What is limescale in water?
Limescale is composed primarily of calcium and magnesium, two minerals naturally present in water. Hardness is measured in parts per million (ppm) or degrees Clark. Water is considered hard above approximately 200 ppm.
In the UK, water hardness varies enormously. London, the South East, East Anglia and parts of the Midlands are particularly affected, with water regularly exceeding 300 ppm.
The effects of limescale in daily life
On the taste of water
Very hard water tastes heavier, sometimes slightly chalky. Combined with chlorine, it can become genuinely unpleasant to drink. Many households end up buying bottled water for this reason.
On appliances and pipes
Limescale builds up on the heating elements of kettles, coffee machines and washing machines. The result: increased energy consumption and shorter appliance lifespan. Deposits in pipes can also reduce water flow over time.
On crockery and surfaces
White marks on glasses, deposits on taps, dull film on shower screens... Scale is a daily battle in hard water areas.
Solutions for limescale
The water softener
A softener is installed on the main water supply and uses ion-exchange resins to replace calcium and magnesium with sodium. Effective, but expensive: expect €800 to €2,000 to buy, plus €100 to €200/year in maintenance (salt, servicing). A plumber is needed for installation.
The filter jug
A jug uses activated carbon and ion-exchange resin. It partially reduces limescale but has limited capacity (around 100 to 150 litres per cartridge). The filter must be changed every 3 to 4 weeks, and filling and waiting takes several minutes.
The tap filter
A tap filter is the most balanced solution in terms of cost, convenience and effectiveness. It mounts directly on the kitchen tap, filters in real time and takes up no counter space.
Discover the Puramane filter
8 filtration stages, activated carbon + UV, 2,000 L per cartridge. From €44.90.
View the Puramane filter →Puramane against limescale
The Puramane filter integrates an ion-exchange resin into its 8-stage filtration system. This stage reduces limescale while preserving beneficial minerals like potassium. The result: softer water, no chalky taste, and protected appliances.
With a cartridge lasting 2,000 litres (3 to 4 months for an average household), the cost is just €0.02 per litre. The LED display shows water temperature and filter status in real time, battery-free thanks to hydraulic energy.
Installation takes 2 minutes, no tools, with 6 adaptors compatible with virtually all taps.
Frequently asked questions
Does a tap filter actually remove limescale?
A tap water filter equipped with ion-exchange resin effectively reduces limescale. The Puramane filter integrates this technology into its 8-stage filtration system, softening water while preserving essential minerals.
What is the difference between a water softener and a tap filter?
A water softener treats all the water in your home and costs between 800 and 2,000 euros plus annual maintenance. A tap filter like the Puramane treats only your drinking water for 44.90 euros and installs in 2 minutes without a plumber.
Is limescale in water harmful to health?
Limescale (calcium and magnesium) is not harmful to health. However, very hard water can taste unpleasant, leave white deposits on crockery and reduce the lifespan of household appliances.