Is North Carolina’s Soft Water Harming Your Water Heater?

You might be surprised to learn that Durham’s tap water is considered soft. While this is great for your hair and skin, it can have interesting effects that may or may not warrant water heater repair in Durham, NC. Let’s delve into the soft water situation and how it impacts your trusty appliance.

The Downside of Soft Water

Soft water lacks minerals like calcium and magnesium, which can be a double-edged sword for your water heater.

Increased Soap Consumption: Soft water makes it easier to lather up, but it can also lead to a buildup of soap scum in your water heater tank. This can reduce efficiency and can be a recipe for untimely water heater replacement.

Rapid Tank Corrosion: The lack of minerals in soft water can act like a solvent, accelerating the corrosion of the steel tank in traditional **water heaters**. This can lead to leaks and premature failure.

The Upside of Soft Water

There are some silver linings to soft water and water heaters:

Reduced Scale Buildup: Hard water minerals can cause scale buildup inside your water heater, reducing its heating capacity. Soft water minimizes this issue, potentially extending the heater’s efficiency.

Less Frequent Maintenance: With less scale buildup, you might require less frequent water heater maintenance compared to areas with hard water. 

Finding the Middle Ground

While soft water can pose some challenges, there are ways to mitigate them and ensure your water heater lasts for its full service lifespan.

Regular Maintenance: Schedule regular inspections and maintenance with a qualified water heater installation professional to check for sediment buildup and ensure optimal performance of your water heater.

Anode Rod Replacement: Anode rods attract corrosion, protecting your water heater tank. Consider replacing them more frequently in soft water conditions.

Water Heater Upgrade: consider a tankless water heater. These units heat water on demand, eliminating the tank corrosion concerns associated with soft water.

Early detection and professional intervention can save you from costly repairs and inconvenient cold showers down the line. If you’re experiencing water heater issues or considering a water heater replacement, don’t hesitate to consult a reputable plumber.

Contact Optimal Plumbing Solutions to schedule an appointment.