What Does Hard Water Do to Plumbing Pipes?

For many households, hard water is an unavoidable nuisance.

For many households, hard water is an unavoidable nuisance. But it can cause more problems than just a temporary inconvenience. It can also be detrimental to the home’s plumbing system.

If you’ve wondered what hard water does to pipes and how to protect them, this article has the answers.

What is “hard water” anyway?

Hard water contains highly dissolved minerals, such as calcium and magnesium. These minerals can build up inside plumbing pipes and fixtures, causing various problems.

Over time, the build-up of minerals can cause pipes to become clogged or blocked. This can lead to decreased water pressure and reduced flow. In severe cases, it can even cause complete pipe failure.

Aside from causing problems with plumbing, hard water makes it difficult to get clean laundry or sparkling dishes. It can also leave behind deposits on shower doors and fixtures.

Hardness test kits are available at most hardware stores to determine the severity of the issue. In addition, a whole-house water filtration system will remove the minerals before they can build up in the pipes. Alternatively, softening agents can bind to the minerals and prevent them from sticking to the pipework.

Increased soap residue

The minerals in hard water bind with soap, making it difficult to rinse off. In addition, the soap builds up on plumbing fixtures and pipes, leading to several problems. These include clogged showerheads, washing machine hoses, and dirt on showers and tubs.

Clogged pipes reduce or block water flow

Hard water leaves behind minerals that can build up and clog the pipes. This congestion can lead to reduced water flow and pressure, making the plumbing more inefficient and difficult to use. In extreme cases, complete blockages can occur, preventing water from flowing through the pipes.

Furthermore, congestion may force appliances such as dishwashers and laundry machines to work harder, shortening their lifespan. Appliances and fixtures may fill up with residue and stop functioning correctly. If the pipework appears to be blocked, it’s vital to have them checked by a professional.

Increased stress on pipes, leading to cracks and bursts

In a hard water area, plumbing pipes are under constant pressure. Stressed pipework is prone to cracks and bursts. Hard water can also cause damage to the outside of tubes, as the minerals erode the pipe material. This damage can lead to leaks and subsequent pipe failure.

Safeguard the plumbing system

It’s essential to protect plumbing pipes, such as installing a water softener to remove the minerals from the water before it enters the home. Having a professional plumber inspect the pipework regularly is also a good idea.

Frontier Plumbing of Las Vegas is a full-service commercial and residential plumbing company offering a full spectrum of plumbing services. We are determined to exceed your expectations! Call 702-602-6705 today!