Savings
How limescale buildup affects appliances and boiler energy costs
Water described as “Hard” is high in dissolved minerals, specifically calcium and magnesium. Hard water is not a health risk, but a nuisance because of mineral buildup that shortens the life or leads to the complete failure of such appliances. Pipes can become clogged with scale that reduces water flow and ultimately requires pipe replacement. Limescale has been known to increase energy costs by 25%.
Calculating the projected savings from limescale removal from appliances
The calculation is divided into two parts:
- Extended life expectancy of household appliances
Studies done on appliance life expectancy on Websites such as oldhouseweb.com, find that the standard life expectancy from appliances such as hot water heaters (14 yrs), dishwashers (10 yrs), washing machines (13 yrs) and boilers (30 yrs). After looking at the Limescale buildup in appliances due to hard water in the home, we find in reality they are decreased from 25% - 40% in life expectancy, therefore if we take the out of pocket cost on replacing these appliances before their time, at 25% on average before the end of their life expectancy, we are spending an average of $273 per year on replacement costs not needed. - Average monthly residential utility bill savings
Sources: 2003 Utility Bill Comparisons for Selected U.S. Cities: Electricity, Natural Gas, Water and Wastewater. Compiled by Memphis Light, Gas and Water Division’s Economic Development department. Only firm rates are used in the calculations of the bills
Our study was done by the City of Memphis, in 2003, covering over 14 cities in the United States. By taking the average savings of 25% of utility costs, with the removal of hard water from the home appliances, allowing them to work more smoothly and therefore use less energy, we find the Average Household with an Energy Savings of $983.04 on average per year.
For a projected savings to the average homeowner of over
$1250 per year on average.