The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) estimates that water hardness and other water quality issues cost U.S. households around $800 a year in additional maintenance. Let’s explore how poor water quality causes these issues and what you can do about it.
The Link Between Water Hardness and Corrosion
Hard water has high levels of calcium, magnesium, and other minerals. When hard water is still or heated, it leaves behind lime scale, a hard, chalky substance. That scale can lead to corrosion in metal pipes in several ways. It undermines the protective metal oxide layer, promotes corrosion through an electrical reaction, and can trap bacteria and fungi that lead to corrosion. The best way to combat hard water in a house’s pipes is with a whole-house water softener that removes excess minerals from the water supply.
How Lime Scale Can Damage Even Plastic Pipes
While scale can’t corrode or chemically damage a plastic pipe, such as one made of PVC, it can have a negative impact over time. The scale deposits will accumulate and restrict the flow of water. That restriction will decrease water pressure but increase overall pressure that can eventually damage valves, connections, and possibly the pipes themselves.
Scale and Soap Scum as Contributors to Drainage Issues
Scale hardens over time in drain pipes and sewer lines. This can corrode metal components and shrink the diameter of drainage systems. Scale also promotes the formation and hardening of soap scum. Scum accelerates the shrinkage of the drain diameter and provides additional texture for blockages to form. Homeowners without hard water protection may need to schedule regular preventive drain cleaning and hydro jetting.
Pipe Corrosion Due to an Acidic Water Supply
Highly acidic water is a common problem for residential properties with well systems in the United States. It causes pinholes in copper pipes, corrodes galvanized steel pipes, and can damage water-using appliances and their connections over time. Schedule a professional water quality test to determine if your water’s pH is below 7.0. If it is, you’ll need to consider a filtration system, such as a calcite filter, that makes the water more alkaline.
High Chlorine and Chloramine Levels
The high chlorine and chloramine levels found in public water supplies can accelerate corrosion in metal pipes. It can also lead to brittleness in certain plastic pipes, such as PEX.
Sediment, Sand, and Iron
Sediment, sand, and iron are prevalent issues in well systems. These substances can cause abrasions that accelerate deterioration in all pipe types. They also clog aerators and valves and contribute to water heater component wear.
Avoid being taken by surprise by unexpected pipe deterioration. Schedule an annual plumbing inspection, and perform maintenance as needed to extend the lifespan of your pipes. If you live in Orlando, FL or a surrounding area and need repiping services, make your first call to Frank Gay.
