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Risca Water Hardness & Quality Report (2026)

Water Hardness

slightly hard

~100–149 mg/L

Slightly Hard

estimated · not lab-verified

Source

reservoir

pH Level

7.3

neutral = 7.0

Lead

0.003 mg/L

✓ Below action level

TDS

172.1 mg/L

Est. Daily Cost

£0.28

energy & soap waste

Source: DWI Data Portal · Updated 2026

slightly hard~100–149 mg/LSlightly Hard · 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 Risca, your appliances are currently losing 17% efficiency due to mineral buildup.

ApplianceIn RiscaSoft Water CityEfficiency Loss
Kettle
7.1 yrs
8.5 yrs-16%
Washing Machine
10 yrs
12 yrs-17%
Water Heater
12.5 yrs
15 yrs-17%

Regional Water Comparison

How Risca compares to its nearest neighbours

CityHardnessClark°RiskSource
Risca, Wales≈ 100–149 mg/L8.8°🟡 Slightly Hardreservoir
Abercarn, Wales≈ 100–150 mg/L5.5°🟡 Slightly Hardreservoir
Cwmbran, Wales≈ 100–150 mg/L9.2°🟡 Slightly Hardreservoir
Newport, Wales≈ 150–200 mg/L3.2°🟡 Moderately Hardreservoir
Pontypool, Wales≈ 100–150 mg/L6.3°🟡 Slightly Hardreservoir

National Benchmark

How Risca compares to the United Kingdom average

BenchmarkHardnessAppliance Risk
Risca≈ 100–149 mg/L🟡 Low
United Kingdom National Avg177 mg/L🟡 Moderate
Skipton Top Rated7.1 mg/L🟢 None

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What Makes Risca's Water Unique?

Local geology and source profile

Source: ReservoirTDS: 172.1 mg/LpH: 7.3

Welsh Water serves Risca, Caerphilly, Wales, drawing water from various sources across South Wales. These include surface water from rivers and reservoirs, along with groundwater supplies. While specific treatment plants and reservoir sources for Risca weren't publicly detailed, the utility manages a complex network to ensure water reaches residents.

The Risca area is situated within the South Wales Valleys, characterized by Carboniferous Coal Measures formations from the Carboniferous period. This geology primarily consists of sandstones, shales, and coal seams, typical of the South Wales coalfield. The interaction of water with these rock types influences the mineral content, contributing to the region's classification as having slightly hard water on average.

Slightly hard water means you might observe a little scale forming in appliances like kettles and hot water systems over time. While not as severe as in genuinely hard water areas, some residents opt for water softeners to extend the life of their appliances and get better lather from soaps. Welsh Water guarantees its supply meets all UK regulatory standards, but for the most precise, up-to-date details on your local water quality, contacting Welsh Water directly is the best approach.

Geology & Source: Carboniferous Coal Measures; sandstones and shales result in slightly hard water

Other Wales Water Reports

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is Risca's water safe to drink?
Yes. Risca's water meets all DWI drinking water standards. The hardness is ≈ 100–149 mg/L (Slightly Hard), which is safe to drink. High hardness affects appliances and taste, but poses no health risk.
Do I need a water softener in Risca?
Risca's water is slightly hard at ≈ 100–149 mg/L. A water softener is generally not necessary, though a carbon filter can improve taste and remove any remaining chlorine.
How does Risca compare to the United Kingdom average?
The United Kingdom national average is 177 mg/L. Risca (≈ 100–149 mg/L) is 52 mg/L below the national average. The softest major city is Skipton at just 7.1 mg/L.