Market Harborough Water Hardness & Quality Report (2026)

Severn Trent Water supplies Market Harborough, a town in Leicestershire, with a mixed water source. Their supply originates from reservoirs like Rutland Water and Grafham Water, rivers such as the Welland and Avon, and groundwater drawn from boreholes that tap into the Triassic sandstones and limestone aquifers. Water undergoes treatment at facilities including the Market Harborough Water Treatment Works, alongside nearby plants like Stanford and Draycote. This comprehensive process ensures the water meets stringent UK drinking water standards. The utility provides postcode-specific quality data, updated annually, on its website.

The water's journey begins in the East Midlands watershed, encompassing the Welland Valley and upper Nene catchment. Geologically, the area is characterized by Jurassic and Triassic strata. Key formations include Carboniferous limestones from the Peak District fringe and the Permian Magnesian Limestone. These formations feed into Triassic mudstones and sandstones. The abundance of carbonate rocks in these geological layers leads to the dissolution of calcium and magnesium, resulting in a hard water supply that is prone to mineral scaling. Surface water from reservoir catchments is blended with mineralized groundwater, contributing to the overall moderately hard to hard water profile.

Homeowners in areas with moderately hard to hard water often notice limescale buildup affecting appliances such as kettles, boilers, and showerheads. This scaling can reduce appliance efficiency by up to 12% and lead to higher energy bills. Over time, pipes and taps may also develop cloudy scaling. Regular descaling with vinegar, the use of limescale inhibitors, or boiling water for beverages can help manage this. For persistent scaling issues, installing a water softener is recommended to protect appliances and improve the lathering of soaps and detergents. Severn Trent Water maintains high compliance, with typical pH levels between 7.5 and 8.5, and meets all lead and copper standards following recent upgrades.