Energy bills are increasing, and despite the sunny season, there is no debating that if you’ve got visible limescale buildup around your sinks, showers and bathrooms, you will also have a problem with your appliances.
This seemingly small limescale problem can lead to inefficiencies and higher energy usage.
Image: Washing machine with limescale buildup
Gordon Wallis, a boiler expert, talked about how the build-up of limescale can increase energy costs and lead to costly and lengthy repairs.
“Boiler health is paramount in ensuring energy efficiency and avoiding costly breakdowns… with 90% of plumbers recognising the serious impact of hard water and limescale on boiler health, regular checks are imperative…”
The Impact of Hard Water
Limescale is mostly made of calcium carbonate and forms when hard water gets heated.
This mineral build-up acts as an insulator, making your appliances work harder and consume more energy to achieve the same results.
Over time, this not only inflates your energy bills but also leads to premature wear and tear on your appliances, leading to costly repairs or replacements.
Some areas especially those with lots of chalk and limestone, are more prone to hard water problems. As water flows through these regions, it gathers extra calcium and magnesium, leading to limescale buildup. In Ireland, this can be a common issue in many homes.
Wallis mentions that one of the best ways to ensure you solve limescale issues quickly is by buying a water softener which will eliminate the effects of hard water and increase energy efficiency.
How to Eliminate Limescale
Here’s what you can do to get rid of limescale problems:
1. Regular Maintenance and Cleaning:
- Kettles and Irons: Descale regularly to maintain efficiency.
- Washing Machines and Dishwashers: Use water softening tablets or solutions.
- Shower heads and Taps: Clean periodically to prevent build-up and ensure smooth water flow.
Neglecting this maintenance can lead to increased energy consumption and potential damage to your plumbing equipment.
However it doesn’t mean that the hard water problems will be eliminated completely.
2. The Ultimate Solution: Water Softeners
While regular cleaning helps, the best way to combat limescale is to tackle the problem at its source.
Installing a water softener can reduce the calcium and magnesium in your water supply, preventing limescale from forming in the first place.
A water softener will eliminate all the negative effects that hard water causes throughout your entire house. It improves energy efficiency, enhances your shower experience, and reduces the time spent on cleaning.
Take Action Today
Don’t let limescale silently sabotage your energy efficiency.
By taking proactive measures to address hard water and limescale build-up, you can significantly reduce your energy bills and avoid unexpected repair costs.
Consider investing in water softening solutions and schedule regular maintenance checks with professionals to keep your household running efficiently.
Check out Renewell Water's water softener and start saving money instead of wasting it because of hard water.
Written 24th of July 2024
Hidden appliance problem is hiking up your energy bills and it may cost hundreds to fix