The Hidden Cost of Hard Water: Protecting Your Pipes & Boiler

Do you live in a hard water area? Hard water means that there is a higher concentration of mineral deposits in the water, specifically calcium and magnesium. These can have a widespread impact on your home and on your personal life.

For example, mineral deposits can build up in kettles, leading to the heating element breaking down faster than it would in a soft water area. Those living in hard water areas might also report more issues when washing their hair, as hard water struggles to create a rich lather from shampoo in the same way soft water would.

Another area that can be damaged by hard water is your plumbing – specifically, your central heating system. One of the biggest issues facing central heating systems and radiators will be in the quality of the water flowing through it. Areas with hard water will find that they need to pay close attention to their pipes and boiler to ensure everything is working as it should.

In this guide, we’re exploring the hidden costs of hard water and how you can help minimise damage related to water mineral deposits.

How does hard water damage your pipes and boiler?

The damage occurs when the water enters your central heating system. This water is recycled over and over again, getting heated and circulated through the system, day after day. Over time, the minerals will separate from the water and this can trigger corrosion of the inner material of your pipes and radiators. This sludge will continue to circulate, where it will pass through your boiler.

Your boiler has a filter in place to prevent damage to the inner mechanisms from sludge and debris, but this can become less effective over time. Neglecting the system by failing to service the boiler and not bleeding the radiators will lead to damage over time.

A central heating system with high levels of sludge and debris build up will lead to cold spots on your radiators where the hot water cannot circulate. The boiler will also have to work harder to achieve the same level of heating power, as heat transfer will be limited by the debris.

How can you prevent this?

If you know you live in a hard water area then you know that you need to take boiler and central heating health very seriously. Simple steps like annual boiler services will help to keep on top of the presence of mineral deposit build up. Your plumber will check the filter and the water quality to determine if action needs to be taken.

Living in a hard water area means that you might need to introduce an inhibitor into your system. This is a chemical treatment that helps to minimise the build up of limescale, corrosion and sludge in the system.

When there is already a high level of sludge build up, you could also consider powerflushing to help bring your central heating back to its former condition. This uses a high powered jet of water to flush out your radiators and pipes. The system can then be topped up with fresh water and inhibitors to give your radiators a new lease of life.

An alternative would be to install a water filter at the point of entry into your home. This will catch the mineral deposits before they make it to your taps. Bear in mind that this method will require space to install the filter and will need to be replaced regularly to keep it working effectively. You can also install filters on individual taps, but this won’t protect your plumbing, just the appliances that use water from the tap.