How Does Hard Water Affect Your Water Heater?

Hard water is a common problem in many households. Hard water contains high levels of calcium and magnesium, which are minerals that build up over time in your home’s pipes, fixtures, and appliances. Your water heater is no exception to this.

As the go-to team for water heater repair in Durham, NC, Optimal Plumbing Solutions has seen first-hand how hard water can lead to various problems in your water heater unit. Below are some of them:

Reduced Efficiency

The build-up of sediment from hard water can significantly reduce the efficiency of your unit by blocking heat transfer. This will cause it to take additional time and energy to heat the same amount of water, resulting in higher utility bills.

Corrosion

Calcium and magnesium react with the metal parts of the water heater, gradually thinning them out over time. This can lead to leaks or the breakdown of pipes and other components, causing the need for frequent repairs or a complete water heater replacement.

Clogging

Deposits from hard water can clog the pipes, reducing the tankless water heater unit’s flow rate and making it more difficult to get hot water. This can be a major inconvenience, especially during peak times of use.

The best way to prevent hard water damage to your water heater is to have a professional technician install a treatment system such as a water softener or reverse osmosis filter. This, in a way, is an effective form of water heater maintenance that will help improve your unit’s efficiency and service life.

If you think that hard water is causing problems with your water heater, reach out to Optimal Plumbing Solutions. Aside from providing reliable water heater installation, we can also help you ensure that your unit remains in tip-top condition. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.