Due to limescale buildup, over 60% of Britain lives in hard water areas. This means that it is necessary to regularly descale water softener and filter system.

What Causes Hard Water?

Hard water results from high levels of dissolved minerals in the water supply. The calcium and magnesium ions in the water are separated by heating. They are attracted to the sides or the coffee machine, where they form the limescale.

Hard water can cause problems

Limescale buildup around heating elements in coffee machines and kettles can increase the time taken to heat water. This causes the kettles to take longer to heat, which means that more energy is required to heat the same amount of water. The buildup of limescale around heating elements can also be costly. Additionally, the taste of hot beverages such as tea and coffee can be affected by levels of dissolved mineral in the water supply.

The Solution

There are many options available. Here are some:

Chemical Descalers come in many forms. The descalers can be used in kettles at home with Lactic Acid. Commercial uses will require Phosphoric Acid. Nitric Acid is injected directly into irrigation systems for agricultural and horticultural users of hard water.

Water softeners – are Ion Exchange resin devices that contain an organic resin with sodium ions. As water passes through the water softener, these are released to exchange calcium and magnesium ions in hard water areas. After all sodium ions have been exchanged the resin is automatically recharged with a salt solution. This water can be used only for washing, not drinking, or cooking.

Electronic water conditioners can be either wrapped around permanent magnets to emit a magnetic field, or wrapped around a cold water feed pipe with a coil. This coil is attached to an electronic box that emits a variety of frequencies. These systems allow the metal ions to remain suspended and not form deposits inside pipes or appliances.

EM Ceramics – This is a piece of ceramic that has been subject to a special process. The ceramic that results has a strong effect on the water’s metal ions. This prevents them from creating mineral clusters and the consequent scale. The EM Ceramic can also be used to dissolve existing limescale deposits, causing them to slowly dissolve.

Preventing Limescale Formation

Increases the life expectancy of appliances, boilers, and pipework

Reduces energy costs

Reduces amount detergents required

Enhances the taste of tap water.