- What is hard water?

Rainwater is naturally soft. However when it lands on limestone and chalk it collects these minerals and becomes 'hard'.

- Is the water supplied to my home hard?

Whether your supply of mains water is hard or soft depends on the area you live. Hard water is supplied to 60% of homes in the Uk. Particularly hard water areas are Central, Eastern and Southern England.

- Effects of hard water in the home

limescale cloggs pipework causing premature failure of water heaters, dishwashers and washing machines.

Unsightly white marks, stains and scale on sinks, baths, toilet bowls, taps and blocked shower heads.

Clothes can feel rough and look grey, dishes and glasses are left dull or smeared.

Hair and skin is left dull and possibly itchy. Dry skin conditions including eczema* can be aggravated.

* For further info about benefits of soft water to eczema please visit http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/england/1894381.stm

 All information has been provided by British Water. For further info visit www.britishwater.co.uk