Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between water filtering and water softening?

Water filtration removes unwanted substances from water—such as chlorine, sediment, bad tastes and odours, and sometimes heavy metals or bacteria—making water cleaner and better for drinking and cooking. Water softening, on the other hand, does not clean the water but removes hard minerals like calcium and magnesium that cause limescale, protecting pipes, boilers, appliances, and improving how soap works on skin, hair, laundry, and many other household items. In simple terms, filters improve water quality and taste, while softeners protect your home and improve everyday water use, which is why many homes or businesses benefit from using both together.

Does a whole-house water softening system affect the water pressure in the house?

A softener does not create pressure and does not normally reduce it either. Modern domestic softeners are designed to deliver enough water in 3–4 bedroom UK houses at a reasonably good flow rate. The system configuration design, however, needs to be worked out to match each household's needs. So if the flow drops during simultaneous use, it’s usually due to:

• Boiler capacity limits

• Small pipework

• Mains supply variability
  — not the softener.

How much does it cost?

Our pricing varies depending on several factors such as types of water treatment systems, daily water consumption in the premises, input water pressure, piping system configuration in the premises, etc. We offer a variety of options to fit your needs and budget. Please contact us via info@rawater.co.uk for more information.

What is the list of items directly affected by hard water in "Residential Premises (homes)"?

Heating & Hot Water Systems

• Boilers (combi, system, conventional)

• Hot water cylinders

• Heat exchangers

• Immersion heaters

• Radiators (internal scaling, efficiency loss)

• Underfloor heating pipes

Plumbing & Fixtures

• Water pipes (especially hot-water pipes)

• Showerheads

• Taps and mixers

• Valves and solenoids

• Toilet cistern mechanisms

Household Appliances

• Washing machines

• Dishwashers

• Tumble dryers (steam-assisted models)

• Electric kettles

• Coffee machines (bean-to-cup, pod)

• Steam irons

• Humidifiers and air purifiers

• Instant hot-water taps

Bathrooms & Kitchens (Surfaces & Fittings)

• Shower screens and glass panels

• Bath tubs

• Sinks and basins

• Tiles and grout

• Chrome and stainless-steel finishes

• Silicone seals

Consumables & Laundry

• Soap and body wash effectiveness

• Shampoo and conditioner performance

• Laundry detergent usage

• Fabric softness and colour retention

• Towels and bedding lifespan

What is the list of items directly affected by hard water in "Commercial Premises"?

Hospitality & Food Service

• Commercial dishwashers

• Glass washers

• Ice machines

• Coffee machines and espresso systems

• Steam ovens

• Water boilers and urns

• Beverage dispensing systems

Hotels, Gyms & Leisure

• Showers and spa equipment

• Sauna and steam room generators

• Swimming pool heat exchangers

• Laundry systems (commercial washers/dryers)

• Towel and linen quality

Healthcare & Care Facilities

• Sterilisation equipment

• Autoclaves

• Dialysis water pre-treatment systems

• Washroom fixtures

• Laundry systems

Industrial & Technical Equipment

• Heat exchangers

• Cooling towers

• Chillers

• Process water systems

• Steam boilers

• Pressure washers

Commercial Laundries

• Industrial washing machines

• Water heaters

• Detergent dosing systems

• Fabric finishing equipment