Homeowners in Anthem and the Phoenix Valley area are constantly being challenged by the damage hard water causes their plumbing systems. When the minerals in the water build up in pipes, they calcify and corrode fixtures.

Hard water shortens the life of things like faucets, water heaters, appliances, and valves considerably. When this happens, leaks can develop. Today, we’re going to talk about where this calcification might affect a homeowner the most, and what to do about it. Your plumber weighs in:

Valves

When a valve begins to leak, chances are it’s caused by debris or damage caused by debris, aka our hard water. If you notice a lot of calcification on a valve, it’s going to require replacement soon.

Water heater

Water heaters take the brunt of hard water because they heat the water, and heating causes calcium buildup. The calcium buildup lives at the bottom of the water heater, which is then forced to heat the build-up before it can even begin to heat the water. The recommendation to drain your water heater periodically is to eliminate some of the buildup.

Fixtures

Fixtures can be pricey, and our hard water does a number on them. Cleaning can only eliminate the cosmetic damage. The internal working parts are at the mercy of calcium buildup, which eventually damages them until they begin to leak.

Pipes

Pipes can be fused, and eventually, the calcium build-up can restrict the flow of water. Older pipes can become corroded from the accumulation.

Appliances

Water-using appliances such as the washing machine and dishwasher can be damaged by hard water buildup in the same way as pipes and fixtures. Hard water will also cause them to use an awful lot of soap and can leave a filmy buildup inside the machine.

Solutions

There are a number of effective solutions. We’ve listed some of them below.

Water softener
A water softener or RO can do a lot to prevent mineralization damage to plumbing parts. It can save a homeowner not only the cost of new fixtures, and valves, but can help a water heater last up to twice as long. It can avoid the grief of leaks and emergency plumbing visits. Soft water uses less soap, and doesn’t leave a dingy film, and makes a beautiful lather. It will also make the water feel nice on the skin when washing or showering.
Vinegar
Water appliances can be cleaned using a cup or two of vinegar and running the device through a cycle. Vinegar rinses can be done every few months to keep the buildup low and prevent scale clogs.
Drain water heater
Drain the water heater partially or entirely according to the manufacturer's directions. Draining will prevent much of the buildup that can prematurely age a water heater or make it less efficient.

Hard water can cause leaks, damage fixtures, and shorten the life of appliances which use water. If you have any of these problems or if you want a water system for your home, give me a call! We can help!

If you need a licensed, bonded, insured plumber for your Phoenix area leak or your next plumbing project, call MNS Plumbing today at 602-362-4524.

Hard Water Plumbing Damage