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Buxton Water Hardness & Quality Report (2026)

Water Hardness

moderately hard

~150–199 mg/L

Moderately Hard

estimated · not lab-verified

Source

mixed

pH Level

7.7

neutral = 7.0

Lead

0.002 mg/L

✓ Below action level

TDS

298.8 mg/L

Est. Daily Cost

£0.40

energy & soap waste

Source: DWI Data Portal · Updated 2026

moderately hard~150–199 mg/LModerately Hard · 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 Buxton, your appliances are currently losing 23% efficiency due to mineral buildup.

ApplianceIn BuxtonSoft Water CityEfficiency Loss
Kettle
6.5 yrs
8.5 yrs-24%
Washing Machine
9.2 yrs
12 yrs-23%
Water Heater
11.6 yrs
15 yrs-23%

Regional Water Comparison

How Buxton compares to its nearest neighbours

CityHardnessClark°RiskSource
Buxton, East Midlands≈ 150–199 mg/L12.3°🟡 Moderately Hardmixed
High Peak, East Midlands≈ 150–200 mg/L13.3°🟡 Moderately Hardmixed
New Mills, East Midlands≈ 200–300 mg/L15.2°🟠 Hardmixed
Leek, West Midlands≈ 200–300 mg/L7.6°🟠 Hardmixed
Glossop, East Midlands≈ 200–300 mg/L11.5°🟠 Hardmixed

National Benchmark

How Buxton compares to the United Kingdom average

BenchmarkHardnessAppliance Risk
Buxton≈ 150–199 mg/L🟡 Moderate
United Kingdom National Avg177 mg/L🟡 Moderate
Skipton Top Rated7.1 mg/L🟢 None

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What Makes Buxton's Water Unique?

Local geology and source profile

Source: MixedTDS: 298.8 mg/LpH: 7.7

Buxton's water can be supplied by either Severn Trent Water or Anglian Water, with the specific provider determined by your postcode. The exact treatment plant and reservoir feeding your home will need to be confirmed directly through the relevant utility's online resources. Buxton is nestled within the Peak District, an area characterized by its Carboniferous limestone formations dating back to the Dinantian period. This geological setting is key to the water's character.

As rainwater filters through the porous limestone underground, it naturally picks up dissolved minerals, primarily calcium and magnesium. This process is what gives the water its moderately hard quality, a common trait for much of the East Midlands region. The underlying limestone geology is responsible for this mineral content.

Homeowners in Buxton might notice the effects of moderately hard water, such as a gradual buildup of limescale in appliances like kettles, boilers, and shower heads. Consistent cleaning of these fixtures can help manage this. For those particularly bothered by scale accumulation, installing a household water softener is an option, though it's not a necessity for health reasons. For detailed information on lead and copper levels, pH, and overall compliance, residents should refer to their specific utility's annual water quality report or use their online postcode checker.

Geology & Source: Carboniferous limestone (Dinantian); dissolved calcium and magnesium minerals result in moderate hardness

Other East Midlands Water Reports

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is Buxton's water safe to drink?
Yes. Buxton's water meets all DWI drinking water standards. The hardness is ≈ 150–199 mg/L (Moderately Hard), which is safe to drink. High hardness affects appliances and taste, but poses no health risk.
Do I need a water softener in Buxton?
At ≈ 150–199 mg/L (Moderately Hard), Buxton'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 23%.
How does Buxton compare to the United Kingdom average?
The United Kingdom national average is 177 mg/L. Buxton (≈ 150–199 mg/L) is 2 mg/L below the national average. The softest major city is Skipton at just 7.1 mg/L.