard water and its damaging effects on your hot water, and thus your ability to take a long hot shower?
Regular Maintenance
Perform regular maintenance tasks to minimize the impact of hard water on your water heater. Flushing the tank periodically can help remove sediment and reduce mineral buildup. Consult the manufacturer's guidelines or seek professional assistance to ensure proper flushing techniques.
Water Softening
Consider installing a water softener system to treat the incoming hard water before it reaches your water heater. Water softeners use ion exchange technology to remove minerals from the water, reducing the formation of limescale deposits. There are many water softener manufacturers on the market. Most of these are designed for the whole house. You can either choose a monthly plan with a company or buy your own.
