Bordon Water Hardness & Quality Report (2026)

South East Water supplies Bordon in East Hampshire, drawing from a combination of deep chalk boreholes and surface water sources across Hampshire and Surrey. The primary groundwater source for this part of Hampshire is the South Downs Chalk aquifer, accessed via boreholes treated at Alresford and Abbotstone treatment works before distribution northward to the Alice Holt and Bordon supply zones, blended with water from the Alton and Blackwater Valley network. At 208 mg/L (14.6°Clark), Bordon's water is firmly hard, driven by the chalk geology of the Hampshire downland.

The Upper Cretaceous Chalk of the South Downs and Hampshire downland is a thick, highly productive aquifer supplying much of south-east England's groundwater. Rainwater infiltrating the chalk undergoes extensive carbonate dissolution as it percolates downward through the porous matrix, emerging at boreholes with high concentrations of calcium and bicarbonate ions. The confined chalk beneath the Hampshire Basin concentrates dissolved minerals further, and Bordon's position near the chalk edge means its supply draws heavily on these mineralised groundwaters with long aquifer residence times.

Limescale accumulation in Bordon is a consistent domestic concern. Kettles should be descaled monthly to maintain efficient boiling and prevent chalk deposits in drinks. The combi-boiler benefits from a fitted in-line scale inhibitor to protect the heat exchanger, and annual servicing is advisable to check for calcium build-up. Washing-up liquid may require slightly higher quantities than the manufacturer suggests to achieve a satisfactory lather. Taps and shower heads develop visible limescale deposits within a couple of weeks; a fortnightly wipe with white vinegar or a proprietary descaling solution is recommended to keep fittings clean and prevent progressive damage to seals and valves.