Rainwater, originally pure, becomes limestone when it crosses soils rich in limestone. As it dissolves these minerals, it becomes charged with calcium ions (Ca²)⁺) and magnésium (Mg²⁺)which determines its hardness. The limescale content of your water, its hardness, will therefore be determined mainly by the geology of your region.

The more of these minerals a water contains, the more it is said to be "hard"the more it tends to leave limescale deposits in pipes and household appliances.

1. How to measure water hardness?

Hardness is expressed in °f (French degree)corresponding to 10 mg calcium carbonate (CaCO₃) per liter water.

• Fresh water 0 to 20 °f
• Hard water 21 to 30 °f
• Very hard water 31 to 40 °f
• Extremely hard water : > 40 °f

You can easily find the hardness for your town or region by visiting your supplier's website. If you can't find it, or want to check for yourself, you can also use the Aquacycle.eu hardness test.

If your water is hard to very harda softener can be an effective solution for reduce limescale in water and protect your plumbing, skin and appliances.

2. The undesirable effects of limescale

• Scale formation When heated, water releases calcium and magnesium, which crystallize as scale deposits in pipes, water heaters, fittings and household appliances.
• Reducing energy efficiency A thin layer of limescale in a water heater or boiler can lead to increase energy consumptionbecause heat exchange is less efficient. Heating is therefore more expensive.
• Effects on skin and hair : Hard water dries skin and hairIt limits the effectiveness of soaps and shampoos.
• Rough laundry problems Limescale makes clothes rougher after washing and reduces the effectiveness of detergents.

3. How to combat limescale?

1. Use a salt water softener It allows you to reduce limescale by replacing calcium and magnesium ions with sodium.
2. Opt for a salt-free eco-friendly softener : Like a CO₂ softenerwhich prevents scale formation without altering the mineral composition of the water.

Conclusion

Limescale is a mineral that occurs naturally in water, but it can also cause problems. domestic problems forming limescale. To avoid its negative effects, the installation of a high-end water softener can be an effective solution for taking advantage of a softer, more pleasant water every day.