Nottingham Water Hardness & Quality Report (2026)

Severn Trent Water supplies Nottingham, drawing from a mix of groundwater and surface water. The Sherwood Sandstone aquifer provides a significant portion of the supply, supplemented by water from the River Trent and River Derwent. Water treatment facilities employ conventional methods like clarification and sand filtration, followed by disinfection with chlorine, to prepare the water for distribution to homes and businesses throughout the city and the wider East Midlands region.

The area's geology is defined by Triassic Sherwood Sandstone and Mercia Mudstone formations, which lie above older Carboniferous Coal Measures. Groundwater from the Sherwood Sandstone aquifer travels through rock layers rich in limestone and marl. These geological materials are the source of dissolved calcium and magnesium, minerals that give the local water its characteristic moderately hard to hard rating. Seasonal variations in flow from the Trent and Derwent rivers do not significantly alter this mineral content.

Homeowners in Nottingham will likely notice the effects of moderately hard to hard water. Expect limescale buildup on appliances like kettles and shower heads, and you might find that soaps and detergents don't lather as effectively. To protect appliances such as water heaters, dishwashers, and washing machines from scale, regular descaling and maintenance are recommended. While not essential, many residents opt for water softeners or softening additives to combat these issues. Severn Trent Water provides detailed water quality reports, including hardness levels, on its website.