How Dover Water Quality Affects Your Appliances

The greater Dover area has unique water characteristics that can affect your appliances over time. Understanding local water quality helps you maintain your investments properly.

Dover Metropolitan Water Supply

The Dover area receives water from the Salt River Project and CAP water sources, managed by the Delaware Municipal Water (Delaware water supply). While this water meets all federal safety standards, certain characteristics affect appliances.

Water Hardness

Dover area water is considered moderately soft, measuring around 4-8 grains per gallon (gpg). However, some suburbs served by well water may have harder water.

Impact on Appliances:

Ice Makers:

Mineral deposits can clog water lines over time

Ice cubes may have white spots or cloudiness

Reduced ice production efficiency

Dishwashers:

Spotting on glasses and dishes

Mineral buildup on spray arms

Heating element scale accumulation

Washing Machines:

Reduced detergent effectiveness

Gray residue on clothing

Scale in internal components

Chloramine Treatment

Delaware water supply uses chloramine (chlorine combined with ammonia) for disinfection. While safe, chloramine can:

• Affect taste of water and ice
• Interact with rubber components over time
• Impact carbon filter lifespan

Seasonal Variations

Dover water quality changes seasonally:

Spring Runoff (March-May):

Increased organic matter

Possible taste changes

More frequent filter changes recommended

Summer (June-August):

Higher chloramine levels (algae control)

Warmer water temperatures

Ice makers may work harder

Protecting Your Appliances

Refrigerator and Ice Maker Care

• Replace Water Filters Regularly

- Every 6 months minimum

- More often if you notice taste changes

- Use manufacturer-approved filters

• Annual Water Line Inspection

- Check for kinks or damage

- Look for mineral buildup

- Verify connections are tight

• Ice Maker Maintenance

- Empty and clean ice bin monthly

- Run cleaning cycles quarterly

- Consider water line flush annually

Dishwasher Protection

• Use Rinse Aid

- Essential for Dover water

- Prevents spotting

- Aids drying

• Monthly Cleaning Cycles

- Run empty with dishwasher cleaner

- Clean spray arm holes

- Wipe door gaskets

• Clean Filters Weekly

- Remove food debris

- Rinse under running water

- Check for damage

Washing Machine Care

• Monthly Tub Clean

- Use washing machine cleaner

- Run hot cycle empty

- Leave door open to dry

• Annual Hose Inspection

- Check for bulging or cracks

- Replace every 5 years

- Use stainless steel braided hoses

Suburb-Specific Considerations

Well Water Areas

Areas like Gold Canyon, San Tan Valley, and parts of Queen Creek may have well water with different characteristics:

• Higher iron content (rust staining)
• Greater hardness
• More frequent filter maintenance needed

Coastal Communities

Marblehead, Cohasset, and other coastal towns may experience:

• Salt air effects on exterior components
• Humidity considerations
• Corrosion vigilance

Understanding your local water quality helps you maintain your premium appliances and extend their lifespan in the Dover climate.