Updated on July 23, 2025
Here’s a common question we hear from our customers: “What causes this white buildup I see on my pipes, faucets, drains, and other fixtures?” They usually follow up with: “Is it serious? Can I do anything about it aside from scrubbing it away?” Let’s explore what causes this issue and the best ways to fix it.
Hard Water
That white buildup that often encrusts the surfaces of your fixtures is calcite residue from hard water. You may have heard about hard water before, but you may not fully understand what it means.
What is Hard Water?
Hard water generally refers to any water with a high mineral content. Specifically, it refers to water with large amounts of calcium-containing minerals, such as gypsum. The magnesium mineral dolomite, which also contains calcium, is another common mineral suspended in hard water.
How to Tell if You Have Hard Water
Beyond the visible white calcium buildup, you can often tell you have hard water if your soaps and shampoos refuse to lather properly, leaving behind a sticky soap scum on your shower doors and tubs. You might also notice that your freshly washed clothes feel stiff and your glassware comes out of the dishwasher covered in spots. These are all common indicators that your home’s water has a high mineral content.
What Causes Hard Water?
The visible white hard water buildup on pipes, dishes, and other surfaces is a result of calcification from the minerals in hard water. Aside from looking ugly, this calcite will start to coat the inside of your pipes, restricting water flow and increasing pressure within the plumbing until it erupts into a leak. The calcification will also infiltrate your hot water heater (or boiler, if you use one) and leave limescale deposits along the inside of the tank, which can significantly impair its performance. Hard water will also damage components in your dishwasher and laundry.
Is Hard Water Bad For You?
Usually, these minerals pose no threat to your health: hard water may not taste as good as “soft water,” but it is rarely dangerous. However, it can cause trouble for your plumbing and any appliance hooked to it.
How to Fix Hard Water?
Hard water comes to you through the municipal water system, so the best way to combat it is through a whole-house water treatment system attached to the main line. Water softeners will filter out the excess minerals from hard water and rebalance the water with sodium. Installing a water softener of this size requires the work of professional plumbers.
Protect Your Plumbing with a Professional Solution
Do not ignore the evidence of hard water in your home: it might be causing damage to your plumbing out of your sight. The experienced plumbers at Modern Plumbing Industries, Inc. will test your water and then offer solutions to the problem. We have experience with various types of water treatment systems, and we will determine the best solution to address your hard water issues. Schedule your appointment to have a member of our team contact you about your water problems and provide a time for us to come out and address your hard water issues.