Hard water is a widespread issue that many homeowners face, even if they aren’t entirely aware of it. Generally speaking, “hard” water contains a higher amount of minerals, such as magnesium and calcium. The hardness of water is calculated in grains per gallon (GPG), and water is usually considered hard if it has more than 1 GPG.
There are many common problems caused by hard water buildup, and if you encounter them, you likely want to fix the issue as fast as possible. Fortunately, there are several ways you can treat hard water. Here are five of the most common hard water-related problems and potential solutions you can try.
Problem #1: Bothersome Mineral Buildup
Although hard water doesn’t require emergency attention, it creates scale buildup that can negatively affect the performance of your drains, showerheads, toilets, appliances, and more. The more scale buildup accumulates, the more it will restrict your water flow and block your water supply.
Mineral buildup is one of the most common problems caused by hard water buildup, but it’s also one of the most bothersome. If you encounter a plumbing problem caused by a blocked pipe or drain, contact a professional that can assist you with a drain pipe replacement or repair.
Problem #2: Continued Skin Irritation
Does your skin feel itchy and dry regularly? Hard water could potentially be to blame. When you take a shower or clean your clothes with hard water, your soap and detergent won’t be able to function like they are supposed to.
Usually, when you shower, the soap you use will completely wash away. However, if you have hard water, that soap won’t be able to dissolve and may irritate your skin. If you’ve discovered that hard water has caused dry and itchy skin or has exacerbated your eczema, hard water solutions can help.
Problem #3: Dirty-Looking Dishware
When you clean your dishes in the dishwasher, you expect them to come out bright and sparkling. However, one of the most common problems caused by hard water buildup is cloudy or spot-covered dishware. Scale deposits can leave behind these unsightly spots and streaks, making you less than eager to indulge in a refreshing beverage. Hard water may also leave your drinking water tasting smelling or tasting strange—two things no homeowner wants to experience.
Problem #4: Persistent Soap Scum
If you’re dealing with a water conditioning problem like hard water, you might find soap scum clinging to your shower curtains, bathtub, and other surfaces in your bathroom or kitchen. This soap scum can keep reappearing, making it a challenge to clean up after.
Problem #5: Water Heater Failure
You count on your water heater to provide hot water while washing your hands, cleaning the dishes, and taking showers. Nonetheless, water heater failure is one of the most common problems caused by hard water buildup—and it can end up costing you greatly.
The minerals in hard water, such as limescale, can gather inside your water heater tank. Since your water heater will heat both the mineral deposits and your water, it will also have to work twice as hard to meet your hot water demands. As a result, your system can fail and need a premature replacement.
Hard Water Solutions You Can Try
Hard water problems in your plumbing system can cause a great deal of irritation and worry for homeowners. If you’re ready to try some hard water solutions, there are various measures you can take.
White Vinegar
Although it won’t solve the problem completely, you can use white vinegar to clean hard water stains. For instance, you can soak your showerheads in white vinegar and scrub them with a toothbrush to remove any accumulated calcium and magnesium. You can also add white vinegar to your dishwasher without any dishes to avoid spotting and streaking.
Cleaning Efforts
Routine cleaning can help avoid scale buildup on your shower doors and bathtub. You can also use chemical cleaning products and other spray cleaners to prevent hard water stains.
Water Treatments
Do you want to solve the problem of hard water for good? Water treatments such as water conditioners and water softeners are the most effective hard water solutions available. Additionally, you can use a water test kit to better understand the hardness of your water according to the GPG scale.
Improve Your Home’s Water Today
Hard water may not be your biggest concern, but the common problems caused by hard water buildup can cause more trouble than they’re worth. If you’ve noticed scale buildup in your home and are ready for hard water solutions, Gold Star is here to help. You can count on us for everything, from water treatment system installations to drain leak fixes and more. Contact us today!
