The Impact of Hard Water on Your Plumbing System

Updated onFeb 12, 2025

Are you too bothered by the low supply of water in your household?

I understand that you are experiencing difficulties due to the low supply of water, which is caused by the blockage created by hard water.

This doesn’t just affect your house plumbing system, but also affects your skin and hair, fades clothes, and can result in cleaning problems.

So the question arises here, what is “Hard Water”

When the water comes from rocks and soil with a high concentration of Calcium, magnesium, and other minerals, it determines the hardness of water and is measured in Grains per Gallon (GPG).

It can be observed in certain specific locations, including St. George (US), the United Kingdom, and Australia. 

Here you will come to know about how hard water can affect your Housewares.

Why Hard Water Shortens the Life of Water Heaters

Do you think what makes the water heater explode?

If you don’t know, allow me to tell you that hard water is one of the reasons which is responsible for machine failure.

It happens when a sediment layer forms at the bottom of the tank as water flows through it over time. With time, the layer thickens and creates an insulating barrier that absorbs the heat and makes the heater work harder by consuming more energy to heat the water.

tank

This extra pressure leads to sky-high bills and reduces the machine’s life too.

Excessive sediment buildup can damage the heating element and result in overheating, thus, pushing you to change the heating appliances at frequent intervals of time.

If you’re looking for a service that offers water heater sediment removal St. George has quite a few options. Local plumbing professionals can assess the condition of your water heater, perform deep cleanings, and recommend solutions to prevent future buildup. 

How Hard Water Clogs Your Pipes Over Time

Hard Water Clogs Your Pipes Over Time

Experiencing the low water pressure in your showers and taps?

Here is the answer,

If the water flows continuously, it blocks the pipes. The gradual accumulation of the mineral reduces the space for water to pass through it and also imbalances the pressure that can troublesome household tasks.

abundance of calcium and magnesium

ARE YOU AWARE OF THIS? The abundance of calcium and magnesium means that taking a shower or a bath can leave your skin feeling dry. The water can’t nourish your skin or hair, so when you dry your skin it may start to feel a little chapped and your hair can become brittle and knot up easily.

This build-up is very similar to cholesterol clogging arteries. The more the deposit, the more restricted the flow becomes. If this is left unaddressed, a plumber may need to remove the buildup or replace the pipes entirely, both of which can be expensive.

The Hidden Damage to Faucets and Shower heads 

Damage to Faucets and Shower heads

How would you feel if the water suddenly stopped flowing while you were cleaning the utensil or bathing?

I know this irritates me the most. 

These are the first places where we noticed the hard water issues. It happens due to the white chalky residue that appears around Faucets and Showers.  

The scale build-up over the plumbing systems can cause poor water circulation, leading to dishes that are not properly cleaned.

When it contact with metal surfaces, they react chemically as time goes on it damages the fixtures as the formation of rust or tarnish results in corrosion which weakens the system and makes water toxic for drinking.

Corrosion

The corrosion of household plumbing can leach toxic metals like lead and copper from the plumbing and into the drinking water. Lead exposure is especially dangerous for children and pregnant women, but can affect the health of all people. 

Other problems can include leaking plumbing, greenish stains in fixtures, and unpleasant tastes. In some cases, replacing shower heads and faucets more frequently becomes a necessity in homes with hard water.

Why Hard Water Makes Dishwashers and Washing Machines Less Efficient

We observed that after some time the dishwasher and laundry machine did not work efficiently, due to the deposit of clogs or damage to various components, leading to decreased performance and increased energy usage.

 Washing Machines

The machine relies on the water pressure and detergent to clean. So, the hardness of water impacts on the machines as follows:

  • Mineral Storage

            It deposits on the surface of the heating element, water inlet valves, and drum, making a

            a layer of plaque that insulates and prevents proper heat transfer.  

  • Reduced water flow

clogging makes the pipes restrict the flow of water, which impacts  the washing process.

  • Detergent shortage

            The minerals in hard water react with soap and detergent, preventing them from forming    

             a proper lather and leaves stains on dishes and clothes.

  • Usage of electricity 

               The heating element requires more electricity and time as a result of scale formation. 

  • Wear and tear 

              The constant use of the appliances puts stress on them, directing them toward damage and    

              potential breakdown.

Investing in a Water Softener for Long-Term Protection

Water Softener for Long-Term Protection

I personally recommended the water softeners because they remove the magnesium and calcium ions through the process of “ion exchange” by replacing them with the sodium ions this process “softens” the water and decreases the impact on the plumbing system. This is a very effective method as it: 

  • Saves money
  • Protect your hair and skin
  • Stainless and clean clothes
  • Neat and shiny dishes 
  • Cut down on cleaning time