Do I Have Hard Water?

We use water on a daily basis, be that for drinking, bathing, cooking, or cleaning. With that being said, many people extend a lack of thought to water’s composition.

A common water quality topic many encounter is hard water. It can have an impact on plumbing and appliances.

The team here at Finerfilters have compiled this useful guide to help you understand hard water, where it comes from, and how it interacts with your home to help you manage water and keep issues related to mineral buildup and efficiency at bay.

What is Hard Water?

Hard water contains higher levels of dissolved minerals, the most common of which are magnesium and calcium. These minerals enter the water naturally as it travels through underground rock formations like limestone, chalk, and gypsum. The higher the concentration of the aforementioned minerals, the harder the water is.

Despite the fact that hard water isn’t a form of contamination, its mineral content can cause visible and hidden effects throughout a home. A well known sign is limescale, a white chalky residue that forms on taps, showerheads, kettles, and inside pipes. In the long run, this buildup can reduce water flow, lower heating efficiency, and shorten the lifespan of essential appliances.

Do I Have Hard Water in My Area?

Water hardness in the UK depends largely on geography. Areas that have chalk and limestone tend to have hard water, whereas regions that have granite and sandstone tend to have soft water. 

The south (e.g., London) and east (e.g., Norfolk) of the UK are hard water areas, while the north (e.g, Leeds) and west (e.g, Cardiff) are softer.

Find out what type of water you have based on your postcode.

Is Hard Water Good or Bad For You?

With regards to health, hard water is generally considered safe to drink. The magnesium and calcium that are present in hard water are essential minerals that support bone health, muscle function, and overall wellbeing. Often, hard water can contribute to daily mineral intake.

However, there can be downsides to hard water, namely, that it leaves skin feeling dry and hair looking dull due to soap and shampoo residue. Additionally, limescale buildup can also impact water heaters, washing machines, and dishwashers, making those appliances work harder and go through more energy, which can lead to higher utility bills and a rise in maintenance costs.

What Can I Do About Hard Water?

The old saying of ‘prevention is better than the cure’ is a good approach to take when it comes to managing hard water. In other words, deal with it before it starts to cause problems. A solution that is commonly chosen is the installation of a water softener that helps reduce the concentration of calcium and magnesium through an ion exchange process.

You could also use a water filter, such as an RO system that filters out calcium and magnesium, alongside a water softener for comprehensive treatment.

Alongside softeners and systems, another effective way is to conduct regular maintenance, including descaling appliances, cleaning fixtures, and using products designed for hard water to minimise its detrimental effects. Finding the right approach depends on your water usage, budget, and water preferences.

Got Any Questions About Hard Water in Your Area?

We hope you have a clearer understanding of what hard water is and whether it is present in your area.

If you have any additional questions, feel free to get in touch with us.