How Orange County Hard Water Affects Your Appliances

# How Orange County Hard Water Affects Your Appliances

If you live in Orange County, you've probably noticed white buildup on your faucets or spotted glasses coming out of the dishwasher. That's the result of hard water - and it's affecting your appliances more than you might realize.

What is Hard Water?

Hard water contains high concentrations of dissolved minerals, primarily calcium and magnesium. Orange County's water hardness varies by neighborhood - inland areas like Anaheim, Fullerton, and Orange tend to have harder water, while coastal communities often have softer water.

How Hard Water Damages Appliances

Dishwashers - Mineral buildup clogs spray arms - Scale reduces heating element efficiency - Leaves spots and film on dishes - Shortens the lifespan by 30-50%

Washing Machines - Scale buildup in pumps and valves - Clothes don't rinse clean - Requires more detergent - Damages rubber seals over time

Water Heaters - Scale accumulates on heating elements - Reduces efficiency by up to 40% - Increases energy bills - Can cause premature failure

Refrigerator Ice Makers - Clogs water lines - Produces cloudy or small ice - Affects ice taste - Requires frequent filter changes

Protecting Your Appliances

Use Water Softeners or Filters A whole-house water softener is the best solution. At minimum, use appliance-specific filters and change them regularly.

Clean Appliances More Frequently Run dishwasher and washing machine cleaning cycles monthly. Descale coffee makers and kettles regularly.

Use the Right Products Use detergents formulated for hard water. Add rinse aid to your dishwasher. Use water softening additives in your washing machine.

Schedule Regular Maintenance Professional cleaning and inspection can catch scale buildup before it causes expensive damage.

**Need appliance service in Orange County?** OC Appliance Repair understands local water conditions and how they affect your appliances. Call (949) 979-4880 for expert diagnosis and repair!