The Calgary area’s water has enough minerals to classify it as hard, which creates plenty of challenges. Hard water damages people and plumbing because it is loaded with dissolved calcium and magnesium particles. Wiehler Plumbing and Heating, a plumbing company in Calgary, deals firsthand with this damage.  These are some of the hard water negative effects in your Calgary plumbing.

Clogged Pipes 

Sewer pipes are also vulnerable to hard water, especially in the bathrooms. When soap scum combines with hair and toothpaste in the drain pipes, it forms a tough clog that’s hard to dislodge or dissolve. Sometimes the clog forms at the sink, but it can be further down the line, creating a backed-up sewer for your entire plumbing system prompting a visit from a plumbing company.

Significant appliances like water heaters, dishwashers and washing machines are at risk because hard water builds inside the pipes, narrowing them. Water heaters are especially vulnerable because sediment forms in the tank that slows water heating, and hastens corrosion.  

Skin Irritation and Problem Hair 

When your skin itches shortly after showering, suspect our local hard water. The excessive mineral load in the water dries out the skin. Unless you use skin lotions to hydrate your skin, it might develop cracks that are painful and lead to infections.  

Since soaps don’t dissolve well in hard water, many people use more shampoo to get a full lather head. It may seem like all that shampoo rinses away, but sometimes a film remains, leaving hair feeling and looking dull.  

Soap Scum 

Since it takes more soap to get the job done when the water is hard, there is always more residue left behind in the sinks, tubs, showers and dishwashers. Soap scum eventually forms on every surface it touches. The film dulls the feelings of anything shiny, and finally, it can build to the point where it’s easily visible. 

Subpar Laundry 

When stains and smudges don’t come out of your laundry, your detergent or washer may not be to blame. Hard water makes it harder for the soap to do its job. Unless you have a generous rinse cycle in the washer, the soap may build up on your clothes and irritate your skin.  

Bottom Line 

The problems associated with hard water in the Calgary area are profound, especially when they clog pipes to the point where they’re backing up or damaging expensive appliances. 

If you’re facing a clog or a sewer backup, call Wiehler Plumbing and Heating, your trusted plumbing company Calgary. We can help you soften the water and avoid clogged pipes and sewer problems.