If water is too alkaline, several issues can arise affecting its taste, your health, and your plumbing. High alkalinity in water can lead to unpleasant tastes and cause scale buildup in pipes and appliances.
Effects of Highly Alkaline Water
Here's a breakdown of the potential problems:
- Taste: The water may taste salty, like soda, or chalky.
- Skin: It can dry out your skin.
- Plumbing Issues: It can cause the formation of chemical scale or precipitate. This buildup can:
- Clog pipes.
- Create scale on filters.
- Affect heat exchange systems, reducing their efficiency.
| Issue | Description |
|---|---|
| Taste | Salty, soda-like, or chalky taste. |
| Skin | Dryness and irritation. |
| Plumbing | Scale buildup, clogging, and reduced efficiency. |
Why is Alkalinity Important?
Alkalinity measures the water's ability to resist changes in pH. While some alkalinity is desirable to buffer against acidic contamination, excessive alkalinity causes the problems listed above.
Practical Solutions
If you suspect your water is too alkaline, consider the following:
- Test your water: Use a home testing kit or hire a professional to determine the pH and alkalinity levels.
- Install a water softening system: These systems can help reduce alkalinity and prevent scale buildup.
- Consult a plumber: A plumber can assess your plumbing system and recommend solutions for scale removal and prevention.
