See you at Build It Live in Bicester!

For more than 20 years, Build It magazine has been providing expert guidance, advice and inspiration for people looking to build their own home, renovate a property or undertake an extension of conversion project.

As Britain’s longest-running self-build magazine, Build It is a monthly guide to home building, DIY and renovation. Build It Live is the magazine’s annual exhibition, designed to provide face-to-face inspiration, thousands of products and expert consultations.

 

Build It’s interactive exhibitions take place annually in Kent, Oxfordshire and Exeter. The upcoming Bicester show takes place in association with Graven Hill, the UK’s largest self-build site, June 10-11th 2023.

 

Visit the Halcyan Water Conditioner Stand (E23) at Build It Bicester and discover the many benefits of treating hard water in your home, including significant energy savings, lower bills and reduced carbon emissions.

 

Want to visit Build It Live in Bicester? Get your tickets here.

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Why is the Water so Hard in the UK?

Water quality can vary greatly around the world, and one characteristic often experienced by UK households is “hard water.” The UK is known for having some of the hardest water in the world, and it’s a problem that many people struggle with. Hard water can cause a number of issues, from limescale build-up to reduced appliance efficiency. In this blog post, we’ll take a look at why the water is so hard in the UK and what you can do to make it better.

 

What Causes Hard Water?

Hard water is caused by a high concentration of minerals such as calcium and magnesium. These minerals are naturally found in underground rocks, and when they dissolve into the water supply they create hard water.

 

Geological Factors:

The geological composition of an area plays a significant role in determining water hardness. The UK is predominantly composed of sedimentary rocks, including limestone and chalk, which are rich in calcium carbonate. Over time, rainwater seeps through these rocks, absorbing mineral deposits and increasing the water’s hardness.

 

Source of Water:

 

UK Water Sources

 

The main water sources in the UK are rivers, lakes, and underground aquifers. Since these sources often pass through mineral-rich regions, they naturally accumulate minerals like calcium and magnesium. Consequently, the water derived from these sources tends to be harder in nature.

 

Distribution Network:

The extensive water distribution network in the UK is another contributing factor. As water travels through the pipelines, it can come into contact with mineral-rich deposits, further increasing its hardness. Although water treatment aims to minimise this contact, some minerals inevitably dissolve into the water supply.

Environmental Impact:

The UK has a long history of industrial activities, particularly coal mining and metal extraction, which have left a legacy of environmental impact. Pollutants from these activities can infiltrate water sources, affecting water quality and potentially contributing to increased hardness.

 

The Impact of Hard Water

Hard water can have a number of negative impacts on your home and health:

 

  • Limescale Build-up

     

Limescale build-up

 

One of the most common issues associated with hard water is the formation of limescale. As hard water evaporates, the dissolved minerals are left behind, causing the build-up of limescale on taps, showerheads, kettles, and other water-bearing appliances. Limescale not only affects the appearance of these fixtures but also reduces their efficiency over time.

 

  • Household Chores

Hard water can make household chores more challenging. It can leave soap scum on dishes and glassware, make laundry feel stiff, and reduce the effectiveness of cleaning agents. More detergent and cleaning products are often required to achieve satisfactory results, leading to increased costs.

 

  • Increased Costs

If you are in a hard water area, limescale could also be affecting your energy bills. When limescale builds up, appliances have to work significantly harder and for longer in order to heat up water. This can affect washing machines, boilers, kettles and electric showers. In addition to appliances costing more to use, limescale can also cause premature breakdowns meaning you need to replace your appliances more regularly.

 

  • Skin and Hair Issues

Hard water can have a noticeable impact on skin and hair. It may leave a residue that can clog pores, potentially leading to dryness, irritation, and exacerbating conditions like eczema.

 

How Can You Reduce the Effects of Hard Water?

Thankfully there are several methods for reducing the hardness of the water in your home:

 

  • Whole House Filtration System

The most common solution is to install a whole-house filtration system which will remove minerals from your tap water before it enters your home’s plumbing system. This will help reduce limescale build-up and improve the taste of your drinking water.

 

  • Water Softener

Another option is to install a softener which will remove calcium and magnesium ions from your tap water using an ion exchange process. This will help reduce limescale build-up but won’t improve the taste of drinking water as much as a filtration system would. You may also need to install a separate drinking water tap.

 

  • Halcyan Water Conditioner

     

    Halcyan Water Conditioner Unit

A very clean and simple solution to hard water is to install a Halcyan Water Conditioner. Once installed, its unique alloy changes the way that water behaves in your home. It doesn’t remove the minerals from the water but instead, the water behaves much like soft water would. The best part is that once you install a Halcyan, you can leave it to work its magic for the next 30 years!

 

Conclusion

While hard water is common in the UK, it does not pose any significant health risks. However, it can be a nuisance due to the various problems it causes, including limescale build-up, increased energy bills and cleaning requirements, and potential skin and hair issues. With various treatments, including the Halcyan Water Conditioner, you can alleviate the effects of hard water, but some options are simpler than others. Understanding the underlying reasons behind the prevalence of hard water in the UK can help you make informed choices about managing its impact on daily life.

 

If you’d like to find out more about the Halcyan Water Conditioner, you can explore our Knowledge Centre and find out how it works here. You can call our expert team on 0345 504 0656 for more information on how you can heat your water for less, by installing a Halcyan.

 

Why choose Halcyan?

Halcyan Water Conditioners is a British company based in Bristol and our alloy-based solution to hard water is unique to the UK. As leaders in our industry, our mission is to help our customers reduce the impact of hard water on their homes, saving money, saving energy and saving the planet with our eco-friendly, people-friendly water conditioners. We take huge pride in our customer satisfaction and our testimonials speak for themselves. With our 30 Year Warranty and our 12 Month Money Back Performance Guarantee, you can say goodbye to damaging hard water for good!

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Why You May Need to Install a Separate Drinking Water Tap if You Have a Water Softener

Water softeners are an increasingly popular way to reduce the amount of minerals in your water supply. While they are effective at removing these impurities, they can also affect the taste of your drinking water. To ensure that you have access to clean, safe drinking water, it is important to install a separate drinking water tap if you have a water softener. In this article, we will discuss why this is necessary and how to go about installing one.

 

What Are the Benefits of Installing a Separate Drinking Water Tap?

Installing a separate drinking water tap allows you to have access to clean, safe drinking water without having to worry about any potential contaminants or unpleasant tastes caused by the water softener. This is especially important if you have children or elderly family members who may be more sensitive to these issues. Additionally, having a separate tap will save you time and energy as you won’t need to worry about filtering your drinking water each time you need it.

 

How Does a Water Softener Affect Your Drinking Water?

Water softener salt

 

A water softener works by removing minerals from your home’s water supply such as calcium and magnesium by using salt. While this can be beneficial for reducing limescale build-up in pipes and appliances, it can also affect the taste of your drinking water.

 

How Can You Install a Separate Drinking Water Tap?

Plumber tap

 

Installing a separate drinking water tap is relatively straightforward and can usually be done in just one day with minimal disruption in most cases. While this may be a simple job for the competent DIY-er, for most it’s best to employ a professional plumber.

 

Is There an Alternative?

If you are searching for a way to keep your home free from limescale and would prefer not to install a separate drinking water tap, thankfully there is an alternative – you can install a water conditioner. Unlike water softeners, a water conditioner doesn’t use salts to soften your water, so you won’t experience drawbacks such as the need to install a separate tap for drinking water, or the environmental downsides often associated with salt softeners. The Halcyan Water Conditioner offers a quick and painless solution to hard water. With a very simple installation, you can enjoy the benefits of softer behaving water as our conditioner changes the way hard water behaves in your home, without impacting your drinking water supply.

 

Conclusion

Having access to clean, safe drinking water is essential for everyone’s health and well-being. If you have a water softener installed in your home, it is important that you also install a separate drinking water tap so that you can avoid any potential contaminants or unpleasant tastes caused by the softening process. You could look at an alternative way to have the benefits of soft water in your home by installing a Halcyan Water Conditioner, without the need to install a separate tap for your drinking water.

 

If you’d like to find out more about the Halcyan Water Conditioner, you can explore our Knowledge Centre and find out how it works here. You can call our expert team on 0345 504 0656 for more information on how you can heat your water for less, by installing a Halcyan.

 

Why choose Halcyan?

Halcyan Water Conditioners is a British company based in Bristol and our alloy-based solution to hard water is unique to the UK. As leaders in our industry, our mission is to help our customers save money, save energy and save the planet with our eco-friendly, people-friendly water conditioners. We take huge pride in our customer satisfaction and our testimonials speak for themselves. With our 30 Year Warranty and our 12 Month Money Back Performance Guarantee, you can put your trust in Halcyan Water Conditioners.

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Does Hard Water Damage Washing Machines?

Hard water is a common problem in many households and it can have a big impact on your home if left unchecked. In particular, hard water causes damage to household appliances such as boilers, kettles and electric showers and can even add significantly to your energy usage. It can also affect how you wash your clothes because of the impact of hard water on washing machines. In this blog post, we’ll discuss the effects of hard water on washing machines and how to prevent damage from occurring.

 

What Is Hard Water?

Hard water is water that has a high mineral content, usually caused by calcium and magnesium deposits. These minerals can build up in pipes, fixtures, and appliances over time, leading to problems like clogged drains and reduced water pressure. Hard water can also cause damage to washing machines due to the build-up of limescale within the water-bearing mechanisms. Depending on where you are in the UK, water hardness can vary significantly.

 

How Does Hard Water Damage Washing Machines?

Washing machine damage

 

Hard water can damage washing machines in several ways. The minerals in hard water can build up inside the machine over time in the form of limescale, causing corrosion and reducing the efficiency of the machine. The minerals can also cause soap scum to form on the interior of the machine, which can lead to clogs and other issues. When soap mixes with hard water, it can create a sticky residue that can clog the machine’s pipes and cause water to back up into the machine’s drum. This can lead to mould growth, and foul odours. In addition, hard water can leave behind residue on clothing after a wash cycle is complete. In a study commissioned by the Water Quality Association in 2009, the lifespan of a washing machine is significantly reduced by hard water. By using softer behaving water, you could see the lifespan of your washing machine increase by 40%.

 

Preventing Damage From Hard Water

Washing Machine Care

 

Fortunately, there are several steps you can take to prevent damage from hard water in your washing machine:

  • Use a water conditioner: A water conditioner will alter the way that water behaves in your plumbing and appliances. Unlike water softeners, the Halcyan Water Conditioner makes hard water behave like soft water so that you get all the benefits of softer water, without the negative impact of using water softeners.
  • Clean regularly: Regularly cleaning your washing machine will help remove any residue or build-up that has already accumulated inside the machine.
  • Use less detergent: Using too much detergent when you wash clothes with hard water can lead to soap scum build-up inside your machine. To prevent this from happening, use less detergent than you normally would when using hard water for laundry.
  • Use distilled or filtered water: If possible, use distilled or filtered water instead of tap water for laundry when dealing with hard water problems. This will help reduce mineral build-up inside your washing machine and keep it running smoothly for longer periods of time. 

 

Conclusion

Hard water can be damaging to washing machines if not properly addressed. Fortunately, there are several steps you can take to prevent damage from occurring such as using a water conditioner or filtered/distilled water for laundry and cleaning your washer regularly. By taking these precautions, you’ll be able to keep your washer running smoothly for years to come!

 

If you’d like to find out more about the Halcyan Water Conditioner, you can explore our Knowledge Centre and find out how it works here. You can call our expert team on 0345 504 0656 for more information on whether you have hard water and how you can benefit from installing a Halcyan.

 

Why choose Halcyan?

Halcyan Water Conditioners is a British company based in Bristol and our alloy-based solution to hard water is unique to the UK. Unlike water softeners, our alloy-based Water Conditioner is an eco-friendly, people-friendly solution to hard water and its impact on your washing machine. With our 30 Year Warranty and our 12 Month Money Back Performance Guarantee, you can enjoy laundered clothes that are always clean and fresh – as well as peace of mind that our little device is taking care of your washing machine too!

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All aboard the EcoDriven bus!

EcoDriven and the Sustainability Showcase Tour

 

This initiative is all about bringing sustainability to the forefront of peoples minds. It is the first ever roadshow with a bus retrofitted with sustainable and eco, materials and products that are better for the planet, and Halcyan are thrilled to be taking part.

 

The reason EcoDriven chose a bus was the ability to fill it with the very best sustainable materials and show them in action to the entire country, getting people and businesses involved on a core level.

 

People need to see things in action, they need to know it works and that it is better that what they are using already.  We are also bringing communities and businesses together in one massive eco advertising mission, that will boost awareness of sustainable living choices and products.

There is something special about seeing things in action and working – that is why we decided to create the largest mobile showcase possible – a double-decker bus full of these products stopping at many cities and locations for the whole of the UK to see and interact with in person or via our digital and TV partners.

 

EcoDriven will do this is by travelling to multiple participating locations and cities, where businesses and people can come on board and see things in action.  The wattage of the solar roof, the thermal saving from the natural/recycled  insulation, the quality of the Cradle2Cradle Gold flooring.  The team will be transmitting for the entire tour, all of the sensor data and learning while they go, making improvements, encouraging debate and participation.  It is a tour of hope for the future!

 

They will also, be hosting backseat talks (on Mycelium seating) and a Moss back wall.  These talks are about opening a debate and will include special guests, experts in their field, politicians, business leaders and local people.

 

The bus stops will allow us and the locations to have a mini event of one to a few days in length, sharing and publishing what is available and special locally, plus the challenges faced unique to the area.

 

Join us for the most important tour in current times!

 

The bus will be in Bristol, the home of Halcyan Water Conditioners, from Wednesday 21 June 2023 for 3 days.

 

Find out more about the tour, including the route, here.

 

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How to Get Rid of Limescale without Harsh Chemicals

Limescale is a common problem in households, especially in areas with hard water and can be a real nuisance in the home, leaving surfaces looking dull and unsightly. It is a build-up of mineral deposits, primarily calcium and magnesium, on surfaces such as taps, showerheads, and kitchen appliances. It’s also notoriously difficult to remove, especially if you’re trying to avoid using harsh chemicals. But don’t worry – there are plenty of natural ways to get rid of limescale without resorting to strong cleaning products – many of which are harmful to the environment and also your health. Here are some tips for tackling limescale the natural way.

 

Using Natural Ingredients

One of the best ways to get rid of limescale is by using natural ingredients that you already have in your kitchen cupboards. There are various substances which are kind to your home, your health and the environment but also pack a good punch where cleaning is concerned!

 

Remove limescale with natural ingredients

 

  1. White vinegar: Vinegar is a natural acid that can dissolve mineral deposits. For small areas, you can soak a cloth in vinegar and place it over the limescale for a few hours or overnight. For larger areas, you can mix equal parts of vinegar and water in a spray bottle, spray the affected area, and leave it for a few minutes before wiping it away with a cloth.
  2. Lemon juice: Lemon juice is another natural acid that can remove limescale. Cut a lemon in half and rub it directly onto the limescale. Leave it for a few minutes before wiping it away with a cloth.
  3. Bicarbonate of soda: Bicarbonate of soda is an abrasive cleaner that can help remove limescale from surfaces. Mix bicarbonate of soda with water to create a paste and apply it to the affected area. Leave it for a few minutes before scrubbing it away with a brush or cloth. Bicarbonate of soda is also an excellent deodoriser which makes it a perfect cleaning agent for the bathroom.
  4. Citric acid: Citric acid is a natural acid that can dissolve limescale. Mix citric acid with water and apply it to the affected area. Leave it for a few minutes before wiping it away with a cloth.
  5. Steam cleaning: Steam cleaning is an effective way to remove limescale from surfaces such as tiles and shower screens without harsh chemicals. They use hot steam to loosen up dirt, grime and limescale so that it can be easily wiped away with a damp cloth or sponge. Steam cleaners are particularly useful for removing limescale from hard-to-reach areas such as showerheads, taps and tiles. Just make sure that you follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully when using one!
  6. Using Preventative Measures: The best way to tackle limescale is by preventing it from forming in the first place! This can be done by installing a water conditioner which reduces the effect of minerals in your water supply, making it less likely that limescale will form on surfaces over time. A Halcyan Water Conditioner changes the way hard water behaves in your home, reducing the risk of limescale build-up.

 

Conclusion

Limescale can be a nuisance, but you don’t need harsh chemicals to get rid of it. There are many natural and effective ways to remove limescale from various surfaces in your home. White vinegar, lemon juice, bicarbonate of soda, citric acid, steam cleaning, and installing a Halcyan Water Conditioner are all effective methods to remove limescale without using harsh chemicals. So, the next time you notice limescale build-up, try one of these natural methods before reaching for the harsh chemicals.

 

If you’d like to find out more about the Halcyan Water Conditioner, you can explore our Knowledge Centre and find out how it works here. You can call our expert team on 0345 504 0656 for more information on how you can heat your water for less, by installing a Halcyan

 

Why choose Halcyan?

Halcyan Water Conditioners is a British company based in Bristol and our alloy-based solution to hard water is unique to the UK. As leaders in our industry, our mission is to help our customers save money, save energy and save the planet with our eco-friendly, people-friendly water conditioners. We take huge pride in our customer satisfaction and our testimonials speak for themselves. With our 30 Year Warranty and our 12 Month Money Back Performance Guarantee, you can be sure that the Halcyan will keep your home scale free, making it easier to keep your home clean without the need for harsh chemicals.

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How to Clean Your Shower Screen: A Step-by-Step Guide

Having a clean shower screen is essential to keeping your bathroom looking fresh and hygienic. Many people opt for gleaming glass screens due to their classic clean look but over time, soap scum, hard water marks, and mildew can build up on the surface, making it appear cloudy and unappealing. Like any other surface in your home, they need regular cleaning to keep them looking their best. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to clean your shower screen and restore it to its former glory.

 

Step 1: Gather Your Supplies

Before you begin cleaning your shower screen, make sure you have all the necessary supplies on hand. You will need a bucket, a sponge, a squeegee, a scrub brush, white vinegar or a cleaning solution specifically designed for shower screens, and a microfiber cloth. You may also want to have some glass cleaner on hand for tougher stains. Limescale deposits on shower screens can be extremely difficult to remove. In our previous blog, we shared our top tips for removing limescale to keep your bathroom sparkling clean.

 

Step 2: Prepare the Area and Remove Loose Debris

Before you start cleaning, make sure the area around your shower screen is clear of any clutter or debris that could hamper your cleaning efforts. Hair, loose dirt and shampoo bottles are just some of the things that could get in your way. This will help you get the best results and make sure you don’t miss any spots.

 

Step 3: Apply Cleaning Solution

Clean shower limescale

 

Once you’ve gathered all your supplies and prepared the area, it’s time to start cleaning! Start by dampening your cloth with warm water and mild detergent or cleaning solution. Gently wipe down the surface of the shower screen with this mixture until it is free of dirt and grime. Allow the cleaning solution to sit on the surface of the shower screen for a few minutes. This will help to break down any soap scum or hard water stains that have accumulated. If there are any tough stains that won’t come off with this method, try using a glass cleaner or a more powerful cleaner specifically designed for shower screens. If you’re struggling to remove water marks created by hard water, try a dab of vinegar or lemon juice. Using a scrub brush or sponge, gently scrub the surface of the shower screen. Pay special attention to any areas that have particularly stubborn stains. Avoid using abrasive materials like steel wool or scouring pads, as they can scratch the surface of the screen.

 

Step 4: Rinse & Dry

Once you’ve finished wiping down the shower screen with detergent or cleaner, it’s time to rinse it off with clean water and dry it with a soft cloth. This will help ensure that no residue is left behind that could cause streaks or spots on your shower screen over time. Use a squeegee to remove excess water from the surface of the screen. Make sure to dry it thoroughly to prevent any water spots from forming.

 

Tips for Maintaining Your Shower Screen

Cleaning your shower screen regularly is important for keeping it looking its best, but there are also some other tips you can follow to help maintain its condition over time:

 

  • Avoid using abrasive cleaners as these can scratch or damage the surface of your shower screen over time.
  • Try not to use too much pressure when wiping down the surface as this can cause scratches or marks on the glass.
  • Make sure you dry off any excess water after each use as this can cause streaks and spots if left unattended for too long.
  • If possible, try to avoid using harsh chemicals such as bleach as these can damage both glass and metal surfaces over time if used too often.
  • Install a Halcyan Water Conditioner to prevent limescale deposits from forming and make cleaning your shower screen even easier!

 

Conclusion

Cleaning your shower screen doesn’t have to be a difficult task! With just a few simple steps and some basic supplies, you can easily keep it looking its best without much effort at all! Following our advice will help you to clean your shower screen and keep it looking great for years to come. Regular cleaning will also help to prevent the buildup of soap scum and hard water stains, making it easier to maintain. To keep your shower screen clean and limescale free, you can install a Halcyan Water Conditioner to enjoy the benefits of treated water in your home.

 

If you’d like to find out more about the Halcyan Water Conditioner, you can explore our Knowledge Centre and find out how it works here. You can call our expert team on 0345 504 0656 for more information on whether you have hard water and how you can benefit from installing a Halcyan.

 

Why choose Halcyan?

Halcyan Water Conditioners is a British company based in Bristol and our alloy-based solution to hard water is unique to the UK. The effects of hard water on your cleaning routine are significant. Bathroom accessories such as shower screens and shower heads are particularly prone to mineral deposits and this can make cleaning a real chore. Our alloy-based Water Conditioner is an eco-friendly, people-friendly solution to grimy shower screens. With our 30 Year Warranty and our 12 Month Money Back Performance Guarantee, you protect your home now and into the future with Halcyan.

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We’ve signed up to the Better Business Act!

We’re delighted to announce that we have signed up to the Better Business Act which aims to Change the UK law to ensure every company in the UK aligns their interests with those of wider society and the environment.

What is the Better Business Act?

The Better Business Act will transform the way we do business, so that every single company in the UK, whether big or small, takes ownership of its social and environmental impact.

The objective is to see these four principles reflected in an amended Section 172 of the Companies Act:

  • Aligned Interests
    The interests of shareholders are now advanced alongside those of wider society and the environment. This establishes a new principle of fiduciary duty within Section 172 of the Companies Act.
  • Empowering Directors
    This change must empower directors to exercise their judgement in weighing up and advancing the interests of all stakeholders.
  • Default Change
    This change must apply to all businesses by default. It must no longer be optional to benefit wider stakeholders beyond shareholders.
  • Reflected in Reporting
    Following this change, businesses must report on how they balance people, planet and profit in a strategic report or impact report, where one is currently required.

It can no longer be a choice to align the long-term interests of people, planet and profit. The Better Business Act will transform the way we do business, so that every single company in the UK takes ownership of its social and environmental impact.

 

You can find out more about the campaign, which is chaired by Mary Portas and Douglas Lamont, here.

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Water Softeners Systems : Will Water Softeners Be Banned in the UK?

Water Softeners Systems are a popular way to reduce the amount of minerals in hard water, making it easier for people to use for washing and other household tasks. However, there has been some debate recently about whether or not water softeners Systems should be banned in the UK. In this blog post, we will explore the arguments for and against a ban on water softeners Systems in the UK.

 

What Is a Water Softeners System?

A water softener systemis a device that is used to reduce the amount of minerals such as calcium and magnesium in hard water. This makes it easier for people to use for washing and other household tasks, as well as reducing limescale build-up on surfaces and appliances. It works by filtering the water entering your home and removing the minerals through a process of ion exchange. Water enters a tank where negatively charged resin beads attract the positively charged minerals, removing them from the water that moves around your home. Routinely, a water softening system will flush away the collected minerals with a salt water solution and the process begins again.

 

salt

 

The Pros of Water Softeners Systems  

There are many benefits that come with using a water softener, including:

  • Reduced limescale build-upHard water can cause limescale build-up on surfaces and appliances which can be difficult to remove. A water softener can help reduce this problem by removing minerals from the water as it enters your home.
  • Easier cleaning – Hard water can make cleaning more difficult as soap doesn’t lather up as easily in hard water compared to soft water. A water softener can make cleaning easier by removing minerals from the water which makes it easier for soap to lather up.
  • Reduced damage to appliances – Hard water can cause damage to appliances over time due to mineral deposits building up inside them. A water softener can help reduce this problem by removing minerals from the water before it enters your home.

 

The Cons of Water Softeners Systems

While there are many benefits that come with using a water softener, there are also some drawbacks that need to be considered:

  • Cost – Water softeners can be expensive to install and maintain, so they may not be an option for everyone.
  • Environmental impact – The process of removing minerals from hard water requires salt which has an environmental impact as briny effluent is expelled into the watercourse.
  • Health risks – Some studies have suggested that drinking softened water may increase your risk of developing certain health conditions such as heart disease or kidney stones due to its low mineral content and so many homes using salt softeners opt to install a separate tap for drinking water.

 

Should Water Softener Systems Be Banned in the UK?

At present, there is no ban on using or selling water softeners in the UK but some have argued that they should be banned due to their potential environmental impact and health risks associated with drinking softened water. However, others argue that banning them would be unfair as they provide many benefits such as reducing limescale build-up and making cleaning easier which outweigh any potential risks associated with their use. Ultimately, it is up to each individual person or business to weigh up the pros and cons to determine whether they choose to use a water softener or not,

 

What’s The Alternative?

If you’re concerned about the damaging effect of hard water on your home but want to mitigate any negative impact on the environment, there are alternatives to water softeners such as a water conditioner. These work differently to water softeners as they don’t actually remove the minerals from your water so there’s no need to flush away mineral deposits with salt or worry that the water leaving your home is harmful in any way.

Halcyan Water Conditioners are a simple and convenient alternative to water softeners. It contains a unique alloy that changes the way that water behaves. Water that has passed through a Halcyan behaves much like soft water as it passes through your appliances and plumbing! Just a few weeks or months after installing a Halcyan, our clever conditioner will actually work to remove existing limescale from your home as well as preventing new limescale from forming.

The best news of all is that the Halcyan Water Conditioner is an eco-friendly and people-friendly solution to hard water!

 

 

Conclusion

While there is currently no ban on water softeners in the UK, there is a growing concern regarding their environmental impact and the potential health risks associated with drinking salt-softened water. Although water softeners offer several benefits such as reducing limescale build-up and making cleaning easier, alternatives like water conditioners may be a more eco-friendly and people-friendly solution to hard water. Ultimately, it is up to each individual to weigh the benefits and drawbacks of using a water softener or an alternative and make an informed decision.

 

If you’d like to find out more about the Halcyan Water Conditioner, you can explore our Knowledge Centre and find out how it works here. You can call our expert team on 0345 504 0656 for more information on whether you have hard water and how you can benefit from installing a Halcyan.

 

Why choose Halcyan?

Halcyan Water Conditioners is a British company based in Bristol and our alloy-based solution to hard water is unique to the UK. Unlike water softeners, our alloy-based Water Conditioner is an eco-friendly, people-friendly solution to hard water. With our 30 Year Warranty and our 12 Month Money Back Performance Guarantee, you protect your home now and into the future with Halcyan.

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How Much Money Does Limescale Add to Energy Bills?

Limescale can have a significant impact on energy bills. In this blog post, we’ll explore the costs associated with limescale build-up and what you can do to reduce your energy bills.

 

What is Limescale?

Limescale is a mineral deposit that forms when hard water (water with high levels of calcium and magnesium) evaporates. It’s most commonly found in areas with hard water, such as the UK, where it can build up in pipes and appliances over time. Limescale deposits are often white or yellowish in colour, and they can be difficult to remove once they’ve built up.

 

Limescale Build Up

 

How Does Limescale Affect Energy Bills?

The build-up of limescale in pipes and appliances can have a significant impact on energy bills. When limescale builds up on heating elements it reduces the efficiency of the appliance, meaning that more energy is required to achieve the same result when heating water. This means that you’ll be paying more for your energy bills than you would if there was no limescale present.

 

How much money does limescale add to bills?

It’s a well documented fact that 60% households in the UK are supplied with hard water which causes limescale in the home. Incredibly this can add £500 or more to your annual energy bills as limescale covered heating elements (for example in your kettle, boiler and electric shower) use significantly more energy to heat the water used in your home. In fact just 3mm of limescale can increase energy consumption by 25%! This means energy bills are much higher than necessary, and so is the carbon footprint of the home. 

 

Limescale increases energy bills

 

What Can You Do To Reduce Your Energy Bills?

There are several steps you can take to reduce your energy bills if you have limescale build-up in the home:

 

  1. Install a water softener – A water softener will help reduce the amount of calcium and magnesium in your water supply, which will help reduce the amount of limescale build-up over time. Make sure you do your research into water softeners as they aren’t the most environmentally-friendly way to reduce limescale.
  2. Install a water conditioner – A Halcyan Water Conditioner is a great solution if you’re looking for a people-friendly, eco-friendly way to reduce the impact limescale has on your energy bills. Halcyan not only prevents hard water from leaving mineral deposits in your appliances and plumbing, but it actually removes existing limescale too! As the Halcyan doesn’t require anything other than a small amount of space in your pipework, it’s a really simple and convenient way to protect your home – and your bank balance! 
  3. Use descaling products – There are various descaling products available on the market which can help remove existing limescale deposits from pipes and appliances. These products should be used regularly to keep limescale at bay. 
  4. Regularly maintain your appliances – Regular maintenance of your appliances will help ensure that they remain efficient and don’t suffer from any unnecessary wear-and-tear due to limescale build-up. This could include cleaning filters regularly or replacing parts when necessary.

Conclusion

Limescale build-up can have a significant impact on energy bills, especially over a long period of time, but there are steps you can take to reduce its effects on your wallet. Installing a water conditioner, using descaling products regularly and maintaining your appliances regularly are all effective ways of reducing the amount of money spent on energy bills due to limescale.

If you’d like to find out more about the Halcyan Water Conditioner, you can explore our Knowledge Centre and find out how it works here. You can call our expert team on 0345 504 0656 for more information on how you can heat your water for less, by installing a Halcyan

 

Why choose Halcyan?

Halcyan Water Conditioners is a British company based in Bristol and our alloy-based solution to hard water is unique to the UK. As leaders in our industry, our mission is to help our customers save money, save energy and save the planet with our eco-friendly, people-friendly water conditioners. We take huge pride in our customer satisfaction and our testimonials speak for themselves. With our 30 Year Warranty and our 12 Month Money Back Performance Guarantee, you can be sure that the Halcyan will be working hard to keep you scale-free and save money on your bills for many years to come!

 

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