Water hardness varies by region, which can sometimes lead to discomfort if travellers consume the water in a new environment. According to the Hong Kong Water Supplies Department, the city’s treated tap water is categorised as soft water, containing trace minerals. Travellers from Hong Kong may occasionally experience discomfort when drinking tap water abroad, possibly due to difficulty adapting to hard water. But what exactly sets soft water and hard water apart?
How is water hardness or softness defined? What are the differences between soft water and hard water?
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), water hardness is determined by its mineral content, specifically calcium carbonate levels. The higher the calcium carbonate content per liter, the harder the water. Water hardness is classified into four levels:
- Soft Water: Less than 60 mg of calcium carbonate per liter.
- Moderately Hard Water: 60–120 mg of calcium carbonate per liter.
- Hard Water: 120–180 mg of calcium carbonate per liter.
- Very Hard Water: More than 180 mg of calcium carbonate per liter.
The Pros and Cons of Soft Water and Hard Water
Water flows through different environments on its way to your tap. It may pick up naturally occurring minerals such as magnesium and calcium, leading to a higher mineral content in the tap water, which is called “hard water.”
However, does this mean hard water is better than soft water?
Hard Water
Hard water is rich in minerals, which may contribute to the body’s daily mineral intake. Some people even prefer the taste of mineral-rich water, while others may find it too bitter as an ingredient, affecting the flavour of beverages or dishes. Yet, it is important to note that hard water does not equal commercially available “mineral water.”
Some research suggests that drinking water may reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases. However, the World Health Organization notes that more comprehensive studies are needed to establish a clear link. On the downside, long-term consumption of hard water has been associated with hair loss. Minerals in hard water can accumulate on the surface of the hair, blocking cuticles and damaging hair health over time. Additionally, the high calcium and magnesium content in hard water can cause scale to build up, potentially clogging pipes and reducing the efficiency or lifespan of water-dependent appliances like water heaters and washing machines.
According to the Centre for Health Protection, it’s also important to note that mineral water, which contains a high concentration of minerals, may not be suitable for infants. Excess minerals can exceed the nutritional needs of babies and are not recommended for preparing infant formula.
Soft Water
Compared to hard water, soft water contains fewer minerals, which means it is less likely to irritate the skin and does not lead to scale buildup in pipes or appliances, prolonging the lifespan of the household equipment and improving performance.
Some individuals in Hong Kong express concerns that soft water may not provide enough minerals. However, the human body primarily obtains essential nutrients through food, not water. As long as you maintain a balanced diet with a variety of natural foods, there’s no need to worry about insufficient mineral intake.
What is the hardness level of tap water in Hong Kong? Is it safe to drink?
Generally speaking, Hong Kong’s treated tap water is classified as soft water and may contain trace amounts of calcium and magnesium. After prolonged use, you may notice a thin white film, known as limescale, on the bottom of the kettle. This is simply a buildup of these trace minerals and does not affect water quality or health.
Why do people still use water filters despite treated tap water?
In theory, tap water treated by Hong Kong’s Water Supplies Department is safe to drink. However, water quality can be affected by external factors like storage tanks, internal plumbing, and supply systems. Rust, sediment, bacteria, and other contaminants may mix into the water during its journey to your tap. This can alter its taste and, in some cases, pose health risks. For these reasons, many people opt for water filters or filtration systems to ensure the purity and safety of their drinking water. These systems remove impurities, ensuring clean, high-quality water at home.
Professional water filtration systems in Hong Kong
Choosing the right water filtration and dispenser system depends on factors such as the water quality in your location and your household’s specific needs. Professional consultation services can help identify the best solution tailored to your requirements. A technical team can also provide regular maintenance to keep the filtration system performing at its best.
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or medical advice. For any health concerns or questions, please consult a qualified medical professional.