When naturally soft rainwater passes through layers of chalk or limestone rock, it absorbs calcium and magnesium, and becomes 'hard'. The more of these minerals that are absorbed, the harder the water becomes. Over 60% of Britain suffer from hard water problems. Although water is treated before it reaches our taps, the hard minerals remain causing scale and scum. You, your family and your home are suffering from the effects of hard water every minute of the day. Some symptoms are easily seen - others are not - but they all cost you money. Scale is hard on your pocket. If you live in a hard water area, you'll soon know - furred up appliances like the kettle above are just one sign!