Shoreham-by-Sea Water Hardness & Quality Report (2026)

South East Water provides drinking water to Shoreham-by-Sea in West Sussex, UK, drawing primarily from groundwater sources. These supplies originate from the Chalk aquifer located beneath the South Downs, with water extracted through boreholes. The Adur catchment and South Downs watershed contribute to this supply. Water treatment facilities manage the abstraction from this aquifer, ensuring it reaches homes across the region. While Southern Water manages wastewater services, South East Water is responsible for the potable water delivered to residents.

The geology underpinning this supply is the Cretaceous Chalk Group aquifer, a significant limestone formation stretching across South East England. This chalk bedrock is porous, allowing rainwater to infiltrate and undergo natural filtration as it percolates through the ground. However, this process also leads to the dissolution of minerals, particularly calcium carbonate, resulting in the characteristically hard water found in this region. While some underlying Wealden Group sediments may influence water blends, the dominant Chalk geology dictates the mineral-rich chemistry.

Homeowners in Shoreham-by-Sea will likely notice the effects of very hard water, which can lead to significant limescale buildup in appliances like kettles, boilers, showerheads, and washing machines. This scale reduces efficiency and shortens the lifespan of these devices, with hot water systems being particularly susceptible. You might also observe scum forming on taps and fixtures. To manage these issues, regular descaling with household solutions like vinegar or citric acid, coupled with monthly appliance cleaning and maintaining boiler temperatures below 60°C, can help. For optimal protection of your plumbing and appliances, installing a water softener is strongly recommended in this very hard water area.