What is Hard Water and How Does It Affect Your Plumbing?

In New Zealand, where groundwater in certain regions naturally contains high levels of minerals, hard water is a common concern for many homeowners. When water is classified as “hard,” it means it contains a high concentration of dissolved minerals, mainly calcium and magnesium. As rainwater travels through the earth, it may pass through mineral-rich soils and rocks, especially limestone. These minerals are absorbed into the water, increasing its “hardness” as it continues to flow towards reservoirs or household wells.

The effects of hard water are often easily visible in day-to-day activities. A common indicator is soap residue left on skin, hair, and bathroom surfaces, as hard water does not lather well with soap. This leads to a sticky film that may make it difficult to completely rinse off. If you observe these signs around your home in the Otago region, consult qualified plumbers Dunedin residents’ trust like Mains Plumbers. We can assess your plumbing system, recommend solutions, and help prevent long-term damage.

With this in mind, let’s take a closer look at the ways hard water can negatively impact your plumbing.

1. Mineral and Corrosion Can Build Up in Pipes

One of the most significant effects of hard water is mineral buildup within pipes, which can cause serious plumbing issues over time. As water flows through the pipes, calcium and magnesium particles settle on the inner walls, gradually creating a thick, hard layer known as limescale. This buildup restricts water flow by narrowing the diameter of the pipes, leading to reduced water pressure throughout the house. 

Over time, limescale can also react with the pipe material. This causes corrosion that weakens pipes.

Together, mineral deposits and corrosion make pipes more susceptible to leaks and can even lead to bursts under high pressure. 

2. Water Quality Is Reduced

The presence of minerals in hard water affects the quality of the water itself. Hard water can have a noticeable taste that many find unpleasant, with some describing it as metallic or chalky. This can impact drinking and cooking, as the minerals in hard water may alter the taste of food and beverages. 

Additionally, hard water may have adverse effects on skin and hair health. The minerals can strip away natural oils, leaving skin feeling dry and itchy. It also makes hair feel dull and rough. For families who rely on tap water for drinking, cooking, and hygiene, these quality issues can be particularly inconvenient. If you’re experiencing similar concerns, consider looking into water treatment solutions to improve household water quality.

3. Plumbing Fixtures Can Get Damaged

Hard water can also significantly affect the lifespan and appearance of plumbing fixtures, such as taps, showerheads, and valves. That’s because mineral deposits from hard water form a hard, chalky buildup on these surfaces over time. This buildup affects the appearance of fixtures, making them look dull and stained. It can also clog small openings, reducing water flow and pressure. The more buildup that forms, the harder it is to clean, often requiring chemical descalers or professional treatments. 

Moreover, the mineral deposits can weaken the fixtures and make them more prone to wear and tear. In such cases, homeowners may find themselves replacing fixtures more frequently, adding unexpected costs to household maintenance.

4. Water Heaters and Boilers Have Lower Energy Efficiency

Water heaters and boilers are among the most affected appliances in homes with hard water. As mineral deposits accumulate on the heating elements and inner walls of these appliances, they form an insulating layer that hinders heat transfer. This means the heater has to work much harder to warm the water to the desired temperature, consuming more energy in the process. The extra workload and heat strain on the heating elements can also lead to premature wear and shorten the lifespan of the appliance. 

5. You May Need Frequent Maintenance Works

For homes with hard water, regular maintenance becomes a necessity to keep the plumbing system in good working order. Pipes and fixtures often require periodic descaling to remove the mineral buildup, while appliances like water heaters may need professional cleaning to restore their efficiency. 

Doing these can be both time-consuming and expensive. However, the opposite would be more severe plumbing problems, which would be more expensive to deal with. 

While hard water is generally harmless to human health, it can have significant consequences for household plumbing, leading to ongoing plumbing issues, costly repairs, and frequent maintenance.

If you’re dealing with hard water and want to protect your plumbing, consider consulting a professional plumber today. Here at Mains Plumbers, we can help assess your water quality, suggest effective solutions, and help safeguard your home from hard water damage. We also offer gas fitting and drainlaying services, as well as emergency plumbing services for more immediate plumbing needs. Contact us now and preserve your plumbing and enjoy better water quality.