If your home has hard water, it can impact your plumbing in more ways than you might think. Sure, you may notice soap scum and cloudy dishes, but over time, hard water can cause serious damage to your plumbing system—especially your drains and water-using appliances.
At Bell Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Electrical, we provide a full line of Denver drain services and plumbing services, including expert drain cleaning, water softener consultation, and hard water solutions. Here’s what you should know about how hard water can damage your plumbing, and what you can do to prevent it.
Read on or give us a call today to talk with one of our Denver plumbers about your hard water issues!
What is Hard Water?
Hard water is water that contains a high concentration of dissolved minerals—primarily calcium and magnesium. As groundwater flows through rock and soil, it picks up these minerals. Even after treatment by your utility company, small amounts often remain.
These minerals don’t pose a health risk, but they can build up inside your pipes, water heater, fixtures, and appliances, leading to a host of plumbing problems over time.
How Hard Water Affects Your Plumbing
Limescale Buildup in Pipes
When hard water flows through your plumbing, it leaves behind limescale, a chalky, white mineral deposit. Over time, these deposits accumulate along the walls of your pipes, gradually narrowing the passage and restricting water flow.
Reduced Water Pressure and Clogs
As limescale thickens, it reduces water pressure throughout your home. Drains can become partially or completely clogged, especially in older metal pipes where mineral buildup sticks more easily.
Damage to Water Heaters and Fixtures
Heating hard water causes minerals to solidify faster, which is why water heaters are especially vulnerable. Limescale forms on heating elements and tank walls, reducing efficiency and causing premature wear. You may notice increased energy bills or your water heater struggling to keep up.
Fixtures like faucets and showerheads can also clog due to mineral deposits, reducing flow and causing corrosion over time.
Common Signs of Hard Water in Your Denver Home
- White, chalky residue on faucets and sinks
- Low water pressure from fixtures
- Water spots on dishes or glassware
- Frequent appliance repairs (dishwashers, washing machines)
- Shortened lifespan of your water heater
Preventing Hard Water Damage
1) Install a Water Softener
The most effective way to stop limescale at the source is by installing a water softener. These systems remove calcium and magnesium through a process called ion exchange, preventing buildup in your plumbing system.
2) Regular Plumbing Maintenance
If a softener isn’t in your budget, consider regular pipe flushing and descaling of appliances. Many homeowners use vinegar or commercial descaling agents to clean fixtures and water-using appliances.
3) Schedule a Professional Assessment
If you suspect hard water is damaging your plumbing, it’s a good idea to schedule an expert inspection. At Bell, we can identify where buildup is occurring and recommend solutions ranging from chemical treatments to pipe replacements.
Denver Tip: Hard water is especially common in the Denver metro area due to our mineral-rich groundwater. That means your plumbing is at a higher risk if left unchecked.
FAQs About Hard Water and Plumbing
Talk to Denver’s Hard Water Plumbing Experts
If you’re struggling with clogs, low pressure, or appliance wear from hard water, Bell Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Electrical is here to help. Our team can assess your system, recommend the right solutions, and keep your plumbing flowing freely.