Why Is There White Scale on My Taps and Kettle?

Where does hardness come from?

Water picks up minerals as it moves through rock. The Kingston region sits mostly on limestone, and private wells drawing from it can be especially hard.

How can I tell how hard my water is?

Test strips give a quick answer; a lab test gives a precise one. City residents can also ask their water utility for typical hardness levels.

What does scale do?

It narrows shower heads and aerators, leaves spots on dishes, makes soap less effective and builds up in water heaters, where it insulates the water from the burner or element.

What can I do without a softener?

Soak aerators and shower heads in vinegar, descale the kettle, flush the water heater once a year and wipe fixtures dry.

When is a softener worth it?

If scale is a constant fight, or you have a tankless water heater or expensive fixtures to protect. See water softeners and filters.

How do I check the water heater?

Note its age from the rating label. An older tank full of scale is often due for replacement.

Does hard water affect pipes?

Over many years scale can build up inside pipes, especially hot-water lines and old galvanized steel, and slowly reduce flow. In copper and plastic pipe it's usually less of a problem than in fixtures and appliances. A softener also makes cleaning easier, since soap and detergents work better in soft water.

More plumbing guides

• Does My Older Kingston Home Have Lead or Galvanized Pipes?
• What Plumbing Should a Kingston Landlord Check Between Tenants?
• Why Do My Pipes Freeze When It Isn't That Cold?
• How Do I Find and Test My Main Water Shut-Off?
• Should I Repair or Replace My Water Heater?