Benefits & Drawbacks of Hard Water (WJEC GCSE Chemistry: Combined Science)

• We have already discussed some of the drawbacks of hard water but there are advantages as well 
• The calcium compounds dissolved in hard water help to strengthen teeth and bones 
• They also help prevent heart and cardiovascular disease
• Some people prefer the taste of hard water and some brewers prefer it for brewing beer 

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The calcium ions in hard water help develop and maintain health bones and teeth

• On the other hand, hard water forms scale within appliances such as kettles which slows down the rate of heat transfer making them less efficient 
• Scale also causes pipes to 'fur up' and become completely blocked 
• It is harder to form a lather with hard water which results in more soap being wasted and can increase costs 
• Hard water forms scum with soap which has an unsightly appearance 

Summary of Advantages & Disadvantages 

Advantages	Disadvantages
Strengthens teeth and bones Helps reduce heart disease Some people prefer the flavour Some believe it is better for brewing beer	Difficult to form a lather with soap Forms a scum with soap  Forms scale within appliances making them less efficient Can cause hot water pipes to become blocked