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Thornbury 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

438.9 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 Thornbury, your appliances are currently losing 33% efficiency due to mineral buildup.

ApplianceIn ThornburySoft 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 Thornbury compares to its nearest neighbours

CityHardnessClark°RiskSource
Thornbury, South West≈ 200–300 mg/L17.5°🟠 Hardmixed
Stoke Gifford, South West≈ 0–100 mg/L9.5°🟢 Softmixed
Mangotsfield, South West≈ 100–150 mg/L13.9°🟡 Slightly Hardmixed
Yate, South West≈ 100–150 mg/L16.3°🟡 Slightly Hardmixed
Kingswood, South West≈ 200–300 mg/L12.8°🟠 Hardmixed

National Benchmark

How Thornbury compares to the United Kingdom average

BenchmarkHardnessAppliance Risk
Thornbury≈ 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 Thornbury's Water Unique?

Local geology and source profile

Source: MixedTDS: 438.9 mg/LpH: 8.1

The water supply for Thornbury is managed by Bristol Water. While specific details for Thornbury are unavailable, the utility draws water from a blend of the River Avon and springs originating in the Mendip Hills. This water is then treated at the Purton Water Treatment Works before being distributed to customers. Official reports confirming the exact source or treatment specifics for Thornbury residents were not accessible through public searches.

Thornbury's water originates from a geological area characterized by limestone, specifically springs from the Mendip Hills. This type of bedrock, primarily limestone, is known to leach minerals like calcium and magnesium into the water as it flows through underground aquifers. The presence of these dissolved minerals is what defines water hardness. The specific geological formations in the wider South Gloucestershire supply zone contribute to this characteristic.

Homeowners in Thornbury might notice the effects of hard water on their appliances and plumbing. Mineral buildup, or scale, can form inside pipes and on heating elements in water heaters and dishwashers, potentially reducing their efficiency and lifespan. Soap and detergents may also lather less effectively in harder water. To combat scale, regular descaling of appliances is recommended. If you're experiencing significant issues, a water softener might be a worthwhile investment for your home.

Geology & Source: Limestone; limestone springs produce hard water

Other South West Water Reports

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is Thornbury's water safe to drink?
Yes. Thornbury'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 Thornbury?
At ≈ 200–300 mg/L (Hard), Thornbury'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 Thornbury compare to the United Kingdom average?
The United Kingdom national average is 177 mg/L. Thornbury (≈ 200–300 mg/L) is 73 mg/L above the national average. The softest major city is Skipton at just 7.1 mg/L.