Noticed chalky bits in your kettle, or soap that just won’t foam no matter how much you try? You’re probably dealing with hard water, and you’re not alone. It’s a common issue across many parts of Australia, quietly affecting everything from your skin and hair to your appliances and energy bills.

Hard water might not seem like a big deal, but over time, it can cause all sorts of headaches like stiff laundry, clogged pipes, and appliances that give up before their time. So what exactly is hard water, why does it matter, and what you can actually do about it?

What Is Hard Water, Exactly?

Hard water simply means your tap water contains high levels of dissolved minerals. These minerals can build up in your home’s plumbing, appliances, and on your skin.

In Australia, water hardness is usually measured in milligrams per litre (mg/L) of calcium carbonate. According to the Australian Water Drinking Guidelines, water is considered “hard” when it contains more than 200 mg/L of calcium carbonate.

How to Check If You Live in a Hard Water Area in Australia

While there’s no government-issued map for hard water in Australia, some unofficial maps (like the one below) give a pretty good picture of where hard water is more common across the country.

Not sure about your local supply? Your water provider or council publishes water quality reports online. Or, you can always grab a home water hardness test kit for a quick DIY check.

Hard Water Signs At Home

Not keen on water reports or testing kits? Here are a few tell-tale signs that hard water might be running through your home:

1. Limescale Buildup

White, chalky residue in kettles, coffee machines, and around tap fittings? That’s limescale—left behind by mineral-heavy water.

2. Soap Scum and Poor Lather

Hard water reacts with soap to form soap scum—those stubborn streaks on shower screens or sinks. You’ll also notice shampoo and soap don’t lather as well.

3. Faded Laundry

Clothes washed in hard water often feel stiff and can fade faster than usual—especially delicate or dark fabrics.

4. Blocked Pipes or Reduced Water Flow

Over time, mineral deposits can collect inside pipes which can eventually reduce water pressure at home.

Effects of Hard Water on Your Health and Home

While the minerals in hard water may offer some nutritional value, the real issues show up around your home and skin:

Appliance Efficiency

Limescale forces appliances like kettles, dishwashers and washing machines to work harder, which shortens their lifespan.

Higher Bills

Reduced efficiency means more energy used—which can sneak up on your electricity bill.

Plumbing Woes

Mineral buildup in pipes can restrict water flow, lead to damage, and cost a small fortune to fix.

Dry Skin and Hair

Minerals in hard water can strip your skin’s natural oils, leaving it dry and irritated. Hair can feel coarse, brittle, or harder to manage.

Skin Sensitivities

If you’ve got eczema, psoriasis or other skin concerns, hard water could make symptoms worse. In fact, studies found a possible link between hard water exposure and increased eczema risk in children.

Why Filtered Water Is a Game-Changer in Hard Water Areas

You may not be able to control your town’s water source—but you can take charge of what comes out of your tap.

Does Filtration Remove Hardness?

Not all filters are built to tackle hard water. Basic jug or tap filters might remove chlorine and odours but won’t do much for those stubborn minerals.

To truly soften water, you’ll want a multi-stage filter or reverse osmosis (RO) system—these are designed to effectively reduce total dissolved solids (TDS), including those hard water minerals.

Earths Water Filters for Hard Water

Whether you’re battling limescale, itchy skin, or just want your kettle to live a little longer, Earths Water has you covered with water filters that work hard—and look good doing it.

Benchtop Water Filters

Glass Benchtop Filter

A sleek, sustainable system that removes chlorine, heavy metals, and limescale-causing minerals. Choose from natural bamboo or limited-edition acacia timber bases—low-tox and built to last.

Eco Benchtop Filter

Gravity-powered and no plumbing required. Made from non-toxic, plastic-free materials, this eco benchtop filter helps reduce mineral content while looking effortlessly stylish in any kitchen.

Jugs and Carafes

Water Filter Jug

An easy choice for everyday hydration. Filters chlorine, odours, and some hard water minerals—great for small households or renters.

Glass Carafe

Clean water, served elegantly. Our minimalist glass carafe filters out impurities while adding a little luxury to your dinner table or office desk.

Big Capacity Systems

Under Sink RO Water Filter

A 4-stage purification RO powerhouse that removes up to 99% of nasties—perfect for serious hard water problems. Tucks away neatly under the sink for soft, clean water on tap.

Water Ionizer

Filters and ionises your water, reducing mineral content while letting you choose your ideal pH. A great all-rounder for drinking, cooking, brewing your perfect cup of tea, and even for cleaning purposes.

For Hair and Skin

Premium Shower Filter

If your skin or scalp is suffering, our shower filter reduces chlorine, sediment, and mineral buildup—so you can rinse without the dryness, frizz, or flaky aftermath.

Can Softened Water Really Make a Difference?

Short answer? Absolutely. Here’s what Earths Water customers in hard water zones often report:

  • Softer skin and hair after showering

  • Cleaner-tasting water (and tea that actually tastes like tea)

  • Longer-lasting appliances with less limescale buildup

  • Using less shampoo, soap, and detergent

Plus, filtered water often just feels better—no strange aftertastes, no lingering odours. Just clean, low-tox hydration, every time.

Water That Works for You

Living in a hard water area in Australia doesn’t mean you have to settle for crusty kettles or flaky skin. With the right water filter, you can enjoy cleaner, softer water every day without the stress and the hassle.

At Earths Water, we’re here to make clean, filtered water simple, stylish, and part of your everyday life, minus the fuss and the limescales. Explore our full range of water filters for hard water and find the one that’s perfect for your home and your loved ones.