Hard water contains minerals that can create lime scale build-up in your pipes and appliances. If your water pressure seems harsh or you keep noticing shower wall and sink residue, your home’s pipes may already be damaged. If you do not currently use a descaling water treatment system, you should understand these four ways that lime deposits could be doing harm.
1. Poor Water Characteristics
The water we use comes from surface reservoirs or underground sources. Some areas, such as the Pacific Northwest, are known for their naturally occurring soft water. In other areas, the water passes through and picks up many minerals, including calcium and magnesium, on its way to your home. City treatment plants may filter or treat the water, but your water may have distinct characteristics.
If you do not have a water conditioning, softening, or descaling system, your water may smell or taste somewhat stale. In addition, the high-mineral content of hard water will require you to use more soap and detergent. Soft water has less surface tension, which makes it a better solvent. In addition, it is physically softer and gentler and will not dry out your skin.
Traditional water softeners work well but expel both salt and chloride. They also require continual salt additions and other regular maintenance. A hard water descaler, especially when used with a water conditioner, will give you softer water without the additives.
2. Residue
Hard water may leave trace residue everywhere, from your skin to your sink. This can be avoided with water softeners, where the added sodium ions replace the natural calcium ions. Unfortunately, this means that your drinking water now has a higher salt content. Salt-free descalers instead use an electrical charge to prohibit calcium adhesion and residue. Look for a completely chemical-free solution that will not expel any unwanted additives.
3. Impaired Appliances
Do your appliances tend to run down easily or seem like they do not work as well as they used to? Have you ever hired a plumber to fix your washing machine, only to discover that the slow-flow problem was due to calcium deposits and lime scale build-up? Lime deposits build up over time and can cause slow flow, leaks, corrosion, and complete blockages. Thankfully, you can protect your dishwasher and washing machine from damage by using a hard water descaler.
4. Pipe Damage
Appliances are not the only things at risk when it comes to lime scale damage. High-mineral hard water can generate adhesive deposits that cause blockages and corrosion in the pipes throughout your home. This could mean costly repairs and replacements. All of these side effects and damages are preventable, so take the necessary steps to protect your home today.
