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Many people don’t realize how much of a problem water hardness in Roseville, MN can be. But it can do a number on many of your home’s appliances, including your washing machine. Aquarius Water Conditioning can solve that problem by installing a Kinetico water softener in your home. The following is a look at the effects hard water can have on your clothes washer.
Soap Scum and Residue Buildup
One of the most noticeable effects of hard water on washing machines is the buildup of soap scum and mineral deposits. When hard water interacts with laundry detergent, it creates insoluble compounds that adhere to clothing and the interior of the machine. Over time, this buildup can affect the cleanliness of your clothes, leaving them with a dull or dingy appearance.
Reduced Cleaning Efficiency
Hard water can hinder the cleaning efficiency of your washing machine. The minerals in hard water can neutralize the cleaning power of detergents, making it more challenging to remove stains and dirt from your clothes. As a result, you may find that your laundry doesn’t come out as clean as it should.
Increased Detergent Usage
To compensate for the reduced effectiveness of detergent in hard water, many users end up using more detergent than recommended. This not only increases the cost of laundry but can also lead to detergent residue buildup inside the washing machine.
Fabric Wear and Tear
The presence of mineral deposits in hard water can be abrasive to clothing fibers. Over time, this abrasion can lead to fabric wear and tear, causing clothes to look worn out and reducing their lifespan.
Scale Accumulation in the Machine
Hard water can cause scale buildup inside the washing machine’s drum, hoses, and valves. Scale deposits can clog the machine’s components, including the water inlet valve, leading to reduced water flow and potentially causing malfunctions.
Appliance Lifespan Reduction
One of the most concerning effects of hard water on washing machines is its potential to reduce the appliance’s lifespan. The accumulation of scale and mineral deposits can contribute to corrosion and premature wear and tear of the machine’s components, resulting in costly repairs or the need for a replacement.
Higher Energy Consumption
When a washing machine operates with hard water, it requires more energy to heat the water to the desired temperature. Scale buildup on heating elements reduces their efficiency, leading to increased energy consumption and higher utility bills.
Reduced Water Flow and Water Pressure
The buildup of scale in the washing machine’s water inlet valve and hoses can restrict water flow and reduce water pressure during the washing cycle. This can lead to uneven water distribution, potentially affecting the quality of the wash.
Clogged Filters and Screens
Washing machines have filters and screens that prevent debris from entering the machine’s components. Hard water can cause these filters and screens to become clogged with mineral deposits, necessitating cleaning or replacement.
Understanding the effects of hard water and taking proactive steps to address this issue, such as installing a Kinetico water softener, can help maintain the performance and longevity of your appliance while ensuring your laundry comes out clean and fresh.
Learn more about how Aquarius Water Conditioning can get rid of water hardness in Roseville, MN. You can call our Little Canada office at 877-364-3757 or use our online contact form to get in touch.
