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How Hard Water Damages Your Appliances (and What to Do)

Houston's tap water runs hard, and over time that means clogged valves, dulled dishes, and appliances that don't last as long. Here's how to fight back.

By Ainsley Park3 min read read

Written by Sawyer Kincaid, Lead Technician — True Fix Houston. Factory-trained, EPA-certified, 6 years servicing Greater Houston.

Hard water leaves behind mineral scale that slowly damages every appliance it touches. A handful of habits go a long way toward limiting the damage.

What Scale Does

Calcium and magnesium deposits accumulate inside heating elements, valves, and spray arms.

Fix: Descale kettles, dishwashers, and washing machines on a regular schedule with vinegar or a commercial descaler.

Protect the Dishwasher

Hard water is what leaves that cloudy film behind and clogs spray-arm jets over time.

Fix: Run rinse aid consistently and add a water-softening additive to the wash.

Consider a Softener

A whole-home softener protects every water-using appliance at once, rather than treating each one separately.

Fix: If scale keeps causing problems, a softener typically pays for itself through extended appliance life.

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