Final answer:
Installing a water softener is suggested to improve the efficiency and lifespan of a water heater by preventing limescale buildup, which requires less energy for heating and reduces blockages in pipes.
Step-by-step explanation:
To enhance the efficiency and longevity of a water heater, it is recommended that homeowners install a water softener. Water softeners work by removing calcium, magnesium, and other metal cations from hard water. As a result, the treated soft water requires less soap for cleaning and reduces scale build-up in pipes and fittings, which can extend the life of both the plumbing and the water heater. Notably, water heaters operating with hard water may encounter an accumulation of limescale, a residue that impedes heater function by necessitating more energy to heat the water to a specific temperature and potentially blocking pipes. By installing a water softener, the formation of limescale is prevented, leading to more efficient operation of the water heater and reduced maintenance costs over time.