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Amesbury Water Hardness & Quality Report (2026)

Water Hardness

hard

~200–300 mg/L

Hard

estimated · not lab-verified

Source

mixed

pH Level

8.1

neutral = 7.0

Lead

0.001 mg/L

✓ Below action level

TDS

368.5 mg/L

Est. Daily Cost

£0.57

energy & soap waste

Source: DWI Data Portal · Updated 2026

hard~200–300 mg/LHard · est.

0–99

mg/L

Soft

100–149

mg/L

Slightly Hard

150–199

mg/L

Moderately Hard

200–300

mg/L

Hard

300+

mg/L

Very Hard

Appliance Damage Report

In Amesbury, your appliances are currently losing 33% efficiency due to mineral buildup.

ApplianceIn AmesburySoft Water CityEfficiency Loss
Kettle
5.7 yrs
8.5 yrs-33%
Washing Machine
8 yrs
12 yrs-33%
Water Heater
10 yrs
15 yrs-33%

Regional Water Comparison

How Amesbury compares to its nearest neighbours

CityHardnessClark°RiskSource
Amesbury, South West≈ 200–300 mg/L17.5°🟠 Hardmixed
Salisbury, South West≈ 300+ mg/L19°🔴 Very Hardmixed
Tidworth, South West≈ 150–200 mg/L13.7°🟡 Moderately Hardmixed
Devizes, South West≈ 150–200 mg/L16.9°🟡 Moderately Hardmixed
Andover, South East≈ 200–300 mg/L11.7°🟠 Hardmixed

National Benchmark

How Amesbury compares to the United Kingdom average

BenchmarkHardnessAppliance Risk
Amesbury≈ 200–300 mg/L🟠 High
United Kingdom National Avg177 mg/L🟡 Moderate
Skipton Top Rated7.1 mg/L🟢 None

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What Makes Amesbury's Water Unique?

Local geology and source profile

Source: MixedTDS: 368.5 mg/LpH: 8.1

Wessex Water draws its supply for Amesbury from the Salisbury Plain Chalk aquifer. Water is extracted from boreholes within this chalk formation and then conveyed to the Bourne Valley Water Treatment Works for processing before being distributed to residents. This chalk aquifer is a significant source for the region, providing a substantial volume of water that undergoes rigorous treatment to meet drinking standards.

The water's hardness is a direct result of its geological origins. It flows through the Cretaceous chalk of the Salisbury Plain, a porous rock rich in minerals. As water percolates through this chalk, it dissolves calcium and magnesium carbonates, leading to characteristically hard water. The Salisbury Plain Chalk formation is well-known for imparting these mineral qualities to the water it yields.

Homeowners in Amesbury may notice the effects of this hard water on their appliances and plumbing. Scale buildup is common in kettles, coffee makers, and especially water heaters, potentially reducing their efficiency and lifespan. Using soap and detergent can also be less effective, requiring more product for the same lather. Regular descaling of appliances and considering a water softener can mitigate these issues, protecting your home's systems and improving cleaning performance.

Geology & Source: Chalk aquifer; Cretaceous chalk produces hard water

Other South West Water Reports

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is Amesbury's water safe to drink?
Yes. Amesbury's water meets all DWI drinking water standards. The hardness is ≈ 200–300 mg/L (Hard), which is safe to drink. High hardness affects appliances and taste, but poses no health risk.
Do I need a water softener in Amesbury?
At ≈ 200–300 mg/L (Hard), Amesbury's water will cause significant limescale on kettles, washing machines, and water heaters. A water softener or descaler is strongly recommended to extend appliance lifespan and reduce energy bills by up to 33%.
How does Amesbury compare to the United Kingdom average?
The United Kingdom national average is 177 mg/L. Amesbury (≈ 200–300 mg/L) is 73 mg/L above the national average. The softest major city is Skipton at just 7.1 mg/L.