Why Folsom Lake’s Soft Water is Actually Great News for Your Water Heater
If you’re a homeowner in Folsom, California, you might be surprised to learn that Folsom has soft water at 28.0 ppm, which is actually excellent news for your water heater’s longevity and performance. While many areas across California struggle with hard water problems that wreak havoc on appliances, Folsom gets 100 percent of its drinking water from Folsom Lake, which come from the Sierra Nevada mountains and is considered a surface water source.
Understanding Water Hardness and Its Impact on Water Heaters
Hard water is water that has high mineral content which is mostly made of calcium and magnesium. When hard water enters your water heater, these minerals create significant problems. Water evaporates when it gets hot and the water molecules move faster and faster until they turn into a gas. The gas escapes out of the water heater, but the minerals remain inside of the water heater.
This mineral buildup leads to serious consequences for water heater performance. As the water is heated, water minerals separate from the water molecule and settle at the bottom of the water heater tank. Over time, the sediment collects in the tank and creates a layer of insulation between the water and the tank’s heating element. Because of this, less heat reaches the water, resulting in colder showers and your tap water not being as hot as it should be. The more the sediment builds up, the harder it is for the tank’s heating element to work.
The Devastating Effects of Hard Water on Water Heater Lifespan
Hard water ruins water heaters. The sediment buildup left behind in the water heater can negatively affect the components inside of the unit. Sediment buildup also voids most water heater warranties. The impact on lifespan is dramatic: A well-maintained water heater can last 10 to 15 years, but excess sediment and hard water can cut that lifespan down significantly.
In areas with hard water, homeowners face multiple challenges. If you have hard water, it may take as little as a year for sediment to build up to significant levels. The problems compound quickly: As the sediment builds up, it prevents the heating element from reaching into the water. This will result in lower water temperatures that will diminish the performance of washing machines and dishwashers and leave you with colder showers and baths.
Why Folsom Residents Have a Water Quality Advantage
Fortunately for Folsom residents, the city’s water supply provides a significant advantage. San Juan Water District’s water is considered ultra soft. Due to San Juan’s very low level of calcium, magnesium and manganese, you have no need for water softeners. This soft water characteristic means Folsom homeowners experience far fewer sediment-related water heater problems compared to neighboring areas with harder water.
However, it’s important to note that even with soft water, regular maintenance remains crucial. As Folsom Lake’s water level drops and temperatures rise, your water may sometimes taste different and may be warmer than usual. These seasonal variations can still affect water heater performance, making professional maintenance and inspection valuable.
Professional Water Heater Services in Folsom
When you need reliable water heater repair folsom services, it’s essential to work with experienced professionals who understand local water conditions. Murray Plumbing is committed to excellence in every aspect of their business. They uphold a standard of integrity bound by fairness, honesty and personal responsibility. Their distinction is the quality of service they bring to customers.
Based in Placerville and serving the greater El Dorado County area including Folsom, Murray Plumbing proudly offers free estimates and fair pricing, putting quality first every step of the way. Their licensed professionals provide comprehensive services including water heater installation and repair throughout Sacramento, Folsom, El Dorado Hills, and surrounding communities.
Preventive Maintenance for Optimal Performance
Even with Folsom’s soft water advantage, regular maintenance helps ensure optimal water heater performance. Murray Plumbing provides expert water heater repairs to address issues from faulty thermostats to sediment buildup, ensuring you enjoy reliable hot water whenever you need it.
The company’s commitment to quality service is evident in their approach. As a small, locally-owned business with low overhead, they can keep their plumbing prices down while being family-owned and offering free plumbing estimates. Their expertise extends beyond basic repairs to comprehensive system analysis and preventive care.
Protecting Your Investment
While Folsom’s soft water provides natural protection against many hard water problems, professional maintenance and timely repairs remain essential for maximizing your water heater’s lifespan and efficiency. Murray Plumbing knows that plumbing problems often require urgent attention, with their team ready to respond promptly to repair needs, minimizing inconvenience and preventing further damage.
For Folsom homeowners, the combination of naturally soft water from Folsom Lake and professional maintenance services creates the ideal environment for long-lasting, efficient water heater performance. Understanding your local water quality advantages and partnering with experienced professionals ensures your home’s hot water system operates reliably for years to come.