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Nelson Water Hardness & Quality Report (2026)

Water Hardness

soft

~0–99 mg/L

Soft

estimated · not lab-verified

Source

reservoir

pH Level

7.1

neutral = 7.0

Lead

0.004 mg/L

✓ Below action level

TDS

101.9 mg/L

Est. Daily Cost

£0.11

energy & soap waste

Source: DWI Data Portal · Updated 2026

soft~0–99 mg/LSoft · 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 Nelson, your appliances are currently losing 7% efficiency due to mineral buildup.

ApplianceIn NelsonSoft Water CityEfficiency Loss
Kettle
7.9 yrs
8.5 yrs-7%
Washing Machine
11.2 yrs
12 yrs-7%
Water Heater
14 yrs
15 yrs-7%

Regional Water Comparison

How Nelson compares to its nearest neighbours

CityHardnessClark°RiskSource
Nelson, Wales≈ 0–99 mg/L3.5°🟢 Softreservoir
Treharris, Wales≈ 100–150 mg/L7.6°🟡 Slightly Hardreservoir
Gelligaer, Wales≈ 0–100 mg/L8.3°🟢 Softreservoir
Bargoed, Wales≈ 100–150 mg/L8.1°🟡 Slightly Hardreservoir
Pontypridd, Wales≈ 100–150 mg/L6.3°🟡 Slightly Hardreservoir

National Benchmark

How Nelson compares to the United Kingdom average

BenchmarkHardnessAppliance Risk
Nelson≈ 0–99 mg/L🟢 None
United Kingdom National Avg177 mg/L🟡 Moderate
Skipton Top Rated7.1 mg/L🟢 None

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What Makes Nelson's Water Unique?

Local geology and source profile

Source: ReservoirTDS: 101.9 mg/LpH: 7.1

Dŵr Cymru Welsh Water supplies Nelson village. While specific details for this small settlement aren't publicly itemized, the utility draws from various watersheds across Wales, potentially including river systems like the Severn and Taff. Welsh Water serves millions across Wales, managing extensive operations that draw from numerous sources. The Llanishen Reservoir and Rhymney Valley catchment are mentioned in relation to Llanishen Water Treatment Works, which serves nearby areas and produces soft water.

The Nelson area lies within the South Wales Coalfield, a region geologically defined by Millstone Grinding and Coal Measures strata. This bedrock composition, prevalent in Caerphilly, typically results in water with moderate mineral content. While the precise aquifer and watershed feeding Nelson remain undisclosed in public records, the regional geology suggests a supply characterized by moderate mineralization, distinct from the soft water produced at Llanishen.

Understanding your water's characteristics is key for appliance care. If your supply is indeed moderately hard, you might notice scale buildup in kettles and water heaters, requiring periodic descaling. Soap and detergents may not lather as effectively as they would with softer water. Homeowners concerned about potential impacts on plumbing or who prefer softer water for laundry and bathing should consult Welsh Water's official water quality reports or contact the company directly for specific advice regarding their supply zone.

Geology & Source: South Wales Coalfield geology; Millstone Grit and Coal Measures strata yield moderately mineralized water

Other Wales Water Reports

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is Nelson's water safe to drink?
Yes. Nelson's water meets all DWI drinking water standards. The hardness is ≈ 0–99 mg/L (Soft), which is safe to drink. High hardness affects appliances and taste, but poses no health risk.
Do I need a water softener in Nelson?
Nelson's water is soft at ≈ 0–99 mg/L. A water softener is generally not necessary, though a carbon filter can improve taste and remove any remaining chlorine.
How does Nelson compare to the United Kingdom average?
The United Kingdom national average is 177 mg/L. Nelson (≈ 0–99 mg/L) is 127 mg/L below the national average. The softest major city is Skipton at just 7.1 mg/L.