Hard water is water with high concentrations of dissolved minerals, primarily calcium and magnesium. In Perth, these minerals naturally occur in our groundwater sources and can cause scale build-up in pipes, reduced efficiency in appliances, and other household issues that affect both water quality and the longevity of your plumbing system.
This page is part of our comprehensive guide to water contaminants in Perth. For an overview of Perth's water sources and treatment process, see our guide to Perth's drinking water supply.
Understanding Hardness in Perth's Water
Perth's water supply relies heavily on groundwater sources, which naturally contain minerals that contribute to water hardness. As rainwater filters through limestone and chalk deposits underground, it dissolves minerals before entering our water supply. The Water Corporation notes that these calcium and magnesium minerals cannot be removed by standard filtration, though specialized water softening systems can effectively address hardness issues. Key factors affecting water hardness in Perth include:
- Geographic location and local geology
- Seasonal variations in water sources
- The mix of groundwater and desalinated water in your area
- Water treatment processes used by local authorities
Perth's groundwater typically ranges from moderately hard to very hard, with calcium carbonate levels between 120-180 mg/L in many areas. The hardness varies significantly across suburbs, with northern and eastern suburbs often experiencing higher mineral content due to their proximity to specific groundwater sources.
You might notice hardness in your water through visible scale on taps and showerheads, soap that doesn't lather well, or a film left on glassware after washing. While these minerals are naturally occurring and safe to consume, they can cause numerous household problems over time.
Potential Risks of Hard Water
While hard water is generally safe to drink and may even provide some dietary minerals, it can cause several problems for your home and daily activities:
Household Impacts:
- Scale build-up in pipes reducing water flow and pressure
- Mineral deposits in appliances shortening their lifespan
- Increased energy consumption in water heaters (up to 25% efficiency loss)
- Spotting and streaking on dishes, glassware, and shower screens
- Difficulty getting soaps and detergents to lather properly
- Faster deterioration of washing machines and dishwashers
- Blocked showerheads and tap aerators requiring frequent cleaning
Personal Effects:
- Dry, itchy skin after showering
- Dull, lifeless hair that's difficult to manage
- Faded clothing colours and rough-feeling laundry
- Higher usage of cleaning products and detergents
- More frequent replacement of water-using appliances
The financial impact of hard water is often underestimated. When considering the shortened lifespan of appliances, increased energy costs, and additional cleaning products required, hard water can cost the average Perth household hundreds of dollars annually.
Recommended Filtration Solutions
Best Option: Advanced Water Softening System
This premium water softening system represents the cutting edge in water softening technology. The WaterMark approved system features a state-of-the-art intelligent valve that calculates backwash cycles based on your water volume and quality, ensuring optimal performance with minimal waste.
Key features:
- Volumetric technology adjusts to your water usage patterns
- 40 Lpm flow rate suitable for larger Perth homes
- 25mm connection for easy integration with existing plumbing
- Significantly reduces scaling and spotting throughout your home
- Self-monitoring system requires minimal maintenance

Better Option: Mid-Range Water Softening System
For medium-sized households, this system offers excellent hardness protection with a more compact footprint. It provides advanced valve technology but is designed for homes with moderate water usage.
Key features:
- 30 Lpm flow rate ideal for average Perth households
- 25mm connection works with standard plumbing configurations
- Reduces scale build-up in pipes and appliances
- Extends the lifespan of water heaters and washing machines
- Improves soap lathering and reduces detergent usage

Good Option: Scale Reduction System
This system offers an effective alternative to traditional water softening. While it doesn't remove minerals completely, it conditions the water to prevent scale formation, offering a balance between mineral content and scale protection.
Key features:
- Triple stage filtration that conditions water to reduce scale
- Also removes chlorine, sediment, and improves taste and odour
- No salt or chemicals required
- Simple installation and low maintenance
- Preserves beneficial minerals in drinking water

Concerned about hardness in your water? Call us at (08) 9315 5545 or book a free consultation to discuss filtration solutions!
How We Can Help
As Perth's water quality specialists, we specialise in addressing Perth's unique water quality challenges, including hard water issues:
- Expert water testing – We provide comprehensive testing to determine your exact water hardness level and recommend appropriate solutions
- Customised solutions – Our experienced team can design a water treatment approach specific to your home's needs and your family's water usage patterns
- Professional installation – Our licensed plumbers ensure your water softening system is installed correctly for maximum effectiveness
- Ongoing support – We provide maintenance, salt delivery services, and technical support to keep your system operating at peak efficiency
Our team has extensive experience with water softening technology with proven effectiveness against Perth's particularly challenging water conditions.
Protecting Your Home from Hard Water
Hard water is one of the most common water quality issues facing Perth homeowners, affecting everything from the efficiency of your appliances to the comfort of your showers. While the minerals in hard water aren't harmful to health, the cumulative impact on your home's plumbing system and appliances can be substantial. By investing in an appropriate water softening solution, you can protect your home, extend the life of your appliances, reduce cleaning time, and enjoy more comfortable water for bathing and cleaning.
Questions about hard water solutions? Call us at (08) 9315 5545 or book an appointment online for personalised advice.
FAQs About Hardness in Perth's Water
Look for white scale deposits on taps and showerheads, soap that doesn't lather well, spots on glassware after washing, and a film on shower screens. You can also use simple water hardness test kits available at hardware stores.
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