Did you know that the Cincinnati water that flows from your faucets may be causing damage to your home’s plumbing and appliances? Cincinnati’s water supply is considered "hard," meaning it contains high levels of minerals like calcium and magnesium. And while hard water is safe to drink and use, it can have a negative impact on your appliances and plumbing system.
Over time, this mineral buildup can lead to expensive repairs and decreased efficiency. But it doesn't have to. Below, we explain how hard water affects your plumbing and what you can do about it.
What is hard water?
Hard water refers to water that contains high concentrations of dissolved minerals, mainly calcium and magnesium. While hard water isn't dangerous to your health, it can create some serious issues in your home.
In Cincinnati, the water supply often has a hardness level that exceeds the recommended guidelines. This means that every time you run water through your pipes, it leaves behind traces of these minerals. Over time, the effects on your plumbing can become cause for concern.
Hard water can damage your your plumbing and appliance pipes - Over time, minerals in hard water build up inside pipes, creating clogs and reducing water flow. This condition, known as "scale buildup," can eventually cause pipes to corrode and rupture. Not only is this costly to repair, but it can also lead to water leaks, property damage, and a potential need for a full plumbing system overhaul.
Water heaters - Hard water is especially problematic for water heaters. The minerals that build up in the tank can create a thick, hard-to-remove layer of sediment. Over time, it can lead to overheating, corrosion, and even cause the water heater to breakdown to the point of needing it replaced.
Fixtures - Over time, hard water deposits can make your fixtures look dull and worn, no matter how hard you scrub or how often you clean. And over time, mineral buildup can cause significant damage to your fixtures, requiring costly replacements.
Dishwashers - Hard water can leave mineral deposits on your dishes, resulting in spots or a cloudy, filmy appearance. Over time, minerals can accumulate inside your dishwasher, causing it to work less efficiently.
Washing machines - Buildup of minerals inside the washing machine can affect its performance and cause wear and tear. In fact, hard water can even cause the machine’s heating element to corrode, leading to potential breakdowns.
What can you do about hard water?
Water softeners - Installing a water softener is one of the most effective ways to combat the issues caused by hard water. These systems work by replacing calcium and magnesium ions with sodium or potassium, which eliminates the mineral buildup in your water. A water softener can protect your appliances, fixtures, and plumbing from the damaging effects of hard water.
Descaling agents - These products break down the minerals and prevent them from accumulating, keeping your appliances running efficiently.
Professional plumbing services - If you already have mineral buildup in your pipes or appliances, a professional plumber can help by flushing your pipes or removing scale. Scheduling regular plumbing maintenance is a great way to check for hard water damage and find solutions to fix any issues.
Hard water doesn’t have to wreak havoc on your home. Let the team at Allied Reddi-Rooter find the best hard water solutions to keep your appliance and plumbing in top shape for years to come.