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How Hard Water Affects Your Water Heater

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If you live in an area with hard water, then there's a high chance that you have experienced issues with your water heater. Hard water contains high levels of minerals such as calcium and magnesium, which can cause a wide variety of problems for your appliances, including your water heater. In this blog post, we'll delve into how hard water affects your water heater and what you can do to prevent or mitigate these effects.

Scale Buildup

One of the main ways that hard water affects your water heater is through scale buildup. When hard water is heated, the minerals present start to form a layer of scale on the inside of the tank and pipes. This buildup can reduce the efficiency of your water heater and lead to costly repairs or replacements.

Decreased Lifespan

Scale buildup not only affects the efficiency of your water heater but also decreases its lifespan. The minerals present in hard water can corrode and damage the heating elements and other components of your water heater, leading to premature failure. This means you'll have to replace your water heater more frequently, which can be a significant expense.

Higher Energy Bills

When scale builds up in your water heater, it creates an insulating layer that prevents the heat from transferring efficiently. As a result, your water heater has to work harder and longer to bring the water to the desired temperature, increasing energy consumption and your monthly utility bills. This is not only bad for the environment but also your wallet.

Sediment Accumulation

Aside from scale buildup, hard water can also cause sediment accumulation in your water heater. Sediments such as sand, dirt, and rust particles can settle at the bottom of the tank and decrease its capacity, resulting in less hot water available for use. Moreover, these sediments can cause damage to the heating elements and other components, leading to costly repairs or replacements.

Tips to Prevent or Mitigate Effects

There are a few things you can do to prevent or mitigate the effects of hard water on your water heater. One option is to install a water softener, which removes the minerals from hard water through a process called ion exchange. This will not only prevent scale buildup but also improve the efficiency and lifespan of your water heater.

Another tip is to regularly flush out your water heater to remove any accumulated sediments. You can do this by turning off the power supply, connecting a garden hose to the drain valve, and letting the hot water flow into a bucket until it runs clear. This should be done at least once a year for optimal results.

Contact a local company to learn more, like George Morlan Plumbing.


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