Water Hardness Question

noname2020x

1. The problem statement, all variables and given/known data

I know what causes water hardness, how it can be resolved (or dissolved - hehe), but I'm not sure why certain parts of pipes would be harder than others. Specifically, why the water on the 1st and 2nd floor of a building would be harder than that on the 3rd and 4th floor. I have to write a ten page paper on these findings, and I'm stumped. Suggestions? Possible causes?

2. Relevant equations

2 HCO3– → CO32– + CO2

3. The attempt at a solution

The only thing I can think of is that is may be warmer in the basement making the Ca2+ ions react with bicarbonate forming buildup.The problem is, the water from the same pipes (I assume) travels to the top floor.

HELP!!!

noname2020x

bump

Pete54

the water pressure would be higher at the bottom of the building

noname2020x

Thanks! I will add that to my paper for sure. Any more suggestions?

noname2020x

Any more ideas?

NascentOxygen

Is this a conclusion you arrived at based on the observed greater buildup of scale on the lower pipes? Is it a "safe" conclusion?

Perhaps more water is required to flow through pipes the closer they are to the level at which water enters the building?