What Can Hard Water Do to Your Plumbing:

Hard water can be problematic because it reacts with cleaning products, creates soap buildup, and can wear down fixtures and appliances more quickly than soft water.

Hard water is not bad for your health, but it can cause problems in plumbing and appliances and is considered a nuisance by many homeowners. Understanding exactly what hard water is and how it affects your plumbing can help you determine what, if anything, needs to be done about it. 

 

Common Problems

Hard water can be problematic because it reacts with cleaning products, creates soap buildup, and can wear down fixtures and appliances more quickly than soft water. The minerals in hard water react with soap to create soap scum, inhibiting suds. This means you need to use more soap with hard water. The buildup of minerals on glasses and dishes, clothing, fixtures, and even skin and hair can take their toll over time. Here are some of the common household problems related to hard water:


  • Scale buildup inside water supply pipes, restricting water flow
  • Film and scale buildup on ceramic tile and fixtures
  • Difficulty rinsing off soap and shampoo completely, leaving skin or hair feeling dry or dull
  • Scale deposits shortening the life of water heaters
  • Spots on glasses and dishes cleaned in dishwater
  • Less effective clothes washing due to lack of suds
  • Increased wear on clothing during washing


What Does It Do to Plumbing?

The buildup on tubs, shower, sinks, and faucets caused by hard water are only part of the problem. The minerals in hard water also start to build up inside pipes, fixtures, and appliances over time. The build-up we don’t see can start to cause all sorts of plumbing problems, such as reduced water flow, clogs, and increased stress on pipes and fixtures. The mineral deposits can also cause appliances to operate less efficiently and wear down faster. For example, a water heater has to heat all of the mineral scale buildup inside the tank, as well as the water. Overall, hard water can result in less efficient plumbing and more repairs over time.


Testing for Hard Water

White scale buildup on plumbing fixtures is often a good indicator of the presence of hard water. If you suspect that you have hard water, there is a low-tech way to test for it by shaking up a small amount of dish soap and water in a closed container. If the solution fails to create lots of suds, you probably have hard water. For much more precise results you can contact your water provider and request a recent water testing report. You can also have a sample of your water tested at a local lab or have a company perform an on-site test (just watch out for conflict of interest; for example, you don't want a test done by a water softener company). Another option is to use a water hardness test strip (sold at home centers and hardware stores) that you hold under running water then match to a color gauge.


Solutions

Water-conditioning products are available and can be used for dealing with mildly hard water. However, the most complete and common solution for treating hard water is a whole-house water softener. Installing a water softener system in cases where the water tests above 3 GPG is often the most effective and efficient solution.


Troubleshooting Navien Tankless Water Heaters

Troubleshooting vs. Repair Appointments in Plumbing: What's the Difference?

By 7067290114 • June 3, 2025
When you’re dealing with a plumbing issue, getting the right kind of service is essential. But many homeowners and property managers aren’t sure whether they need a troubleshooting appointment or a repair appointment . These two types of visits serve very different purposes, and understanding the distinction can help you get your plumbing problem resolved faster and more efficiently. What Is a Plumbing Troubleshooting Appointment? A troubleshooting appointment is all about diagnosis . If you're not sure what's causing a leak, a clog, or strange noises in your pipes, a plumber will come out to assess the situation. This visit involves: Inspecting plumbing fixtures, pipes, and systems Running diagnostic tests (like pressure tests or camera inspections) Identifying the root cause of the problem Recommending the next steps for repair or replacement Common reasons to schedule a troubleshooting appointment: Unexplained water stains or damp spots Low water pressure without a known cause Foul odors or gurgling sounds in drains An appliance or fixture isn’t working properly, and the cause isn’t clear You’ve had repeated plumbing issues that need deeper investigation 🔧 Can issues be fixed during a troubleshooting visit? Sometimes, yes. If the issue is minor and can be safely and efficiently resolved during the same visit (such as a quick adjustment or small clog), the plumber may go ahead and fix it on the spot. However, more complex issues, or those requiring parts or extensive labor, will require a follow-up repair appointment . What Is a Plumbing Repair Appointment? A repair appointment is scheduled when the problem has already been identified, and the goal is to fix it. At this point, the plumber knows what tools and parts are needed and comes prepared to complete the repair. This appointment typically includes: Replacing broken or leaking pipes Repairing or replacing faulty fixtures (faucets, toilets, water heaters, etc.) Clearing known clogs Fixing or sealing known leaks Addressing issues already diagnosed during a troubleshooting visit Common reasons to schedule a repair appointment: You've already had a troubleshooting visit and know what needs to be done A prior plumber or inspection revealed the exact issue You need a specific part or system fixed (e.g., “replace the leaking faucet,” “repair the broken shutoff valve”) Why It’s Important to Schedule the Right Type of Appointment Scheduling a repair appointment when the problem hasn’t been diagnosed can cause delays. The plumber may not have the right parts or tools with them—or worse, the issue might be something completely different than expected. Likewise, booking a troubleshooting appointment when you already have a diagnosis can be redundant and may add unnecessary cost or time. Not Sure Which to Choose? Start with Troubleshooting. If there’s any uncertainty about the source of the problem, a troubleshooting visit is the safest first step. Many plumbing companies (including ours) will credit the troubleshooting fee toward the repair if you choose to move forward with the work. Conditions apply — credit may depend on the nature of the repair, time elapsed between visits, and total cost. Ask us for full details when booking your appointment. Let’s Get Your Plumbing Back on Track Whether you're dealing with leaks, clogs, or mystery plumbing issues, our expert team is ready to help. 📞 Call us at (760) 230-5140 📅 Schedule your appointment online at: https://www.encinitasplumbingpro.com/schedule-appointment Not sure what kind of appointment you need? No problem — our friendly staff will walk you through it.

Tankless Water Heaters vs. Storage Tank Water Heaters

By Consumer affairs. • August 23, 2022
Tankless Water Heaters vs. Storage Tank Water Heaters

Are Water Softeners Illegal in California? And Why.

July 13, 2022
Are Salt Water Softeners Illegal in California?

Water Hammer Noise

April 22, 2022
8 Ways to Stop Water Hammer (Noisy Water Pipes) 

What Is A Sacrificial Anode Rod And Why Is It In My Water Heater?

By Hibu Websites • January 14, 2022
What Is A Sacrificial Anode Rod And Why Is It In My Water Heater? 

What are the differences between a hard water scale prevention device and a backflush carbon filter?

By Hibu Websites • December 9, 2021
What are the differences between a hard water scale prevention device and a backflush carbon filter?

Why a Water Softener

By Don Ludington • December 8, 2021
Advantages of Soft Water for You and Your children…

What Is an Expansion Tank?

By Hibu Websites • April 29, 2021
What Is an Expansion Tank? When water is heated, it expands, increasing the pressure in closed heating systems. Over time, these pressure fluctuations can damage the system's components. An expansion tank is designed to alleviate this pressure and extend the life of your system. Here's how it works. 
Importance Of Water Heater Maintenance

Importance Of Water Heater Maintenance

By Encinitas Plumbing • March 22, 2021
Water heaters are very sturdy systems, built to last for many years while being put under tremendous wear and tear. However, they will not last nearly as long if they are not properly maintained. Preventive maintenance is a good idea for pretty much any system in your home, but it’s especially vital for your water heater.

Why Should You Check Your Water Pressure?

By EncinitasPlumbing • May 3, 2020
When was the last time you checked the water pressure on your home? We make it a point to check it at every job we do. Why? Because any pressure reading over 75 psi is an indicator of a non-existent, or failed pressure regulator, and you want to know about this condition as soon as […] The post Why Should You Check Your Water Pressure? appeared first on Encinitas Plumbing.