Undissolved ingredients – foreign particles & bacteria
The domestic sections of our water supply network are partly overloaded. As a result of repair work and new connections, sand, sealing and coating materials, etc. penetrate into the domestic water supply system. Pressure fluctuations and vibrations loosen dirt and rust particles which over decades have been deposited inside the domestic water system. As a result, foreign particles enter the household installation system.
Water processed by public water suppliers for households is not germ-free (sterile). It contains some bacteria which, however, are not harmful to health. At sampling points, the germination number is tested regularly, in order to ensure quality.
Dissolved ingredients
They are responsible for stone formation or calcification and corrosion. Calcium and sodium cause limescale damage. Sulphate, chloride, nitrate and hydrogen carbonate cause corrosion in the water pipes.
The more calcium is contained in water, the harder the water and the greater the danger of limescale deposits. These are formed in particular if water is heated, i. e. in boilers, hot water pipes and heating circuits. If limescale is deposited on pipes and heat exchangers, it impedes the heat transfer. Further information is obtained under: > How does limescale get into the water?
The total salt content, the pH-value and natural corrosion inhibitors determine whether water has a corrosive effect. Certain inorganic and organic compounds, which naturally exist in water, e.g. phosphates and silicates, can inhibit corrosion reactions by forming protective layers.