Is Hard Water Damaging Your Pipes? What Every Las Vegas Resident Should Know. Living in Las Vegas, you’re likely familiar with the challenges posed by hard water. With water hardness levels averaging around 16 grains per gallon, our city’s water is classified as “very hard” . But what does this mean for your home’s plumbing system? At Active Plumbing & Air Conditioning, we’ve been serving the Las Vegas community for over 30 years, and we’ve seen firsthand the impact hard water can have on residential plumbing.
Understanding Hard Water and Its Effects
Hard water contains high concentrations of minerals like calcium and magnesium. While these minerals aren’t harmful to your health, they can wreak havoc on your plumbing system:
Scale Buildup in Pipes
As hard water flows through your pipes, mineral deposits can accumulate, leading to scale buildup. Over time, this buildup narrows the diameter of your pipes, reducing water flow and increasing pressure. This added pressure can eventually cause leaks or even burst pipes .
Corrosion of Plumbing Fixtures
The minerals in hard water can also corrode fixtures and appliances, leading to unsightly stains and reduced functionality. Appliances that use water, such as dishwashers and washing machines, can suffer from scale buildup, decreasing efficiency and shortening their lifespan .
Decreased Appliance Efficiency
Appliances like water heaters are particularly vulnerable. Sediment from hard water can settle at the bottom of the tank, reducing efficiency and increasing energy bills. In severe cases, this can lead to the need for premature replacement .
Signs You Might Have Hard Water Issues
Be on the lookout for these indicators:
• Reduced Water Pressure: Mineral buildup can restrict water flow.
• Frequent Plumbing Repairs: Leaks or pipe replacements may become more common.
• Appliance Malfunctions: Dishwashers, washing machines, and water heaters may require frequent servicing.
• Visible Residue: White, chalky deposits on faucets, showerheads, and other fixtures.
Protecting Your Plumbing from Hard Water Damage
Addressing hard water issues proactively can save you from costly repairs:
Install a Water Softener
A water softener can remove calcium and magnesium ions from your water, preventing scale buildup and extending the life of your plumbing system and appliances .
Regular Plumbing Inspections
Routine inspections can catch early signs of hard water damage. At Active Plumbing & Air Conditioning, our experts thoroughly inspect your home, detect water leaks, and provide reliable repairs. Fixing leaks helps conserve our most valuable desert resource—water.
Consider Pipe Replacement
If your home has older piping materials susceptible to hard water damage, such as polybutylene or copper, replacing them with more resistant materials like PEX tubing can be beneficial .
Why Choose Active Plumbing & Air Conditioning?
As a family-owned business with over three decades of experience in Las Vegas, we pride ourselves on delivering affordable, high-quality work. Our commitment to excellence is reflected in our 4.9-star rating from over 819 Google reviews. Additionally, we’re a certified repair contractor approved by the Las Vegas Valley Water District.
Our services include:
• Water Main Line Repairs: From the meter to your home, ensuring efficient water delivery.
• Leak Detection and Repair: Comprehensive inspections to detect and fix leaks promptly.
• Emergency Shut-Off Valve Installations: Enhancing safety and protection for your property.
• Water Heater Installations: Specializing in both tank-type and tankless systems.
We also offer various promotions to make our services even more accessible. For instance, you can save up to $250 on leak detection and repairs with the Las Vegas Valley Water District Leak Detection Diagnostic Voucher. Explore our current coupons for more details.
Conclusion
Hard water is a prevalent issue in Las Vegas that can significantly impact your home’s plumbing system. By recognizing the signs and taking proactive measures, you can protect your pipes and appliances from damage. At Active Plumbing & Air Conditioning, we’re here to help with all your plumbing needs. Contact us today to schedule a service and ensure your home’s plumbing remains in top condition.