There’s something incredibly appealing about crisp, white clothes that exude freshness and cleanliness. However, maintaining the pristine whiteness of your garments can be quite a challenge, especially with stubborn stains and everyday wear. There are several causes of dull white clothes including stains, dye transfer and hard water. Fear not! In this blog, we’ll share some tried-and-true methods to help you achieve brilliant white clothes that look brand new, ensuring your wardrobe stands out with brightness and allure.

 

Separate Whites from Colours

The first step to keeping your whites dazzling is to sort your laundry meticulously. Separate white garments from coloured ones to prevent colour bleeding. Washing white clothes separately avoids the risk of coloured dye staining your whites, preserving their pristine appearance for longer.

 

 

Pre-Treat Stains

Tackle stains promptly to prevent them from setting in. Pre-treat any stains on your white clothes by applying a small amount of stain remover or liquid detergent directly to the affected area. Gently rub the fabric together to work the product in, and then let it sit for a few minutes before washing.

 

Use the Right Laundry Detergent

Choosing the right detergent is essential for whiter clothes. Opt for a high-quality laundry detergent specifically designed for whites, preferably one with bleach or enzymes that target stains. This will help break down tough stains and keep your whites looking brilliant.

 

Add Boosters

Enhance the whiteness of your laundry with boosters. White vinegar and baking soda are eco-friendly options, or oxygen-based bleach can work wonders when added to your regular detergent. These boosters help lift stains, brighten fabrics, and neutralise odours, leaving your whites fresher than ever.

 

Sun-Dry Your Whites

An eco-friendly solution is to harness the power of the sun to naturally bleach and whiten your clothes. Sunlight has natural bleaching properties that can help remove stubborn stains and maintain the brightness of your whites. Hang your white garments outside on a sunny day for an planet-friendly and effective brightening boost.

 

Avoid Overloading the Washing Machine

Overloading the washing machine can prevent your white clothes from getting a thorough clean. Ensure there is ample space for water and detergent to circulate freely, allowing for better stain removal and overall cleaning.

 

Use Warm Water

When washing whites, opt for warm water instead of cold. Warm water is more effective at dissolving stains and removing dirt, resulting in brighter and cleaner clothes.

 

Regularly Clean Your Washing Machine

A clean washing machine contributes to whiter clothes. Over time, residue from detergents and fabric softeners can build up inside the machine, affecting its cleaning efficiency. Clean your washing machine regularly by running an empty cycle with vinegar or a washing machine cleaner to remove buildup and ensure optimal performance.

 

Install a Halcyan Water Conditioner

Protecting your washing machine from the damaging effects of hard water is essential to ensure its longevity and optimal performance. Hard water, which contains high mineral content, can lead to limescale buildup and reduce the efficacy of your washing machine. If you live in a hard water area, you might be surprised to learn that limescale can cause your white clothing to become dull and stained over time. By installing a Halcyan Water Conditioner, you can ensure that your washing machine is free from limescale and your whites stay bright and clean after every wash!

 

Conclusion

Keeping your white clothes white is no longer an elusive task with these simple yet effective tips. By separating whites from colours, pre-treating stains, using the right products, sun-drying your garments, and maintaining your washing machine’s cleanliness, you can achieve brilliant white clothes that radiate freshness and elegance. With a little care and attention, your whites will look brand new for longer. Say goodbye to dingy whites and embrace the brilliance of your freshly laundered, white garments!

 

If you’d like to find out how to keep your washing machine in top condition with 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 that ensures your washing machine is performing as it should. With our 30 Year Warranty and our 12 Month Money Back Performance Guarantee, you can enjoy peace of mind that our little device is taking care of your home and your washing machine too!

 

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Water is an essential part of our daily lives. From quenching our thirst to maintaining personal hygiene, we rely on water for numerous purposes. However, not all water is created equal. Hard water, in particular, has garnered attention for its potential impact on various aspects of our lives, including our skin health. In this blog post, we will delve into the question: “Is hard water bad for your skin?”

 

Understanding Hard Water:

To comprehend the impact of hard water on the skin, let’s start by understanding what it actually is. Hard water refers to water that contains a higher concentration of minerals such as calcium, magnesium, and iron. These minerals are acquired as the water passes through soil and rocks, absorbing dissolved particles along the way. Hard water affects homes differently in the UK and while it’s generally safe to drink, its effects on our skin can be a cause for concern.

 

The Impact on Your Skin:

1. Dryness and Irritation: Studies suggest that one of the primary concerns associated with hard water is its potential to strip away the skin’s natural oils, leading to dryness and irritation. It’s believed that excessive mineral content in hard water can contribute to the disruption of the skin’s natural barrier function, leaving it feeling more susceptible to moisture loss and environmental aggressors. For some, it’s reported that this can result in dry, itchy, and irritated skin, especially for individuals with pre-existing conditions such as eczema, dermatitis and psoriasis.
2. Clogged Pores: It’s also believed that hard water can contribute to clogged pores, which can lead to acne breakouts and other skin blemishes. Those who suffer report a feeling of residue on the skin. Over time, this buildup can lead to congested pores, blackheads, and even acne flare-ups.
3. Dull and Lacklustre Skin: Studies suggest that hard water can also create a film on the skin’s surface, making it feel dull and lacklustre and that this can prevent the natural radiance of your skin from shining through, leaving it looking tired and lifeless.

How can a Halcyan Water Conditioner Help?

The Halcyan Water Conditioner offers an effective solution to combat the potential negative effects of hard water on the skin. Halcyan’s advanced technology employs a unique alloy core which conditions the water. Here’s how it can benefit your skin:

1. Restoring Skin’s Natural Moisture Balance: Softer behaving water can help maintain the skin’s natural moisture balance by reducing the impact of mineral content in hard water. By doing so, they minimise the risk of moisture loss, leaving your skin more hydrated and less prone to dryness and irritation.
2. Promoting Clear and Healthy Complexion: By preventing mineral buildup on the skin, the Halcyan helps keep your pores clean and unclogged. This reduces the chances of acne breakouts and blemishes, promoting a clear and healthy complexion.
3. Enhancing Skin Radiance: With its ability to counter the dulling effects of hard water, conditioned water can also contribute to restoring your skin’s natural radiance, resulting in a brighter and more vibrant appearance.

 

Conclusion

While it’s believed that hard water can have adverse effects on your skin, particularly in terms of dryness and irritation, treating your hard water with a Halcyan Water Conditioner may help to reduce skin issues. 

 

Investing in a quality water conditioner is a proactive step toward safeguarding your skin from the potential detrimental effects of hard water. So, say hello to softer behaving water with Halcyan!

 

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. Our alloy-based Water Conditioner is an eco-friendly, people-friendly solution to hard water! If you’re looking for ways to improve the look and feel of your skin, get in touch with us to see how our Halcyan Water Conditioner can help. With our 30 Year Warranty and our 12 Month Money Back Performance Guarantee, you can love the skin you’re in for many years to come!

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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:

 

 

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

   

 

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

   

  

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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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?

 

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

 

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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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!

 

 

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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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

 

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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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.

 

 

The Pros of Water Softeners Systems  

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

• Reduced limescale build-up – Hard 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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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.

 

 

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. 

 

 

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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If you’ve ever been told that you live in a ‘hard water area’ then you might also be aware that water hardness is an important factor to consider when it comes to water quality. Hard water can cause problems such as limescale build-up in pipes and appliances. In this blog post, we will explore what water hardness is, how it is measured, and how hard the water is across the UK.

 

What is Water Hardness?

Water hardness is a measure of the amount of dissolved minerals, such as calcium and magnesium, in the water. These minerals come from the earth’s crust and are picked up by the water as it flows through rocks and soil. Water hardness is usually measured in milligrams per litre (mg/L) or parts per million (ppm).

 

	Water Hardness (mg/l CaCO3)
Soft	up to 100
Slightly hard	100 -150
Moderately hard	150 – 200
Hard	200 – 300
Very hard	More than 300

Source: Drinking Water Inspectorate

 

What Causes Hard Water?

Hardness in water is caused by dissolved minerals such as calcium and magnesium. These minerals are naturally present in most groundwater sources, but can also be added by man-made sources such as industrial waste or agricultural runoff. The amount of hardness present depends on the concentration of these minerals, which can vary from region to region.

 

Does it Matter if You Have Hard Water?

Hard water can cause several problems, such as limescale build-up, which can damage pipes and appliances. It can also make it difficult to get soap to lather and can leave a scum on surfaces, such as bathtubs and sinks. In contrast, soft water has a low mineral content and is less likely to cause these problems.

 

 

 

How Is Water Hardness Measured?

The hardness of water varies across the UK. Generally speaking, hard water tends to be more common in areas with higher levels of limestone or chalk geology, while soft water is more common in areas with higher levels of granite or sandstone geology.

 

 

Water hardness varies across the UK. According to a report by the Drinking Water Inspectorate, around 60% of the UK has hard or very hard water. The hardest water is found in the south and east of England, with the highest levels of hardness being recorded in the Thames Valley and the south-east of England. The softest water is found in the north-west of England, Scotland, and Northern Ireland. You can see how water hardness varies on the DWI’s map.

 

What Does This Mean For You?

If you live in an area with hard water, it’s important to be aware that your appliances such as boilers, kettles and showers are far less efficient over time when competing with limescale build-up. In the worst cases, appliances can even break down and need replacing. 

 

Fortunately, there are ways to reduce these effects. Installing a Halcyan Water Conditioner will help reduce scale build-up on pipes and appliances by making your water behave like soft water as it enters your home. Another option is to use a descaler, which breaks down the minerals in the water, making them less likely to cause problems.

 

You can also use vinegar or lemon juice to remove limescale build-up from surfaces, such as shower heads and taps. Using a soap or detergent specifically designed for hard water can also help to reduce the scum and make it easier to get soap to lather.

 

Conclusion

It’s important to be aware that the hardness level of your drinking supply can vary depending on where you live in the UK. While it can cause several problems, there are ways to reduce its effects, such as using a water conditioner or descaler.  By understanding the hardness of your water, you can take steps to protect your pipes and appliances and enjoy cleaner, better-tasting 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 say goodbye to damaging hard water for good!

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We all know that soap is essential for keeping our hands and bodies clean. But did you know that the type of water you use to wash with can have a big impact on how effective your soap is? Hard water, or water with high levels of minerals like calcium and magnesium, can make it difficult for soap to lather and perform its cleaning duties. In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at how hard water affects soap and what you can do about it.

 

What is Hard Water?

Hard water is any type of water that has a high mineral content. This usually includes calcium, magnesium, and other minerals that are naturally occurring in the environment. These minerals are not harmful to our health but they can reduce effectiveness when it comes to using soap as well as causing problems for our plumbing and appliances.

 

How Does Hard Water Affect Soap?

When hard water mixes with soap, it forms a substance called “soap scum” which is a sticky residue that can be difficult to remove from surfaces. This happens because the minerals in the hard water react with the fatty acids in the soap and form an insoluble substance that won’t dissolve in water. This interferes with the ability of soap to create a good lather. As a result, soap becomes less effective at cleaning and can leave a film on skin and hair.

 

What Can You Do About It?

If you live in an area with hard water, there are several things you can do to make sure your soap works properly:

 

1) Use a Water Softener: A water softener will remove most of the minerals from your tap water so that it won’t react with your soap. This will help ensure that your soap lathers properly and performs its cleaning duties effectively. There are a few downsides to water softeners such as their negative impact on the environment and the required space to house the equipment.

 

2) Use a Water Conditioner: A water conditioner affects the way minerals in hard water behave, meaning that your hard water will behave more like softened water but without the salt. This will have a similar effect to using salt-softened water but without the negative environmental impact. Our Halcyan Water Conditioner is a tiny addition to your home with a huge impact!3) Use Liquid Soap: Liquid soaps are less likely to form scum when mixed with hard water than bar soaps are. If you live in an area with hard water, consider switching to liquid soaps instead of bar soaps for better results.

 

 

4) Use Hot Water: Hotter temperatures help break down the molecules in the minerals which makes them less likely to form scum when mixed with soap. Try washing with hot (but not too hot!) tap water instead of cold or warm for better results.

 

5) Add Vinegar: For washing your clothing, adding a few tablespoons of vinegar to your wash cycle can help break down any scum that has already formed on surfaces or fabrics due to hard water use. Just be sure not to use too much vinegar as this could damage some fabrics or surfaces!

 

Conclusion

Hard water can have a significant impact on soap, causing it to form soap scum and reducing its ability to clean effectively. However, there are ways to combat the effects of hard water and ensure that your soap works as intended. By using a water conditioner and switching to liquid soap that is specially formulated for harder water, you can keep your skin, hair, and clothing clean and free from unsightly soap scum.

 

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. If you aren’t getting the results you were promised with your soap, shampoos and conditioners, get in touch with us to see how our Halcyan Water Conditioner can help! With our 30 Year Warranty and our 12 Month Money Back Performance Guarantee, you can enjoy brilliant bubbles without a care in the world!

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