Have you ever needed to replace your washing machine or dishwasher years before its time? If so, you might think that manufacturers don’t make them the way they used to. According to home water system filters expert in GA, this might not be the real reason why your water-consuming appliances are breaking down earlier than expected. If you usually experience such problems, maybe it’s time to take a closer look at the quality of water in your home.
How’s Your Water Quality?
What kind of water do you use in your home? Generally, there are two types of water in most homes – hard water and soft water. Hard water contains more minerals (e.g. calcium, magnesium, and iron, along with trace amounts of manganese and aluminum) compared to soft water and may carry some potentially harmful bacteria as well.
While hard water does not pose any serious health threats, it can cause considerable damage to water-using appliances and shorten their life span. According to a 2009 study commissioned by the Water Quality Association (WQA), hard water can shorten the lifespan of washing machines for about four years (from the normal life expectancy of 11 years to 7.7 years) and about three years for dishwashers (from 10 years to 7 years). Additionally, it reduces the life span of water heaters by 50% (i.e. electric water heaters from 13 to 6.5 years and gas water heaters from 11 to 5.5 years).
How Does Hard Water Damage Appliances?
Due to its high mineral content, hard water causes mineral deposits and limescale as it moves through plumbing, resulting in lower water pressure and clogged pipes. Unfortunately, it causes even more damage when used in water-consuming appliances.
- Mineral deposits at the bottom of water heater tanks increase the amount of energy needed to heat water.
- Using hard water in your washing machine reduces its efficiency, increases the risk of damage to the pump and other moving parts, and shortens its life span.
- When used in dishwashers, hard water can permanently etch glassware and stain utensils. It can also hasten the deterioration of the equipment.
How Do You Know You’re Using Hard Water?
There are several signs that can help you determine if you’re using hard water. Here are some of the most obvious ones.
- It has a strange taste and/or odor.
- It causes brown or reddish stains on porcelain surfaces and leaves ugly soap scum.
- It clogs pipes, faucets, and shower heads.
- It leaves a soapy residue on the skin and hair, causing skin irritation and bad hair days.
- It causes sediment build-up in your appliances which leads to reduced efficiency, higher utility bills, and shorter life spans.
Preventing Hard Water Damage is Easier with Home Water System Filters GA
Don’t let hard water ruin your appliances. With over 50 years of experience in the industry, Metro Water Filter of the South will help you find the perfect home water system for your needs. Schedule your free consultation today by calling us at 770-934-7991. You can also contact us through our website. Metro Water Filter of the South will help you install high-quality home water system filters for your GA home.
