Tag: frozen pipes

Emergency Plumbing in Eagle, Idaho: What to Do First (and How to Prevent the Next One)

May 19, 2026

A calm, fast plan for leaks, backups, frozen pipes, and water heater surprises

Plumbing emergencies rarely start with a dramatic flood. More often it’s a “small” drip, a toilet that won’t stop running, or a drain that suddenly won’t clear—until it becomes water on the floor. If you’re in Eagle or anywhere in the Treasure Valley, having a simple checklist can reduce damage, protect your home, and help your plumber fix the issue faster. Below is a homeowner-friendly action plan, plus prevention tips tailored to local conditions like winter freeze risk and hard-water buildup.

What counts as an emergency plumbing issue?

A true plumbing emergency is any situation that can quickly cause property damage, create a health hazard, or leave your home without safe water or sanitation. In Eagle-area homes, the most common “drop everything” calls tend to fall into these categories:

Active leaks (water heater, supply line, toilet valve, under-sink piping) that won’t stop or are soaking walls/flooring.

Sewer or drain backups (especially multiple fixtures backing up, or anything involving sewage).

No hot water + signs of a failing water heater (leaking tank, popping noises, rusty water).

Frozen or burst pipes during cold snaps (even a “small” burst can dump gallons quickly).

First steps: protect people, then protect the house

When water is moving where it shouldn’t, the goal is to slow or stop it, then limit damage. Here’s the priority order most plumbers recommend:

  1. Shut off water at the nearest valve (fixture stop valve) or your main water shutoff if you can’t isolate it.
  2. Shut off power or gas if water is near electrical outlets, a furnace, or a water heater (safety first—don’t step into standing water to reach an electrical panel).
  3. Contain water with towels, buckets, and a wet/dry vacuum if available.
  4. Document the damage with quick photos for your records/insurance.
  5. Call a 24/7 plumber and share what you’ve already done (it speeds up diagnosis and parts prep).

Quick guide: what to shut off (and when)

Problem What to do immediately What to avoid
Toilet overflowing Turn off the toilet’s stop valve (near the wall). Remove tank lid and lift float if needed. Repeated flushing; forcing a plunger if sewage is coming up.
Water heater leaking Shut off cold water supply to the heater. Shut off power (electric) or set gas control appropriately and call a pro. Ignoring slow seepage; it can escalate fast once the tank fails.
Pipe burst/leak in wall Shut off the main water valve. Open a faucet to relieve pressure. Cutting drywall blindly near wiring; waiting “to see if it stops.”
Multiple drains backing up Stop using water. Keep kids/pets away from contaminated areas. Call for drain/sewer service. Chemical drain cleaners (can worsen clogs and create hazards during repairs).

What to do for the most common emergencies (Eagle & Treasure Valley)

1) Water heater leak or “no hot water” event

If you see water around the water heater, treat it as urgent. A small leak can become a tank failure with significant flooding. After shutting off the cold supply, check whether the water looks like it’s coming from a fitting above (often repairable) or from the tank body itself (often replacement time).

Prevention tip for many Idaho homes: if your plumbing system is “closed” (common where backflow devices or pressure-reducing valves are present), a thermal expansion control device such as an expansion tank may be required to help manage pressure changes when water heats up. Keeping pressure under control helps protect fixtures and the water heater over the long run.

2) Sewer/drain backup

If water is backing up in more than one fixture (for example, a shower and a toilet), or you notice sewage odor/liquid, stop using sinks, toilets, and washing machines right away. Backups can escalate quickly and create a health hazard.

If any contaminated water enters living areas, prioritize safe cleanup practices and ventilation. Use proper protective gear and keep children and pets away from the affected area until it’s cleaned and dried.

3) Frozen pipe risk (and what to do if you suspect freezing)

In winter, pipes can freeze in exterior walls, crawl spaces, garages, and under-sink cabinets on outside walls. Warning signs include a faucet that slows to a trickle, frost on exposed piping, or no water at one fixture while others still work.

If you suspect a frozen pipe, keep the faucet slightly open and warm the area gently (safe heat sources only). If a pipe has already burst, shut off the main water immediately and call for emergency repair.

4) Hidden leaks and water damage clues

Not all emergencies are obvious. Call a plumber sooner (before it becomes a major repair) if you notice:

  • Water stains on ceilings/walls, bubbling paint, or warped flooring
  • Musty odors that persist even after cleaning
  • Unexplained spikes in your water bill
  • A water meter that moves when all fixtures are off

A step-by-step “Emergency Plumbing” checklist (printable mindset)

Step 1: Find your shutoffs now (before an emergency)

Know where your main water shutoff is located and confirm it turns. Also locate individual fixture shutoffs for toilets and sinks. If a valve is stuck or corroded, a plumber can replace it during a non-emergency visit.

Step 2: Keep a small “leak kit” handy

Store a basic kit in a laundry room or under a kitchen sink: a bucket, old towels, a small adjustable wrench, nitrile gloves, a flashlight, and a shop-vac (if you have one). This won’t replace a plumber, but it can reduce damage in the first 10 minutes.

Step 3: Skip “quick fixes” that cause bigger repairs

Chemical drain openers can be hard on certain piping and create a hazard for whoever has to open the line later. For recurring clogs, professional drain cleaning or hot water jetting is often safer and more effective than repeated chemical use.

Step 4: Prevent hard-water wear and tear

Many Treasure Valley homeowners notice mineral scale that reduces efficiency and shortens the life of fixtures and water-using appliances. If you’re seeing white buildup on faucets or frequent water heater maintenance needs, ask about a water softening or treatment approach that matches your home’s water source.

Did you know?

  • A water heater can leak from a connection above the tank (often repairable) or from the tank itself (often replacement time). Catching it early can prevent flooring and drywall damage.
  • If multiple fixtures are backing up at once, it often points to a main line issue rather than a simple sink clog.
  • Home plumbing “pressure problems” aren’t always obvious—excess pressure can show up as frequent dripping faucets, noisy pipes, or premature failure of valves and appliance seals.

A local note for Eagle homeowners

Eagle homes often range from newer construction with modern valves and fixtures to older properties with aging supply lines, remodel additions, or previous DIY repairs. That mix can change how an emergency behaves—and how quickly it spreads.

If you’re planning a kitchen or bathroom update, consider pairing the visible remodel choices (fixtures, finishes) with a behind-the-walls plumbing review. Updating shutoff valves, correcting aging piping, and improving drain performance can prevent the kind of “remodel surprise” that turns into a weekend emergency.

Need emergency plumbing help in Eagle, ID?

Cloverdale Plumbing provides 24/7 emergency plumbing repairs across the Treasure Valley. If you’ve shut off the water (or can’t), and you need help fast, contact our team and we’ll get you connected with a plumber—no call center runaround.

FAQ: Emergency plumbing in Eagle, Idaho

Is a leaking water heater an emergency?

It can be. If the leak is active or pooling, shut off the cold water supply to the heater and call for service. Water heater leaks can escalate quickly and damage flooring, drywall, and nearby electrical components.

What should I do if my toilet won’t stop overflowing?

Turn off the stop valve behind the toilet (near the wall). If the bowl is rising fast, remove the tank lid and lift the float to stop filling. If it’s backing up repeatedly or you suspect a main line issue, stop using water in the home and schedule drain service.

Why did my drain “suddenly” clog when it seemed fine yesterday?

Many clogs build over time (grease, soap scum, hair, mineral scale). The drain can work “well enough” until it hits a tipping point. Professional cleaning can restore flow and help reduce repeat backups.

Should I use chemical drain cleaner during a backup?

It’s usually better to avoid it—especially if the drain is fully blocked or multiple fixtures are affected. Chemicals can create hazards during professional repairs and may not resolve the underlying problem.

What information helps a plumber respond faster?

Tell us what’s happening (leak, no hot water, backup), where it’s located, whether you’ve shut off the main water, and whether you see water near electrical outlets or equipment. Photos can help too.

Glossary (quick definitions)

Main water shutoff: The valve that stops water to the entire home. Turning this off is often the fastest way to prevent major damage.

Fixture stop valve: A local shutoff under a sink or behind a toilet that isolates one fixture without shutting water off to the whole home.

Thermal expansion: When heated water expands and raises pressure in the plumbing system. In closed systems, a control device (often an expansion tank) may be used to manage this pressure increase.

Hot water jetting (hydro jetting): A drain-cleaning method that uses high-pressure (often hot) water to remove grease, scale, and buildup inside pipes.

Emergency Plumbing in Meridian, ID: What to Do First (and When to Call a Pro)

April 9, 2026

Fast, calm steps that limit damage—before the plumber arrives

Plumbing emergencies don’t wait for business hours. A water heater starts leaking, a toilet overflows, or multiple drains back up at once—and suddenly you’re trying to protect floors, walls, and everything stored nearby. This guide is built for Meridian homeowners and small businesses who want clear next steps, practical safety checks, and a better understanding of what counts as a true emergency. When you need 24/7 help in the Treasure Valley, Cloverdale Plumbing has been serving local customers since 1953 with responsive, professional emergency plumbing support.

What counts as an “emergency” plumbing problem?

A plumbing issue becomes an emergency when it’s likely to cause rapid property damage, creates a health or safety risk, or stops essential water use (toilets, sinks, hot water) in a way you can’t safely manage. In Meridian, the most common urgent calls include:

• Active leaks (water heater, supply lines, washing machine valves, burst pipe)
• Sewage backup or water backing up into tubs/showers
• No hot water paired with a leaking or overheating water heater
• Frozen pipe concerns (especially if you can see bulging or frost on the pipe)
• Overflowing toilet that won’t stop after shutting the valve

If the situation involves gas odor near a water heater or any combustion appliance, treat it as a safety emergency first: leave the area and contact your gas utility before scheduling plumbing repairs.

First 10 minutes: a simple damage-control checklist

When water is moving where it shouldn’t, speed matters. These steps help reduce damage and keep you safe.

1) Stop the water (fixture valve first, then the main)

If the leak is under a sink or behind a toilet, turn the local shutoff valve clockwise until it stops. If you can’t identify the source quickly—or multiple fixtures are affected—shut off the home’s main water valve. In many Treasure Valley homes, the main shutoff is near where the water line enters the house (often a garage, utility room, or basement), or at the meter.

2) Shut off power when water is near electrical

If water is pooling near outlets, cords, a furnace, or a water heater electrical connection, keep clear and shut off power at the breaker (only if you can do so safely without stepping into water). If you’re unsure, wait for a professional.

3) Protect floors, walls, and valuables

Use towels, buckets, and a wet/dry vac (if safe). Move items out of the splash zone, especially anything stored on the floor in bathrooms, laundry rooms, and utility closets. If a ceiling is sagging from a leak above, avoid the area and call immediately—wet drywall can fail without warning.

4) Take quick photos for your records

A few photos or a short video can help document where the leak started and what areas were affected—useful for repairs and, if needed, insurance documentation.

Common Meridian emergencies (and what they usually mean)

What you notice Likely cause What to do right now
Water heater leaking or puddle around tank Failed tank, loose connection, pressure/temperature relief discharge, or internal corrosion Shut off water to heater; shut off power (electric breaker) or set gas control to off; call for repair/replace
Toilet overflowing and won’t stop Clog, failed fill valve/flapper, or main line issue if other drains are slow Turn toilet angle stop valve clockwise; if water still rises, stop using drains and call
Multiple drains slow + gurgling + tub/shower backup Main sewer line blockage (grease, roots, scale, or heavy buildup) Stop water use; avoid chemical drain cleaners; schedule professional drain cleaning/hot water jetting
Sudden drop in water pressure + wet area in yard Service line leak or broken irrigation/supply line Shut off main water; call for leak location and repair

When hot water jetting (hydro jetting) is the right call

If you’ve had repeated clogs, foul odors, or slow drains that keep coming back after a basic snaking, the issue may be deeper than a simple blockage. Hot water jetting uses high-pressure hot water to scour buildup like grease, hair, soap scum, sludge, and even certain types of root intrusion—restoring better flow through the full diameter of the pipe.

Signs you may need professional jetting (not a DIY fix):
• Multiple fixtures backing up at the same time
• Recurring clogs every few weeks/months
• Gurgling drains or sewer odors that return quickly
• Water backing up in a tub/shower when a toilet flushes

Cloverdale Plumbing offers hot water jetting and drain cleaning throughout the Treasure Valley, including Meridian.

Step-by-step: what to do for the most stressful emergencies

If your water heater is leaking

1) Turn off the cold water supply to the heater (usually a valve on the line above the unit).
2) Turn off power: for electric, switch off the water heater breaker; for gas, set the gas control to OFF (or follow the unit’s shutoff instructions).
3) If water is spreading, contain it with towels/buckets and protect nearby drywall and flooring.
4) Call a plumber for diagnosis. Some leaks are from fittings and can be repaired; a leaking tank often indicates replacement is near.

If you’re considering an upgrade, Cloverdale Plumbing provides water heater installation and repair support.

If you suspect a main sewer line clog

1) Stop using sinks, toilets, dishwashers, and laundry immediately (more water can trigger a backup).
2) Keep kids and pets away from affected areas—backups can contain bacteria.
3) Avoid chemical drain cleaners; they often don’t resolve main-line issues and can create hazards for whoever opens the line.
4) Call for professional drain cleaning. Depending on conditions, your plumber may recommend snaking, hot water jetting, or inspection to confirm the cause.

If a pipe bursts or a supply line fails

1) Shut off the main water right away.
2) Open a faucet on the lowest level to help relieve pressure and drain remaining water from lines.
3) If the leak is near electrical, cut power at the breaker (only if safe).
4) Call for emergency plumbing repair and consider water extraction if floors/carpet are saturated.

For repairs or repiping support, see pipe replacements & repairs.

Did you know? Quick facts that help prevent emergencies

• If more than one drain is acting up at the same time, the problem is often beyond a single fixture.
• Slow drains that come back quickly can point to buildup in the pipe—not just a one-time clog.
• Many Meridian-area water reports show water hardness in the moderately hard range (often around 4–6 grains per gallon), which can contribute to mineral scale in plumbing over time.
• A simple habit: know where your main shutoff valve is and make sure it can turn—this saves valuable minutes in a leak.

A local Meridian angle: why prevention matters here

Meridian homes range from older neighborhoods with aging supply lines to fast-growing areas with newer construction. In both cases, the biggest “surprise” emergencies tend to come from the same sources: hidden wear on valves and supply lines, mineral buildup that narrows pipes, and clogs that form gradually until one busy day pushes things over the edge.

If you’re planning upgrades, a proactive approach can reduce future emergency calls:

• Schedule periodic drain maintenance if you’ve had repeat clogs (especially kitchen lines).
• Consider water treatment if you notice scale on fixtures or poor soap performance—see water softening systems.
• If you’re remodeling a kitchen or bath, plan plumbing access and fixture placement early—Cloverdale Plumbing supports plumbing remodels and new installs.
• Update old shutoff valves and supply lines before they fail; it’s a small project compared to water damage cleanup.

Need an emergency plumber in Meridian?

If you’ve shut off the water and the situation still feels urgent—or you’re facing a leak, backup, or water heater issue—get a professional on the way. Cloverdale Plumbing provides 24/7 emergency plumbing help across the Treasure Valley with a local team and clear communication.

FAQ: Emergency plumbing in Meridian, Idaho

Is a clogged drain an emergency?

A single slow sink may not be. It becomes urgent when multiple drains are affected, you see backup in tubs/showers, or there are signs of sewage. Those can indicate a main line blockage that can worsen quickly.

Should I use chemical drain cleaner before calling?

It’s usually best to skip it—especially if you suspect a main line problem. Chemical cleaners may not resolve the root issue and can create safety hazards when a plumber opens the line.

What’s the first thing I should do if my water heater is leaking?

Shut off the water supply to the heater, then shut off power (breaker for electric; gas control to OFF for gas). After that, contain water and call for service—some leaks are repairable, while a leaking tank often means replacement.

Why do my drains keep clogging even after they’re snaked?

Recurrent clogs often indicate buildup along the pipe walls (grease/soap/scale) or a downstream restriction. Hot water jetting can be a strong option when the goal is to thoroughly scour the line.

Do you handle emergency plumbing for businesses in Meridian?

Yes—plumbing emergencies can shut down restrooms, kitchens, and customer areas. Cloverdale Plumbing supports both residential and commercial customers across the Treasure Valley.

Glossary (plain-English plumbing terms)

Main water shutoff: The valve that stops water to the entire home or building.
Angle stop (fixture shutoff): The small valve under a sink or behind a toilet that shuts off water to that fixture only.
Main sewer line: The primary drain line that carries wastewater from your home to the city sewer (or septic system).
Hot water jetting / hydro jetting: A professional drain-cleaning method that uses high-pressure (often hot) water to clean buildup from the inside of pipes.
T&P valve (temperature & pressure relief): A safety valve on a water heater that releases water if temperature or pressure becomes unsafe.
Hard water: Water with higher mineral content (like calcium and magnesium) that can cause scale buildup on fixtures and inside plumbing.

Emergency Plumbing in Boise, ID: What to Do First (and How to Prevent the Next One)

March 30, 2026

A calm, practical playbook for plumbing emergencies—built for Treasure Valley homes

Plumbing emergencies rarely happen at a convenient time. A water heater starts leaking during bedtime routines, a toilet backs up when guests are over, or a pipe freezes after a Boise cold snap. The good news: the first 10 minutes matter most, and a few smart habits can prevent many repeat emergencies.

Cloverdale Plumbing has served Boise and the Treasure Valley since 1953, and this guide reflects the real-world steps we recommend when “something’s wrong” and you need a plan—fast.

What counts as an emergency plumbing issue?

In Boise homes, an “emergency” is any plumbing problem that can quickly cause water damage, sewage exposure, loss of essential water service, or a safety hazard. Common examples include:

• Active leaks you can’t control (burst pipe, failed supply line, leaking water heater)
• Overflowing toilet or sewage backing up (especially if more than one drain is affected)
• No hot water from a leaking or failing water heater
• Frozen pipes (or signs they’re frozen)
• Gas smell near a gas water heater or appliance (leave the home and call the gas utility/emergency services)

If you’re unsure, treat it like an emergency until you can safely confirm it’s contained.

First 10 minutes: a step-by-step emergency checklist

1) Stop the water (or isolate it)

If water is actively leaking, your first goal is to stop flow. Use the closest shutoff you can find:

• Fixture shutoff valves (toilet, sink): usually behind/under the fixture.
• Water heater cold-water shutoff: often above the unit.
• Main water shutoff: commonly near where the service line enters the home (sometimes a basement/crawlspace/mechanical room).

2) Protect people and property

If water is near outlets, appliances, or a breaker panel, avoid standing water and switch off power to the affected area if you can do so safely. Move towels, buckets, and use a wet/dry vacuum if available to limit damage.

3) If it’s a drain/sewer backup, stop using water

For a toilet overflow or drain backup, turn off water to the toilet (the valve behind it) and avoid running sinks, showers, laundry, or dishwashers until the line is cleared—especially if multiple fixtures are affected.

4) Document the issue (quickly)

Take a few photos/video of the leak location, water heater label (brand/model), and any visible damage. This helps your plumber diagnose faster and supports insurance documentation if needed.

5) Call a plumber with a true 24/7 response

When the problem is contained but not solved, it’s time to get help. If you need an on-call plumber (not a call center), Cloverdale Plumbing offers 24/7 emergency plumbing repairs in Boise and across the Treasure Valley.

Common Boise emergencies (and what to do while you wait)

Emergency
What to do right now
What not to do
Water heater leaking
Shut off cold water to the heater; if safe, turn off power (electric) or set gas control to “off.” Contain water with towels/pan/bucket.

Don’t ignore a dripping tank—small leaks often turn into major water damage fast.
Toilet overflow / backup
Turn off the toilet shutoff valve. If water is rising, lift the tank lid and raise the float or close the flapper. Stop using other drains if multiple fixtures are slow/backing up.
Avoid chemical drain cleaners—especially during a backup (they can splash and create hazards).
Main line clog
Stop using water throughout the home to prevent sewage overflow. If you have a cleanout, keep the area accessible for your plumber.

Related service: Hot Water Jetting or Drain Cleaning
Don’t keep “testing” the drains—each flush can add gallons to the problem.
Suspected frozen pipe
Keep a faucet slightly open; apply gentle heat (hair dryer/heating pad) to the suspected area; know where the main shutoff is. Watch for signs like no flow, frost on pipes, or unusual sounds. (homesandgardens.com)
Never use an open flame/torch—high risk of fire and pipe damage.

Prevention: the “no-surprises” plumbing routine for busy Boise homeowners

Most emergencies start as small warning signs. A short routine—done seasonally—can reduce the odds of a middle-of-the-night call.

Monthly (10 minutes)

• Look under sinks for slow drips, swelling cabinets, or musty odor.
• Check toilet bases for wobble or moisture.
• Listen for “running toilet” sounds and fix promptly (wasted water adds up fast).

Seasonal (especially before winter)

• Keep your thermostat set no lower than about 55°F when you’re away during freezing weather; open vanity cabinet doors on exterior-wall plumbing to let warm air circulate. (westernhvac.com)
• Insulate exposed pipes in crawlspaces/garages; seal air leaks where pipes enter walls. (evolverealestateidaho.com)
• Disconnect and drain outdoor hoses; shut off and protect exterior hose bibs. (westernhvac.com)
• During extreme cold, a slow drip from an indoor faucet can help protect vulnerable lines, but outdoor dripping can be counterproductive—focus on insulation and shutoffs outdoors. (bhg.com)

Drain & sewer maintenance (when problems keep returning)

If you’re dealing with recurring clogs, slow drains in multiple fixtures, or periodic backups, professional drain cleaning can remove buildup that store-bought solutions can’t touch—especially grease, scale, and root intrusion. For tough buildup, hot water jetting is a strong option because it cleans the inner pipe wall rather than just punching a small hole through the clog.

Did you know? Quick facts Boise homeowners often miss

Boise water is commonly considered moderately hard (often cited around 108 ppm / ~6 grains per gallon). That level can contribute to scale over time in water heaters and fixtures, even if everything “seems fine.” (aquatell.com)
Frozen pipes don’t always look frozen. Reduced flow, odd noises, frost on a visible line, or sewage odors can all be warning signs—catching it early can prevent a burst. (homesandgardens.com)
Outdoor faucet dripping isn’t always the best move. In hard freezes, dripping can create icicles that block flow; insulating and using interior shutoffs (when available) is often safer for exterior lines. (southernliving.com)

Local angle: Boise + Treasure Valley plumbing realities

Boise homes often deal with a mix of winter freeze risk and mineral buildup that slowly narrows pipes and reduces appliance efficiency. If your home has plumbing in a garage, crawlspace, or exterior wall, it’s more vulnerable during cold nights—especially when the home is unoccupied.

If you’re planning a kitchen or bathroom update, it’s also worth having plumbing evaluated before walls and floors close up. Smart rerouting, updated shutoffs, and fixture upgrades can prevent future “surprise leaks.”

Need an emergency plumber in Boise right now?

If you’ve shut off the water (or can’t) and you need help fast, Cloverdale Plumbing is ready with 24/7 emergency response across Boise and the Treasure Valley.

FAQ: Emergency plumbing in Boise, Idaho

Should I shut off the main water for a leak?

If the leak is active and you can’t stop it at a fixture shutoff (like under a sink or behind a toilet), shutting off the main is the safest way to prevent major damage. Once it’s off, open a faucet to relieve pressure and call for service.

Is a leaking water heater an emergency?

It can be. Even a slow leak can turn into a flooded utility room quickly. Shut off the cold supply to the heater, contain water, and schedule service right away—especially if the unit is older or showing rust at the bottom edge.

How do I know if it’s a main sewer line clog?

Red flags include multiple slow drains at once, a toilet that bubbles when another fixture drains, or sewage odors/backups. When this happens, stop using water and schedule professional drain cleaning—jetting can be especially effective for heavy buildup.

Should I drip faucets in freezing weather?

For indoor plumbing at risk (exterior-wall lines, garage lines, unheated spaces), a slow drip can reduce freezing risk during extreme cold. (bhg.com) For outdoor faucets, dripping can create ice that blocks flow; prioritizing shutoffs and insulation is typically safer. (southernliving.com)

What’s better: snaking a drain or hot water jetting?

Snaking is great for breaking through localized blockages. Hot water jetting is often better for thoroughly cleaning grease, scale, and buildup along the pipe walls—especially for recurring problems or heavier commercial-style use.

Glossary (quick definitions)

Cleanout: A capped access point (often a PVC cap) that allows a plumber to service and clear a drain or sewer line.
Hot water jetting (hydro jetting): A professional method that uses high-pressure (often heated) water to scour buildup from inside pipes.
Main shutoff valve: The primary valve that stops water to the entire home—critical during major leaks.
Supply line: A pressurized water line feeding a fixture (like a toilet or faucet). Failures can cause rapid flooding.
Water hardness: A measure of dissolved minerals (mainly calcium and magnesium). Harder water can leave scale on fixtures and inside water heaters over time. (aquatell.com)