So, what is limescale? And why it is a problem?
We see many people asking us these questions when they enquire about our products. So in this article, we’re giving a brief idea about what limescale is and why you should take it seriously.

Limescale : What is limescale?

When water falls to the Earth as rain, it is what we call soft water. Soft water means that it is pure water, uncontaminated by any other trace minerals or debris. In an ideal world, all of our water needs would be met by soft water, from the water we drink, to the water we use to clean and the water we use in our heating systems. Unfortunately, there’s no way for us to go straight from rain water to tap water and meet the demands as well as ensure that the water is clean. So most of the water that we get through our taps and through the central water system is what’s called groundwater. Groundwater is water that is collected after it falls to the ground. Unfortunately, groundwater is not soft water. By the time it has fallen to the ground, it will absorb certain trace minerals and other chemicals.

Now these chemicals are not often dangerous in that they pose any meaningful threat to our health in the short term, but they are less than ideal for a number of reasons. At the forefront of these reasons is the build-up of limescale.  Limescale is the accumulation of debris, most commonly calcium carbonate, which is leftover material from when hard water passes through your systems. In simple words, limescale is the white build-up you see on the heating elements of appliances or materials which are in constant contact of hard water. Let it be your kettle, pipes, bathroom or glasses; it can be anywhere.

Limescale: Why is it a problem?

Once again, limescale is not really a health risk per se, so there are no serious health issues related to it. However, the build-up of limescale over time means that everything that accumulates it will be less effective. Simply put, this means that your hot water tank/boiler won’t work as well in terms of your heating system and can take up to 30% longer to heat depending on the volume of limescale in your water. All your taps will eventually lose water pressure, because the limescale will have built up to an extent where the water simply can’t get through as quickly. It might mean that your kettle takes longer to boil, because the electric heater inside it is caked with calcium carbonate. Shower heads become clogged and shower time becomes a frustration rather than a joy. Or it might mean that your washing machine simply doesn’t clean your clothes as effectively as it should do.
If your home has similar problems to those mentioned above you should consider addressing them as not only will you save money but also the hassle of having to replace these appliances over the years. Limescale can increase your hot water heating bills by up to 30%. If your water pressure is not at optimum, eventually your pipes will block.Water softening and filtration systems from EWT can help you get rid of limescale problem once and for all. Simply contact us on https://www.ewtechnologies.ie to get started by asking about our Gold Series Package Offer and make your home limescale free once and for all!