Why Are My Faucets Getting Damaged?

One of the most common causes is hard water. Phoenix has some of the hardest water in Arizona, and over time, mineral buildup can seriously damage faucets throughout your home.

Understanding how hard water affects faucets can help you prevent leaks, poor performance, and expensive replacements.

What Is Hard Water?

Hard water contains high levels of dissolved minerals, mainly:

• Calcium

• Magnesium

While these minerals aren’t harmful to drink, they can be very damaging to plumbing fixtures, especially faucets.

Phoenix water naturally contains high mineral content due to the region’s geology and water sources.

How Phoenix Hard Water Damages Faucets

Mineral Buildup Inside Faucets

Hard water leaves behind mineral deposits known as scale. These deposits build up inside faucet components and aerators.

This can lead to:

• Reduced water flow

• Uneven spray patterns

• Clogged faucet aerators

Corrosion and Wear on Internal Parts

Mineral deposits can trap moisture inside faucet valves and cartridges, accelerating wear.

Over time, this causes:

• Leaks at the handle or spout

• Stiff or hard-to-turn handles

• Premature faucet failure

Stains and White Residue

Hard water leaves visible residue on faucet surfaces.

Common signs include:

• White, chalky buildup

• Cloudy spots on chrome or stainless steel

• Discoloration around faucet bases

This buildup is difficult to remove and can permanently damage finishes.

Reduced Faucet Lifespan

Because of constant mineral exposure, faucets in Phoenix homes often wear out faster than expected.

Without protection, homeowners may need:

• Frequent faucet repairs

• Early replacements

• Ongoing maintenance

Signs Hard Water Is Damaging Your Faucets

Watch for these warning signs:

• Low water pressure from faucets

• White buildup around spouts or handles

• Leaks that keep returning

• Noisy or sputtering faucet flow

If these issues appear throughout the house, hard water is likely the cause.

How to Protect Faucets From Hard Water Damage

Regular Faucet Cleaning

Cleaning aerators and faucet heads can help slow mineral buildup and improve water flow.

Faucet Repairs and Replacements

A plumber can replace worn cartridges, seals, and aerators damaged by mineral deposits.

Installing a Water Softener

A water softener removes excess minerals before they reach your plumbing fixtures.

Benefits include:

• Longer-lasting faucets

• Better water pressure

• Reduced maintenance costs

Whole-Home Plumbing Protection

Softened water helps protect:

• Faucets

• Shower fixtures

• Water heaters

• Appliances

Why Hard Water Is a Bigger Issue in Phoenix

Phoenix homes face unique challenges due to:

• Naturally mineral-rich water

• High water usage

• Older plumbing systems

These factors make hard water damage more common and more severe compared to other regions.

When to Call a Professional Plumber

Call a plumber if you notice:

• Repeated faucet leaks

• Sudden pressure drops

• Widespread mineral buildup

• Frequent fixture replacements

Addressing the problem early can prevent long-term plumbing damage.

Phoenix hard water is often the answer. Mineral buildup affects faucet performance, appearance, and lifespan.

Protecting your plumbing with regular maintenance and water treatment solutions can save you money and frustration over time.

Call Vertical Plumbing at (480) 577-8720