Water Quality Impact

Understanding your home's water quality is crucial for selecting the right water heater. It helps determine the appropriate water treatment and heating solution to ensure optimal performance and longevity.

Researching your state, area code, and neighborhood's water quality via online government resources is essential. For detailed information, access the annual Consumer Confidence Report (CCR) from your water supplier or the EPA website. Additionally, consider conducting a water quality test for your home, including pH levels and contaminants, or enlisting the help of a local plumbing contractor.

What is water hardness?

Hard water is determined by the concentration of dissolved minerals, primarily calcium and magnesium. Higher mineral content leads to harder water and increased scale buildup. To counteract this, water softening systems are often employed, especially in areas with very hard water, to minimize scale accumulation.

How does this impact me?

Hard water affects over 85% of American households, posing a significant risk of scale buildup, particularly for tankless water heaters. Scale accumulation from hard water can impair the efficiency of faucets, water heaters, and other water delivery systems. This buildup can lead to overheating, decreased performance, and even water heater damage, potentially resulting in leaks. 

How can I help protect against scale buildup?

Consider using the Product Preservers® Anti-Scale Filter System for tankless water heaters to combat scale buildup effectively. This system encourages the formation of inactive scale crystals that pass through the water heater without adhering to the heat exchanger. With a filter replacement requirement every two years, maintenance is streamlined for long-term protection against scale accumulation.

For tank water heaters, sacrificial anodes in the water heater can create an aluminum hydroxide gel that decreases the efficiency of the heater in geographical areas with high water hardness.

Consider the TDS (Total Dissolved Solids) rating of your water and your location when deciding on water treatment. Depending on these factors, water filtering and softening may range from a luxury to a necessity. Consult your local plumbing contractor to assess your water quality and determine if treatment is necessary. If you opt for treatment, decide between a whole-home filter, which filters all water, or a drinking water filter, which targets specific faucets for filtration.