How Hard Water Affects Household Items

What is Hard Water?

Hard water typically contains a high level of mineral content and is characterised by elevated levels of calcium and magnesium salts.

It is a common issue in Perth and West Australian households and it can affect various aspects of daily life.

If you’re curious about the implications of hard water on your home, keep reading. We’ll also provide practical solutions for identifying, preventing, and managing its effects.

Identifying Hard Water

Hard water often leaves behind noticeable signs so you should be able to detect it easily if you know what to look out for.

If you’ve ever found spots on your drinking glasses, shower screens, or plants after they’ve dried, you might be dealing with hard water.

Another indicator is the reduced lathering of soap; if you find yourself using more soap than usual to create a foamier lather, your water might be hard.

So the good news is that identifying hard water isn’t too difficult .

And the even better piece of news is that the solution to a hard water problem is simple as well – installing a residential water econditioner.

sink with hard water running from faucet

Hard Water Effects On Household Items

One of the main ways that hard water affects household items is Calcium deposits. Calcium deposits on surfaces occur when spots are left behind as a result of hard water.

Here are some of the ways hard water can affect things in your homes:

  • Dishwashers:
    • Scale Build-up: The minerals in hard water, primarily calcium and magnesium, can accumulate inside the dishwasher. Over time, this build-up can affect the performance of spray arms and nozzles.
    • Reduced Cleaning Efficiency: Hard water can interfere with the detergent’s ability to clean effectively. This may result in cloudy glassware, spotted dishes, and a generally less effective cleaning process.
    • Certain dishwashers will come with suggestions on managing the effects of hard water. Before installing a new dishwasher, you should investigate if the area (you plan to install the dishwasher in) has any evidence of hard water. There are dishwashers that are better suited to hard water areas and should be used if hard water is evident.
  • Washing Machines:
    • Scale in Pipes and Drums: The heating element and internal pipes of washing machines are susceptible to scale build-up. This can reduce the efficiency of heating water and eventually lead to clogs.
    • Clothes Quality: Hard water may cause clothes to become stiff and faded over time due to the minerals not rinsing out properly.
  • Water Heaters:
    • Reduced Efficiency: The heating elements in water heaters can accumulate scale, reducing their efficiency. This means the water heater needs more energy to heat water to the desired temperature, resulting in higher energy bills.
    • Shortened Lifespan: Continuous exposure to hard water can lead to the degradation of the water heater’s components, potentially shortening its lifespan.
  • Coffee Makers:
    • Scale in Components: Coffee makers, especially those that use a heating element, can accumulate scale in the water reservoir and internal pipes. This can affect water flow and the brewing process.
    • Unpleasant Taste: Hard water can alter the taste of coffee, as the minerals can interfere with the extraction of flavours from coffee grounds.
  • Kettles:
    • Scale on Heating Elements: Hard water can cause scale build-up on the heating element of kettles. This reduces the efficiency of the heating process and may result in longer boiling times.
    • Unpleasant Residue: The scale left behind by hard water can settle on the interior of the kettle, affecting the taste and appearance of the water boiled.
    • There’s a quick and simple way to reduce build up inside your kettle. Simply insert a lemon into your kettle, fill with water and boil. This should break down any stubborn scale. Refill before next use.

Hard water could also cause scale build-up in your hot water system. To prevent this, consider releasing the pressure valves for a few seconds each month. If you’re not sure how to safely do this, consult a hot water system professional.

Ecosoft  recommends the use of cleaning products that remove calcium, lime residue, and scale from benchtops, appliances, toilets, sinks, tiles, bathtubs, and glass. To clean domestic appliances, you can also use bicarbonate soda and vinegar-based cleaning products.

How Can I Avoid Hard Water?

The best way to completely avoid hard water is by installing a residential water econditioner.

Hard water is a common concern that can impact the aesthetics and functionality of your home. By being aware of the signs and implementing practical solutions such as using water conditioners and following maintenance tips, you can enjoy the benefits of softened water and protect your appliances and surfaces from the negative effects of hard water.

Here at Ecosoft, we have a range of fantastic residential water econditioners to suit your needs, and effectively treat, prevent and remove damaging minerals caused by hard water.

Shop our residential range of water econditioners here today.

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