Wondering whether you live in a hard water area? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. Use the hard water map below to get an idea of the average water hardness in your area. The reading is in parts per million or ppm, which details how many calcium and magnesium ions are in your water per litre. It is these calcium and magnesium ions that are responsible for making water hard.
If you live in an area with an average reading over 100ppm then you’ll likely notice some visible signs of hard water in your home, such as limescale formation on taps, shower heads and in your kettle.
Hard Water Map Of The UK
Please Note In Most Cases The Above Information Can Be Checked With Your Water Provider
Find Out Who Your Local Water Provider Is Here
What Is Hard Water?
Hard water is defined as water with a high mineral content, predominantly of calcium and magnesium salts. Hard water is formed when water percolates through layers of chalk, limestone or gypsum which is why the hardness of water can vary depending on where you live. In the UK an alarming 60% of homes are affected by hard water.
Counties In The UK With The Hardest Water
The majority of homes in the UK are affected by hard water with a reading of 200ppm or more. Here is a brief list of the worst affected counties with hard to very hard water.
- Surrey
- Essex
- Sussex
- Dorset
- Bedfordshire
- Kent
- Hertfordshire
- Buckinghamshire
- Hampshire
- Gloucestershire
- Oxfordshire
- Wiltshire
What Is The Impact Of Hard Water?
The chances are that if you live in one of the worst affected areas, you are no stranger to the impact of hard water. Hard water has a direct impact on daily life, from causing scale build up in expensive heating systems to leaving your skin dry and irritated. But don’t just take our word for it, here are some statistics about the impact of hard water on your home.
How To Combat Hard Water?
If you are concerned about the impact of hard water then you’ll be pleased to know there is a solution. One of the most effective ways to treat hard water is by installing a Water Softener. These are generally installed as the water enters a property, allowing you to feed your entire home and appliances with soft water. Below we’ve listed a few notable benefits of softening your water.
- Cost Reduction – For most applications, excess limescale build-up is caused by mineral deposits from hard water. This scale collects on heating elements, pipework and other appliances like water coolers, reducing their efficiency. Studies show that the average four person household could save up to £200 a year by installing a water softening system. Read more…
- Limescale Prevention – In hard water areas limescale can build up at a worrying rate, of up to 70kg every year. Installation of a water softener not only prevents this, but it can help clear out existing limescale deposits in your pipework or within heating elements. If you are worried about an existing build up, then a softener could still be a great solution. Read more…
- Additional Benefits – Softened water has a number of additional benefits aside from just preventing limescale build up. Think about your cleaning routine, where left-over mineral deposits will no longer appear on glasses, windows or shiny surfaces. Also skin and hair, which are both left feeling softer thanks to the reduced mineral content of softened water. Read more…
How To Test For Hard Water?
If you are concerned about hard water and the impact that it is having on your home, then you might want to consider testing your water. Testing for water hardness gives you a reading specific to your property and allows you to act accordingly. Although the figures on our water hardness map are accurate, it is still important to test your water to get a precise reading.
For customers that are curious about how hard their water is, we are pleased to offer no obligation Free Water Hardness Tests which includes a personalised report. If your water is found to be hard, the report also details which of our Water Softeners would be suitable for you to help you on your journey towards tackling hard water.
Considering A Water Softener To Combat Hard Water?
If you are thinking about installing a Water Softener to combat hard water, you’re in the right place. We have a range of helpful guides that can help you to choose the right water softener. Don’t forget that our friendly team who are happy to discuss your requirements and direct you towards suitable products are only a phone call or email away.