How does hard water impact household appliances?

Hard water significantly impacts household appliances primarily due to the presence of high mineral content, particularly calcium and magnesium. When water with high mineral levels is heated or evaporates, it can lead to the formation of limescale. This scale buildup is detrimental because it clogs pipes, reduces water flow, and forms deposits on heating elements, which can hinder the efficient operation of appliances such as water heaters, dishwashers, and washing machines. As a result, these appliances work harder to achieve the desired performance, leading to higher energy consumption and reduced efficiency over time.

Moreover, the maintenance requirements for appliances dealing with hard water increase as homeowners must regularly remove scale buildup to keep them functioning properly. This can lead to costly repairs or shorten the lifespan of the appliances, making it crucial to address hard water problems in a household setting.