If you live in Dillsburg, PA, or the surrounding areas, you likely have well water running through your home, which is harder than municipal water. Hard water forms when water passes through limestone, chalk, or gypsum, picking up calcium and magnesium. Older homes with aging pipes are more prone to mineral buildup, and even some homes on municipal water can experience hard water if the local supply is naturally high in calcium and magnesium.
Signs You May Have Hard Water
For homeowners unsure whether their home has hard water, here are several signs to look for.
- White or chalky buildup on faucets, showerheads, or tiles
- Soap scum or difficulty lathering
- Spots on dishes and glassware
- Dry skin or hair after bathing
- Reduced water flow in older pipes or appliances
How Hard Water Damages Plumbing
There are several drawbacks when it comes to homes that have hard water. Let’s take a look at how hard water damages plumbing in Dillsburg homes.
Pipe Buildup and Blockages
Over time, the minerals in hard water can accumulate inside your pipes as a hard, chalky substance called scale. This buildup narrows the diameter of your pipes, slowing water flow and increasing pressure on your plumbing system. When it’s left unchecked, it can cause leaks, or even pipe bursts, leading to expensive repairs and water damage in your home.
Water Heater Inefficiency
Hard water doesn’t just cause problems in your pipes. It can also take a toll on your water heater. Minerals build up at the bottom of the tank, forming a barrier between the heating element and your water. This causes your heater to work overtime to heat your water, which can lead to increased energy bills. When left ignored, that buildup can wear out your water heater more quickly, potentially leading to a costly replacement sooner than you’d like.
Appliance Wear and Tear
Hard water can be tough on appliances that use water, such as dishwashers, washing machines, and even your coffee maker. Minerals build up inside, clogging valves and coating heating elements, which makes them work harder than they should. Over time, this can wear them out more quickly, leading to more repairs or even replacements than you’d like. Installing a whole-home water softener or maintaining it regularly can help protect your appliances and keep your home running smoothly.
What You Can Do About It
Ways you can improve your plumbing in Dillsburg, PA include:
- Have your water tested to determine if a water treatment system is right for your home
- Install a water softener to remove excess calcium and magnesium before it enters your plumbing.
- Flush your water heater once a year to help remove mineral and sediment buildup.
- Schedule routine plumbing inspections to help catch sediment and mineral buildup early on, preventing major damage.
Choose Griffith Plumbing Services
For plumbing and HVAC service you can trust, call Griffith Plumbing Services. Our team is familiar with the Dillsburg area and can quickly identify the root cause of the issue.
Give us a call today!