What causes hard water?

Water that is hard contains calcium and magnesium compounds. Rain water is naturally soft - it does not contain any minerals, but as it seeps through the ground it can pick up minerals, such as calcium and magnesium compounds, from the soil and rocks it passes through. If rain water passes through soft rocks like chalk or limestone, it picks up these minerals. If it passes through hard rocks, such as granite or through peaty soils, it does not pick up these minerals and so remains soft.
 

What are the problems with hard water?

Hard water causes pipes to fur up and scale to collect in kettles and in electric irons and washing machines. If the scale collects on heating elements it shortens their life and makes appliances less efficient. It is also more difficult to work up a lather from soap, washing up liquid and washing powders. It can also cause "tide marks" on basins, sinks, baths and toilets.
 

How can I find out if I have hard water?

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Is there a standard for the hardness of drinking water ?

There is no maximum value for total hardness of water supplies. There are maximum values for two substances, calcium and magnesium, which cause hard water. In England and Wales all water supplies meet the value for calcium and six supplies exceed marginally the value for magnesium, but as there is no risk to health, a relaxation of the magnesium value has been granted by the Inspectorate for these supplies. Where water companies soften water before they put it into supply, there is a minimum value for total hardness which all the softened supplies meet.

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