Hey there! I’m John from Plumb It Right, and I’ve been plumbing around Perth for almost four decades now. Over the years, I’ve come to know a thing or two about the impact our water quality has on home plumbing systems. Perth’s water is a unique blend of groundwater and desalinated water, and while it’s safe to drink, the mineral content and other elements can affect your plumbing. In this guide, I’ll walk you through what to know about Perth’s water quality, how it impacts your plumbing, and some steps you can take to keep your system in great shape.
- Understanding Perth’s Water Source and Quality
Here in Perth, our water supply mainly comes from groundwater sources and desalination plants. Groundwater tends to be mineral-rich, containing higher levels of calcium and magnesium, which makes it “hard water.” Even though desalinated water is purer, it’s usually blended with groundwater, so most Perth homes are dealing with some level of minerals in the water.
Why this matters: Hard water can cause mineral buildup in your pipes, taps, and appliances, leading to problems like reduced water pressure and clogged pipes. It can also wear down appliances like dishwashers and washing machines faster than you’d expect.
- How Hard Water Affects Your Plumbing
The minerals in hard water accumulate over time, especially in areas with constant water flow. This buildup can narrow your pipes, restrict flow, and create extra pressure on your plumbing system. Hot water systems are particularly vulnerable because heat speeds up the mineral buildup. I’ve seen heaters in Perth clogged with calcium deposits, and this can really impact efficiency and even shorten the lifespan of the unit.
What you can do: Routine maintenance is key here. I recommend flushing your water heater annually and having a professional inspect and clean mineral buildup in pipes to extend the life of your plumbing system.
