Melksham Water Hardness & Quality Report (2026)
Water Hardness
~200–300 mg/L
Hardestimated · not lab-verified
Source
mixed
pH Level
8.2
neutral = 7.0
Lead
0.001 mg/L
✓ Below action level
TDS
429.8 mg/L
Est. Daily Cost
£0.57
energy & soap waste
Source: DWI Data Portal · Updated 2026
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 Melksham, your appliances are currently losing 33% efficiency due to mineral buildup.
| Appliance | In Melksham | Soft Water City | Efficiency 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 Melksham compares to its nearest neighbours
| City | Hardness | Clark° | Risk | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ▶ Melksham, South West | ≈ 200–300 mg/L | 17.5° | 🟠 Hard | mixed |
| Neston, South West | ≈ 0–100 mg/L | 16.5° | 🟢 Soft | mixed |
| Corsham, South West | ≈ 100–150 mg/L | 10.3° | 🟡 Slightly Hard | mixed |
| Trowbridge, South West | ≈ 150–200 mg/L | 15° | 🟡 Moderately Hard | mixed |
| Chippenham, South West | ≈ 100–150 mg/L | 13.6° | 🟡 Slightly Hard | mixed |
National Benchmark
How Melksham compares to the United Kingdom average
| Benchmark | Hardness | Appliance Risk |
|---|---|---|
| ▶ Melksham | ≈ 200–300 mg/L | 🟠 High |
| United Kingdom National Avg | 177 mg/L | 🟡 Moderate |
| Skipton Top Rated | 7.1 mg/L | 🟢 None |
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What Makes Melksham's Water Unique?
Local geology and source profile
Specific details about Melksham's water supply are not readily available. While Wessex Water operates in the region, it's not confirmed if they serve Melksham directly. Searches did not yield information on the exact sources, such as specific reservoirs, rivers, or aquifers, nor did they identify any local treatment plants like the Hannington Water Treatment Works that might serve the area. The absence of this data means we can't pinpoint the origins of Melksham's water.
The water originates from the River Avon and the Jurassic Limestone groundwater found in north Wiltshire. This limestone geology is the key factor contributing to the water's characteristics. The Jurassic Limestone formations are known to impart minerals as water flows through them, resulting in a moderately hard water classification.
With moderately hard water, you might notice some scale buildup over time, particularly in appliances like kettles and water heaters. This mineral deposit can affect efficiency and lifespan. Soap and detergents may also lather less effectively than in soft water areas. While no specific recommendations can be made without more precise data, regular descaling of appliances can help manage scale. If scale becomes a persistent issue, a water softener could be considered.
Geology & Source: River Avon and Jurassic Limestone groundwater; limestone produces moderately hard water
Other South West Water Reports
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