10 signs you may need a water softener

Hard water leaves clues throughout the home. If several of the signs below sound familiar, it is worth measuring your water hardness and considering how a softener could improve comfort and reduce scale-related maintenance.

Ten signs to look out for

1. 1White marks keep returning on taps, shower screens and glasses.
2. 2Your skin feels tight or your hair feels rough after showering.
3. 3Scale builds up in your kettle, coffee machine or iron.
4. 4Your water heater takes longer to heat, uses more energy or makes unusual noises.
5. 5Laundry feels stiff and colours become dull over time.
6. 6You find yourself using more soap, shampoo or fabric conditioner.
7. 7Your washing machine or dishwasher needs frequent scale-related maintenance.
8. 8Water flow falls and mineral deposits are suspected in the plumbing.
9. 9White deposits block tap aerators and shower heads.
10. 10Your municipality’s recorded water hardness is high.

These signs are a reason to investigate, not a diagnosis. A hardness measurement helps establish whether a softener is appropriate.

Recognise several of these signs?

Start by finding your water hardness. Enter your municipality for the available official data, or arrange a free home test to measure the water at your address. The team can then advise you on suitable equipment.

Already considering installation? Our model finder combines household size, hardness and your needs to suggest a model with its supply-and-installation price.