How does water quality affect faucets and how to prevent possible problems?
Both the passage of time and the use itself wear the faucet parts. However, water quality is a determining factor for the life of those, since the greater the amount of lime that circulates, the greater the number of problems that may appear. Do you know how to prevent them?
The differences in water quality
Although we always learned that water is colorless, odorless and tasteless, the truth is that we do find differences in its flavor. Bottled water varies from brand to brand, and so does tap water from one city to another. Why this remarkable difference?
The reason is very simple, and it is mainly what is known as water hardness. In some locations, the water quality is much higher and, therefore, the taste is also more pleasant. On the contrary, in other places water can become undrinkable.
This water hardness is marked by the concentration of minerals it has. And it is special of calcium carbonate, which is the dreaded lime. Based on that, it distinguishes between white water, medium water, hard water and very hard water. The harder, the more milligrams per liter.
The problem with water quality goes beyond a mere matter of taste. And although hard waters are not very pleasant, their main drawback is that they can cause obstructions and other breakdowns where they circulate.
Not only the performance of the appliances is affected, but the useful life of these is reduced. Similarly, the pipes through which it flows and the faucet through which we obtain it, also become clogged over time.
How water quality affects us
As we have been saying, the problems that may appear as a result of low water quality are varied. The high concentration of minerals not only affects the ducts, but also ourselves.
Ingesting this type of water can cause stomach ailments in sensitive people. In addition, continuous contact with her, ends up causing dry skin and hair, as well as irritation. In extreme cases, low water quality can also cause dermatitis.
On the other hand, the low water quality causes the lime to accumulate in the pipes. As it increases, the diameter of those gradually decreases. The visible consequence is a reduction in the pressure in the taps. In addition to increasing water consumption, it prevents us from performing activities such as showering easily.
Finally, lime also ends up damaging the faucet. As the water circulates, the particles are deposited in the aerator and ends up also impeding the exit of the water. In its external part, more spots will also appear that will affect the aesthetics of the taps.
Lime prevention
If we live in an area where water quality is low, we should know that not everything is lost. There are different methods to combat lime, although it is also true that if we reach a very advanced point, it is best to contact a professional plumber. However, as a preventive method it can work for a long time.
Ideally to avoid possible problems due to the quality of the water is to use a decontacting agent and water softener regularly. We can use natural remedies such as bicarbonate or vinegar. If we mix a spoonful of that with a glass of white vinegar, two of water and a little bleach we will also have created a powerful mixture that will disintegrate the accumulated lime.
In addition to regular maintenance, it is important to choose faucet parts that are of the highest quality. In this way, we will ensure to some extent that the faucets are prepared to withstand the passage of lime without being immediately affected. Even so, we should clean the lime regularly, since the problem is water quality.
If we opt for parts that have not passed strict controls, we will be saving money at first. However, in the medium term we will begin to notice that we have not made a good investment. The damage that the lime will have caused, will force us to renew the faucet.
