How Hard Water Damages Your Home Appliances and What You Can Do About It
Living in Goodyear and the Greater Phoenix area means dealing with hard water, which is a common issue in Arizona. According to the U.S. Geological Survey, Arizona has some of the hardest water in the country, with mineral levels often exceeding 180 parts per million (ppm). While hard water is safe to drink, it can cause major problems for your home’s plumbing system and appliances. If left untreated, mineral buildup can lead to costly repairs, inefficiency, and even appliance failure.
What is Hard Water?
Hard water contains high levels of dissolved minerals, primarily calcium and magnesium. As water flows through underground limestone deposits, it picks up these minerals before reaching your home. The hardness of water is measured in grains per gallon (gpg), and anything above 10.5 gpg is considered very hard. In Goodyear, the water hardness levels often range from 12-18 gpg, making it a serious concern for homeowners.
How Hard Water Damages Your Home Appliances
1. Water Heaters Lose Efficiency
Hard water is one of the leading causes of water heater inefficiency. Over time, minerals in hard water settle at the bottom of the tank, forming a thick layer of sediment. This buildup forces the heating element to work harder, increasing energy consumption. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, a water heater with just 1/16 inch of scale buildup can lose up to 12% of its efficiency. If the buildup continues, it can eventually lead to overheating, reduced hot water supply, and premature failure.
2. Dishwashers Clog and Malfunction
If your dishes come out of the dishwasher with cloudy spots or streaks, hard water is likely to blame. The minerals in hard water leave behind residue that can clog the internal components of your dishwasher. Over time, this buildup can lead to blockages in spray arms, reduced water pressure, and eventual pump failure. Hard water also reduces the effectiveness of dish detergent, meaning you need to use more soap to achieve clean results.
3. Washing Machines Wear Out Faster
Washing machines are particularly vulnerable to hard water damage. The minerals in the water can form deposits inside the drum, hoses, and detergent dispenser. This buildup not only reduces the machine’s lifespan but also affects how well it cleans your clothes. Hard water can cause fabrics to feel stiff and dull in color because the minerals prevent detergent from fully dissolving. Studies have shown that washing machines exposed to hard water can wear out 30% faster than those using soft water.
4. Coffee Makers and Kettles Develop Scale
If you’ve ever noticed a chalky white buildup inside your coffee maker or kettle, that’s mineral scale from hard water. The deposits can clog small water lines and reduce the heating efficiency of your appliance. Over time, scale buildup can alter the taste of your coffee or tea and shorten the lifespan of your machine.
5. Plumbing Pipes Get Clogged
Beyond appliances, hard water can wreak havoc on your home’s plumbing system. Mineral deposits accumulate inside pipes, restricting water flow and increasing pressure. This buildup can eventually lead to clogged pipes, leaks, and costly plumbing repairs. The problem is especially common in older homes with galvanized steel pipes, which are more prone to scaling than modern PVC or PEX pipes.
Water Softener is The Solution
A whole-house water softener is the most effective solution for hard water. It works by removing calcium and magnesium through a process called ion exchange, replacing them with sodium or potassium. This prevents scale buildup in your pipes and appliances, extending their lifespan and improving efficiency. Water softeners can reduce energy consumption for water heaters by up to 29% (Battelle Memorial Institute study).
Invest in a Long-Term Solution for Hard Water
Hard water is more than just a nuisance—it can shorten the lifespan of your appliances, reduce efficiency, and increase utility bills. At A Quality HVAC and Plumbing Services LLC, we specialize in water softener installation and plumbing solutions tailored to homes in Goodyear and the Greater Phoenix area. Our team of experts can assess your water quality and recommend the best solutions to protect your home and appliances. Call us today at 623-853-1482 to schedule a consultation!
