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Bolsover Water Hardness & Quality Report (2026)

Water Hardness

hard

~200–300 mg/L

Hard

estimated · not lab-verified

Source

mixed

pH Level

8.4

neutral = 7.0

Lead

0.001 mg/L

✓ Below action level

TDS

406.5 mg/L

Est. Daily Cost

£0.57

energy & soap waste

Source: DWI Data Portal · Updated 2026

hard~200–300 mg/LHard · est.

0–99

mg/L

Soft

100–149

mg/L

Slightly Hard

150–199

mg/L

Moderately Hard

200–300

mg/L

Hard

300+

mg/L

Very Hard

Appliance Damage Report

In Bolsover, your appliances are currently losing 33% efficiency due to mineral buildup.

ApplianceIn BolsoverSoft Water CityEfficiency Loss
Kettle
5.7 yrs
8.5 yrs-33%
Washing Machine
8 yrs
12 yrs-33%
Water Heater
10 yrs
15 yrs-33%

Regional Water Comparison

How Bolsover compares to its nearest neighbours

CityHardnessClark°RiskSource
Bolsover, East Midlands≈ 200–300 mg/L17.5°🟠 Hardmixed
Staveley, East Midlands≈ 0–100 mg/L9°🟢 Softmixed
Shirebrook, East Midlands186 mg/L13°🟡 Moderately Hardmixed
Sutton in Ashfield, East Midlands≈ 200–300 mg/L7.5°🟠 Hardmixed
Beighton, Yorkshire and the Humber≈ 200–300 mg/L12.5°🟠 Hardmixed

National Benchmark

How Bolsover compares to the United Kingdom average

BenchmarkHardnessAppliance Risk
Bolsover≈ 200–300 mg/L🟠 High
United Kingdom National Avg177 mg/L🟡 Moderate
Skipton Top Rated7.1 mg/L🟢 None

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What Makes Bolsover's Water Unique?

Local geology and source profile

Source: MixedTDS: 406.5 mg/LpH: 8.4

Severn Trent Water serves Bolsover, Derbyshire, drawing from a mix of sources. These include groundwater from aquifers like the Sherwood Sandstone Group, surface water from the River Trent and its tributaries, and reservoirs such as Carsington Water. Water undergoes comprehensive treatment, including filtration, disinfection, and fluoridation, at facilities like those in the Derwent Valley before reaching residents.

The region's water originates in the Trent catchment, flowing through Triassic sandstones and mudstones. Key aquifers are found in the Permo-Triassic strata beneath Derbyshire, featuring rock formations like the Mercia Mudstone. As water moves through the rock's fissures and fractures, it dissolves minerals, resulting in a water supply that is naturally moderately hard to hard. This prolonged interaction within the lowland aquifer system contributes to elevated dissolved solids.

Homeowners in Bolsover likely notice limescale buildup in appliances like kettles, boilers, and showerheads, which can decrease their efficiency and shorten their lifespan. Washing machines, dishwashers, and hot water systems are particularly susceptible, as scale acts as an insulator on heating elements. Regular descaling with vinegar can help, as can installing magnetic conditioners or using filtered water for drinks. For persistent scaling issues and to protect plumbing, installing a water softener is often recommended to improve soap lathering and appliance longevity. Severn Trent consistently receives high ratings from the Drinking Water Inspectorate.

Geology & Source: Mercian Mudstone Group and Sherwood Sandstone Group aquifers; limestone, dolomite, and calcareous sandstones create moderately hard to hard water

Other East Midlands Water Reports

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is Bolsover's water safe to drink?
Yes. Bolsover's water meets all DWI drinking water standards. The hardness is ≈ 200–300 mg/L (Hard), which is safe to drink. High hardness affects appliances and taste, but poses no health risk.
Do I need a water softener in Bolsover?
At ≈ 200–300 mg/L (Hard), Bolsover's water will cause significant limescale on kettles, washing machines, and water heaters. A water softener or descaler is strongly recommended to extend appliance lifespan and reduce energy bills by up to 33%.
How does Bolsover compare to the United Kingdom average?
The United Kingdom national average is 177 mg/L. Bolsover (≈ 200–300 mg/L) is 73 mg/L above the national average. The softest major city is Skipton at just 7.1 mg/L.