How Hard Water Affects Your Water Heater Performance

Posted in Hot Water Heater Repairs , on November 13, 2025

Hard water is a statewide issue for many Florida residents. While it may seem as though filtering your water will help the problem, it is not that simple. Water is often heated in your water heater tank before it even gets the opportunity to be filtered. This means that any and all minerals lurking in your water may also make contact with your water heater. Hard water can be problematic and lead to the need for water heater repair in Fort Lauderdale down the line. If you live in an area known for hard water, it is wise to have a reputable plumber in Fort Lauderdale on speed dial for water heater maintenance. Reach out to Broward Plumbing today!

What is Hard Water?

water heater repair Hard water is water that contains high volumes of minerals. Typically, these minerals are calcium and magnesium. While this water does not necessarily pose a threat to your health and safety, the minerals can cause scaling. Scaling is when the minerals harden and build up on the surface of your tank.

What Happens Inside Your Water Heater

Water heaters collect water from your plumbing lines in their tank and continually heat it so that you always have warm water available for cooking, bathing, etc. Every time you use hot water, it comes from your water heater. Over time, as hard water is heated, the minerals can settle to the bottom of your tank. This can result in scale formation or just small chunks floating around at the bottom of your tank.

The Effects of Hard Water on Water Heater Performance

Hard water is definitely not ideal for water heater performance and efficiency, as the minerals can be damaging to your tank.

Reduced Heating Efficiency: Mineral buildup on either the bottom of your tank or the heating element contributes to reducing heating capabilities. This is because the minerals act like an insulation that prevents heat from transferring from the heating element to the water. This results in longer heating times and higher energy consumption.
Decreased Water Pressure and Flow: Hard water can result in scaling inside your pipes. This can inhibit water flow, leading to lower pressure. Over time, when left unaddressed, this issue can get significantly worse.
Shortened Lifespan of the Heater: Mineral deposits in your water heater tank can be damaging as they cause corrosion and scale buildup, which can put unnecessary strain on your heating element.

How To Combat Hard Water?

Homeowners can’t change their water supply, but what they can do is maintain their water heater. Regular draining and maintenance appointments can help reduce mineral buildup and, therefore, the impact of minerals on your water heater. If you aren’t too handy when it comes to your water heater, it is best to call a plumber in Fort Lauderdale.

Don’t Let Hardwater Ruin Your Water Heater

Hard water may be unavoidable in many parts of Florida, but its effects on your water heater don’t have to be. Regular maintenance and timely service can help prevent mineral buildup, improve efficiency, and extend your system’s lifespan. Don’t wait until hard water leaves you with costly repairs. Contact Broward Plumbing today for expert water heater repair in Fort Lauderdale.