Calgary’s water quality impacts daily life, from the taste of drinking water to the performance of plumbing systems. Knowing the quality and characteristics of your water helps you make informed decisions about your home’s plumbing. Here’s what you need to understand about Calgary’s water quality and how it affects your home, with insights from Icon Plumbing & Heating, your trusted plumbing company in Calgary.
1. Hard Water and Its Impact
Calgary’s water is considered “hard,” meaning it contains high levels of dissolved minerals like calcium and magnesium. Hard water can lead to a range of issues for homeowners, especially regarding plumbing systems and appliances.
Effects of hard water on your home:
- Limescale buildup in pipes and fixtures restricts water flow.
- Decreased efficiency in water heaters and appliances.
- Increased soap and detergent usage due to reduced lathering.
What you can do:
- Install a water softener to reduce mineral content and prevent buildup.
- Regularly descale appliances and clean fixtures to remove limescale.
- Have your plumbing inspected by a Calgary plumbing professional to identify any buildup issues in pipes.
A water softener investment often pays off by extending the lifespan of your appliances and maintaining efficient water flow in your home.
2. Chlorine Levels in Drinking Water
Calgary’s water treatment plants add chlorine to disinfect the water supply and kill harmful bacteria. While chlorine effectively keeps water safe, some homeowners may find that it affects the taste or smell of their tap water.
Chlorine concerns:
- Taste and odor issues, particularly if chlorine levels are high.
- Dry skin and hair for those with sensitive skin.
How to reduce chlorine in your water:
- Use a carbon-based filter on your faucets to remove chlorine before use.
- Consider installing a whole-home filtration system for water used throughout the house.
- Let tap water sit for a few hours before drinking to allow chlorine to evaporate.
Chlorine filtration provides peace of mind for families sensitive to its taste or potential skin irritation. Icon Plumbing & Heating can help you choose the best filtration system based on your household needs.
3. Sediment and Particles in Calgary’s Water
While Calgary’s water undergoes filtration at treatment plants, trace amounts of sediment and particles may still enter the water supply, especially in areas with older pipes. Sediment, though harmless in small amounts, can affect the quality of water and lead to clogs.
Signs of sediment in your water:
- Cloudy or discolored water from the tap.
- Clogged faucet aerators and reduced water flow.
- Sediment buildup in appliances, leading to decreased performance.
Steps to address sediment issues:
- Install a point-of-entry filter to catch sediment before it enters your home.
- Regularly clean faucet aerators and showerheads.
- Schedule an annual plumbing inspection with a plumbing company to check for sediment buildup and clogs.
Sediment filtration improves water clarity and prevents clogging, keeping your appliances running efficiently and your water quality high.
4. Lead Pipes in Older Homes
In some older Calgary homes, lead pipes or fixtures may still be present. Lead in drinking water poses significant health risks, particularly for children and pregnant women. Understanding the status of your home’s plumbing materials is essential for safe water consumption.
Lead exposure risks:
- Health risks for children and vulnerable individuals.
- Taste and odor issues in drinking water.
How to address lead issues:
- Have a plumber inspect your home’s plumbing for any lead components.
- Replace lead pipes and fixtures with safer materials like copper or PVC.
- Install a certified water filter that removes lead.
Replacing lead pipes improves water safety for your family, eliminating exposure risks. If you suspect lead in your plumbing, consult Icon Plumbing & Heating for a comprehensive inspection.
5. Water Conservation and Efficiency Tips
Calgary faces periodic droughts, making water conservation an important consideration for homeowners. Conserving water not only helps the environment but also reduces utility costs and lessens the strain on plumbing systems.
Ways to improve water efficiency:
- Install low-flow faucets, showerheads, and toilets.
- Fix leaks immediately, as even small drips waste water over time.
- Upgrade to energy-efficient appliances that use less water.
How it benefits you:
- Reduced monthly water bills.
- Longer-lasting plumbing fixtures and systems.
- Contribution to Calgary’s conservation efforts.
Water-efficient fixtures are small investments that make a big impact, and Icon Plumbing & Heating can help you select options that match your home’s needs.
Prioritizing Water Quality for Your Home
Understanding Calgary’s water quality helps you make the right choices for your plumbing system. Whether you’re addressing hard water, chlorine, sediment, lead, or water conservation, the right tools and solutions can enhance water safety, efficiency, and quality in your home.
For expert advice and assistance with filtration systems, inspections, or plumbing upgrades, contact Icon Plumbing & Heating. Our team is here to ensure your home’s water quality meets your family’s needs year-round.