UK region

Water hardness in East Midlands

Average 248 ppm across 106 postcode districts — classified as hard.

Range 150–385 ppm
Counties 5
Suppliers Anglian Water, Severn Trent Water

Regional average

248

ppm CaCO₃

Hard

Soft

Moderate

Hard

Very hard

0100200300400+

248

Avg ppm

150

Min ppm

385

Max ppm

106

Postcodes

Water Hardness Across East Midlands

The average water hardness in the East Midlands region is 248 ppm, classified as hard. Across 106 postcode districts, hardness ranges from 150 ppm to 385 ppm.

The region is served by Anglian Water, Severn Trent Water. Water hardness varies by county — see the breakdown below or check your specific postcode.

At 248 ppm, East Midlands ranks as hard water nationally. Compare it against the 50 hardest water areas in the UK.

By county

Counties in East Midlands

Sorted by hardness — see how your county compares.

County	Hardness	PPM	Level	Postcodes
Lincolnshire	343	343 ppm	Very Hard	13
Northamptonshire	278	278 ppm	Hard	19
Nottinghamshire	243	243 ppm	Hard	30
Leicestershire	224	224 ppm	Hard	21
Derbyshire	199	199 ppm	Hard	23

Suppliers

Water Companies in East Midlands

Tap on a company for full coverage area and hardness data.

Hard Water Guides

Learn more about water hardness and how to manage it.

What Is Water Hardness? Hard Water Effects Solutions

Recommended

Products for East Midlands

Top picks for households in hard water areas.

Splendid Twin Tank Water Softener

From ~£400

Twin-tank electric softener sized for 1 to 7 bedroom homes. Removes limescale from pipes, boilers, and appliances and delivers continuous soft water, with metered regeneration to keep salt use low.

View on Amazon

Philips Shower Filter

From ~£30

Instant improvement for skin and hair. Reduces chlorine and limescale at the showerhead, no plumbing needed. A good first step before committing to a full softener.

View on Amazon

FAQ

Common questions about East Midlands water

Is East Midlands's water hard or soft?

East Midlands is classified as hard water, averaging 248 ppm across 106 postcode districts. Expect visible limescale on kettles and taps within weeks at this level.

Is tap water in East Midlands safe to drink?

Yes. All tap water in East Midlands meets UK drinking water standards. Hardness affects taste and limescale buildup but not safety.

Why is water in East Midlands hard?

Water hardness in East Midlands depends on the geology — chalk and limestone aquifers dissolve calcium and magnesium into the supply, making it harder. Areas with sandstone or granite tend to be softer.

Does hard water affect boilers in East Midlands?

Over time, limescale acts as an insulator in heat exchangers, reducing efficiency by a few percentage points each year if untreated. A water softener can help protect your boiler.

What's the average water hardness in East Midlands?

The average water hardness across East Midlands is 248 ppm (parts per million), classified as hard. It ranges from 150 ppm to 385 ppm across 106 postcode districts.

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