Hard water contains high levels of dissolved minerals, primarily calcium and magnesium. Signs include: limescale buildup on taps and showerheads, white residue on dishes, difficulty lathering soap, dry skin and dull hair after washing, and scale deposits in kettles. Weston-super-Mare and Somerset are known for hard water.

Benefits include: protection for appliances (boilers, washing machines, dishwashers), reduced limescale buildup, lower energy bills (limescale-free heating elements are more efficient), softer skin and shinier hair, less soap and detergent needed, easier cleaning, and longer-lasting pipes and plumbing.

The amount of sodium added is very small and not noticeable to taste for most people. The softening process exchanges calcium and magnesium for sodium, but the levels are well below any health concern threshold. Many homes keep a separate hard water tap at the kitchen sink for drinking if preferred.

Installation costs vary depending on the system and your plumbing setup. Running costs are minimal - mainly the salt (around £5-£10 per month for an average household) plus a small amount of water and electricity for regeneration. The savings on appliance repairs, energy bills, and cleaning products often offset these costs.

Water softeners are typically installed where the mains water enters your home, often under the kitchen sink or in a utility room. They need access to a power supply and drain for regeneration. We'll survey your property to recommend the best location.

This depends on your water usage and water hardness. Typically, you'll need to top up the salt every 4-8 weeks. Modern units have indicators that tell you when salt is running low. We recommend block salt for convenience, though tablet salt also works well.

Many people with dry skin or eczema report significant improvement after switching to softened water. Hard water can strip natural oils from skin and leave soap residue that causes irritation. Soft water allows soap to rinse away completely and is gentler on sensitive skin.

Water softeners are relatively low maintenance but benefit from periodic servicing to ensure optimal performance. We recommend an annual check to clean components, test operation, and ensure the system is working efficiently. Regular salt top-ups are the main ongoing requirement.

A water softener specifically removes calcium and magnesium (the minerals that cause hardness) through ion exchange. A water filter removes various contaminants like chlorine, sediment, or heavy metals but doesn't address hardness. Some homes benefit from both systems.

Yes, over time soft water will gradually dissolve existing limescale deposits in your pipes and appliances. This is a gradual process that can take several months, but you'll notice improvements in water flow and appliance efficiency as the scale breaks down.