Godalming Water Hardness & Quality Report (2026)

For residents of Godalming in Surrey, Thames Water Utilities Limited is the provider of your tap water. Your supply originates from groundwater, specifically drawn from the Chalk aquifer through boreholes located in the Wey Valley. This water then undergoes treatment at facilities like the Bramley or Chertsey works. Here, it's filtered, disinfected with chlorine, and supplemented with fluoride before reaching your home. The North Downs region, where the upper River Wey catchment lies, is key to this supply, as rainfall seeps into the porous Chalk aquifer and surrounding sands.

The geological makeup of the Godalming area is a significant factor in your water's quality. The primary aquifer here is the Chalk Group, a type of limestone dating back to the Late Cretaceous period. This formation is known for its permeability, allowing rainwater to dissolve minerals like calcium carbonate as it filters through the rock. Below this, the Upper Greensand and Gault Clay from the Lower Cretaceous period also contribute to the water's mineral content. These karstic carbonate rocks naturally lead to a hard water supply because the water picks up these dissolved minerals.

This hard water can lead to a noticeable buildup of limescale in appliances like kettles, boilers, and showerheads, which can decrease their efficiency and shorten their lifespan. For instance, dishwashers and washing machines might see their energy consumption rise by as much as 12% due to scale deposits. To combat issues like soap scum and staining, homeowners often find regular descaling with household items such as vinegar or citric acid helpful. Many also opt for installing magnetic conditioners or ion-exchange water softeners. Thames Water ensures the water meets strict standards, generally maintaining a pH between 7.2 and 7.6.