Which of the following is an effect of water hardness?

Water hardness is primarily caused by the presence of dissolved minerals, particularly calcium and magnesium ions. One of the significant effects of water hardness is the clogging of pipes. When hard water is heated or evaporates, it can lead to the formation of scale, a deposit of calcium and magnesium carbonate, that accumulates in plumbing systems. This buildup can restrict water flow, reduce the efficiency of water heaters, and even lead to costly repairs.

On the other hand, softening of water typically refers to the process of removing hardness minerals, which does not represent an effect of water hardness itself. The enhanced taste of water is subjective and can vary regardless of hardness. In some cases, hard water may actually be preferred for its mineral content. Lastly, water hardness does not inherently reduce water consumption; in fact, it may lead to higher usage due to inefficiencies in appliances or plumbing systems caused by scaling. Thus, the implications of water hardness, particularly in the context of clogging pipes, clearly highlight one of its main adverse effects.