How to prevent your pipework and water appliances from hard water damage
Posted on: 22 January 2018
Not many people think about the type of water that will be supplied to their homes when they are making plans about pipework installation. Places that have a supply of hard water get unique plumbing problems that could be avoided by due diligence before the installation. In case you have noticed signs, such as clogged and dirty pipes, and your appliances are becoming inefficient faster than they should, it is possible that you are dealing with hard water. Below are a few tips that can help you protect your plumbing system from the effects of hard water in the home.
Using water softeners
In case you suspect that you have hard water in your home, you should start by getting a sample to a laboratory for testing. When it is confirmed that you indeed have hard water, start by investing in industrial water softeners. The softeners will help you save the pipework which is already in place from further damage. It will also offer comprehensive protection for all water related appliances in your home as you look for a permanent solution.
Removing the calcium build-ups in the pipes
The other quick-fix that you can employ is manually removing the calcium deposits from the pipes and appliances before they get to a level where they will start destroying your pipework. In case your appliances have started forming scale deposits, it is possible to use items that are commonly found in the home such as vinegar to resolve the problem. Distilled vinegar does a very good job in removing calcium carbonate deposits from your appliances and pipes.
Temperature control
If you have confirmed hard water in your pipework, you should always avoid running hot water through the hot water heater because this also contributes to the fast build-up of scales. The process of mineral precipitation mainly affects the hottest spot in the entire plumbing system. You should also flush the heater and the attached piping often as it removes the scales.
Those are a few quick fixes that you can use before investing in better hard water treatment methods such as getting a mini-softening unit for the water before it gets into the house and using pipes that do not encourage the calcium and magnesium carbonate deposits. The best way to permanently deal with hard water in the home is to call in an expert to assess the level of damage to the system, and then get a replacement piping material which will minimise damage.
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