What is Hard Water and how do I treat it?
Hard water is water that contains high levels of dissolved minerals, mainly calcium and magnesium. The more minerals in the water, the ‘harder’ it is.
Water becomes hard when it flows through or over mineral-rich rock (like limestone), dissolving minerals into the water supply.
In New Zealand, water hardness varies significantly by region due to geological differences and water sources.
A Kinetico water softener will remove hardness (calcium and magnesium), and it will also remove iron and manganese ,which are equally as problematic and common in certain parts of New Zealand.
How Do I Know if I Have Hard Water?
- White, chalky limescale buildup on taps, kettles, and appliances.
- Scaling on cutlery and glassware.
- Scaling in showers (especially on glass doors) and bathtubs.
- Low soap lather – shampoo and soap don’t foam easily.
- Clothes feel stiff or dull after washing.
- Clogged pipes or reduced water pressure, especially shower heads.
- Appliances like kettles and dishwashers wear out faster.
For confirmation, you can talk to your nearest Davey Master Dealer about having your water tested.
Why Is Hard Water a Problem?
While not dangerous, hard water causes practical issues:
- Limescale buildup in appliances reduces efficiency and lifespan.
- Increases energy bills – heating elements become coated with scale.
- Makes cleaning more difficult – more soap/detergent needed.
- Plumbing can get clogged or damaged over time.
Can affect skin and hair – may feel dry or irritated after showering.
Why are Iron and Manganese in your water a problem?
Iron and Manganese in your water can cause a range of issues, including:
Stains on fixtures and laundry
• Iron: Reddish-brown, orange, or rust-coloured stains on sinks, tubs, toilets, and laundry.
• Manganese: Black, dark brown, or purple stains (often mistaken for mould or dirt).
• These stains are difficult to remove and reappear quickly after cleaning.
Discolored Water
• Water may appear yellow, red, brown, or black when first run.
• Colour can settle after standing, or it may only show up in hot water.
Metallic Taste or Smell
• A metallic, bitter, or rusty taste in drinking water, tea, or coffee.
• Iron can make beverages taste “off,” while manganese can cause an earthy or musty odour.
Appliance and Plumbing Problems
• Build-up of brown or black deposits inside dishwashers, washing machines, or water heaters.
• Can shorten appliance lifespan and reduce water heater efficiency.
You can either get a lab water test (via a Davey Master Dealer) or use a home water test kit to ascertain levels of Iron or Manganese:
Iron (Fe)
Above 0.3 mg/LIron (Fe)
Above 0.3 mg/L causes noticeable staining and taste
Manganese (Mn)
Above 0.05 mg/LManganese (Mn)
Above 0.05 mg/L causes dark staining and taste issues
How Do I remove iron, manganese and hardness (calcium and magnesium) from my water at home?
If you’re experiencing any of the above issues, a Microlene Kinetico water softener will get you sorted.
A Kinetico water softener works by using a non-electric, twin-tank system to remove hardness from your water. It relies on kinetic energy (water flow) rather than electricity, which sets it apart from many traditional softeners. The twin-tank design means you get continuous soft water.
