Texas ranks as the state with the 6th hardest water in the country. If you are a homeowner in the Katy, TX area, you are most likely familiar with the issues of hard water. One of the places that sees the biggest impact of hard water is your home plumbing system.
What Is Hard Water?
Water is deemed “hard” based on the high levels of minerals present, such as magnesium and calcium. Most areas with hard water have a high amount of limestone in the soil. This causes an increase in calcium levels in the water.
How Hard Water Impacts Plumbing
High mineral content in hard water can lead to scaling. These calcium deposits show up as white or yellow build up around faucets and can clog showerheads and drain screens. The same build-up visible on the outer workings of your plumbing is also occurring inside the pipes.
When minerals accumulate inside of your plumbing pipes, you may see a reduction in water pressure and an increase in clogs. This narrowing of the pipes can also increase pressure on the pipe itself, as water tries to travel through the pipe. The result can be cracks or leaks at the pipe joints.
Will Hard Water Affect My Water Heater?
Having hard water definitely has an impact on your water heater. The increased level of calcium and other minerals can shorten the life of your water heater considerably. This is due to an accumulation of mineral deposits in the tank. This limescale built on the heating elements can also make the unit much less efficient. The increased corrosion can result in leaks to the tank and structural damage to your home.
If you own a tankless water heater, you are still at risk of damage from hard water. Scale can also build on the heat exchanger of a tankless water system
Hard water can also build up on other home appliances such as washing machines and dishwashers. To maintain the life of your plumbing system and your water heater, it is important to have a routine inspection and maintenance performed by a professional plumber.
If you would like more information on hard water issues or would like to set up an inspection of your hot water heater and plumbing system, Mr. Rooter in Katy can help. Contact us today and have an experienced technician evaluate your plumbing system.
Sources:
https://www.scottenglishplumbing.net/blog/the-effects-of-hard-water-on-your-plumbing-system
https://www.rotorooter.com/blog/plumbing/the-many-effects-of-hard-water-2/
https://www.countrysideph.com/blog/the-effects-of-hard-water-on-your-water-heaters/