Hard water can have adverse effects on the health of the home plumbing system. It contains minerals like calcium and magnesium that build up over time, leading to scaly deposits in pipes, fixtures, and appliances. Hard water is specifically damaging for the water heater. It impacts all types of water heaters and makes it difficult for them to work efficiently.Â
Hard water’s effects on water heaters
In water heaters powered by electricity, the mineral build-up can reduce their effectiveness on the heating elements. For storage tank water heaters that use gas as a fuel, limescale acts as a barrier by forming a layer between the burners and the tank’s water. The build-up makes it difficult for the water heater to maintain the required water temperature.
Tankless water heaters are better when it comes to dealing with hard water. The build-up does happen but is relatively slow when compared to the conventional heaters. Over time, limescale causes the heat exchanger to overheat.Â
Here is how hard water can further negatively affect the water heater’s function:
It decreases the water heater’s efficiency
Hard water makes it tough to keep the water warm for longer, and the heating process takes longer than usual. Also, hard water does not hold lather well, making it difficult to remove soap or shampoo. All this can lead to a spike in the water bills as well and energy bills.
The water heater will require frequent draining
Generally, it is advised to flush the water heater annually to get rid of sediments and other types of build-up. Hard water causes frequent limescale formation, so the heater needs to be drained more often than usual. It is not only inconvenient but also wastes water and money. The draining frequency will depend on the level of hardness in the water.
It reduces the heater’s lifespan
The greater the stress on the water heater, the higher the need to repair and maintain it. It also cuts the heater’s lifespan short by a few years.
The water heater produces strange noises
Hard water is mostly the reason behind the squealing or rumbling sound coming from the water heater. The mineral build-up inside the pipes also affects proper functioning.
Ways to protect the water heater from hard water
It is not impossible to minimize the effects hard water has on the water heater. Installing a water softener in the plumbing to treat the water removes all the minerals before it enters the heater. Regular flushing is another way to get rid of the build-up.
Hard water is a grave problem that can wreak havoc on the water heater. Consult a plumber if there is a hard water problem in the area, and they can offer expert advice on fixing the issue and protecting the water heater.
Royalty Plumbing offers high-quality residential plumbing services in the areas of Las Vegas, Henderson, North Las Vegas, and Summerlin.