Hard Water and the Little Problems It Can Cause

Hard Water and the Little Problems It Can Cause

As a home inspector in the Austin, Texas area I run across problems caused by hard water all the time.  Around here hard water is normally due to elevated levels of calcium in the water.  Since the Texas Hill Country is an area with heavy concentrations of limestone it is easy to understand why our water is so hard.  

Limestone is, after all, calcium carbonate or CaCO_3.  All that calcium ends up in out water supply where it can wreak havoc on our plumbing pipes and our fixtures. 

The fixtures in the pictures below have heavy calcium deposits on them. 

In severe cases the calcium can completely stop the flow of water.  Hopefully, before that happens the aerator screens on the faucets and the outlets on the other fixtures get a good cleaning.  Another annoying problem that occurs as a result of the calcium is erratic spray patterns.  In many cases more water ends up on you than in the sink and tub. 

Many people in the Austin area have water softeners installed.  These systems can be very effective in reducing the amount of calcium in your water.  But, it is always a good idea to have a professional install your system and verify that it is working properly.  I have seen many water softening systems that are improperly installed and maintained.

So, as a seller it is always a good idea to check each faucet and fixture before your home is inspected.  These little problems can be easily corrected and here's the bonus for you - Properly working faucets and plumbing fixtures won't end up on the buyer's inspection report! 

Thanks for checking in and have a great evening,

Andy Chaudoir - Professional Inspection Services

"Your Home Inspection Connection in Central Texas"

512-632-3232 - www.centexinspections.com