What is a common consequence of high water hardness in a swimming pool?

High water hardness in a swimming pool refers to the presence of elevated levels of calcium and magnesium ions. This is important because when the hardness is too high, these minerals can precipitate out of the water and form scale. Scaling can accumulate on various surfaces, including pool walls, tiles, and equipment such as pumps, filters, and heaters. This scaling can lead to several issues, such as reducing the efficiency of heating systems and creating unsightly deposits that are difficult to remove.

Proper maintenance of water hardness is essential for the longevity of pool surfaces and equipment. When left unmanaged, high levels of hardness can result in the buildup of scale, thus necessitating more frequent cleaning and maintenance, which can be costly. This is why scaling on surfaces and equipment is considered a primary consequence of high water hardness.