What does 'water hardness' refer to?

Water hardness refers to the amount of minerals, specifically calcium and magnesium ions, that are present in the water. These minerals can originate from various natural sources such as limestone, chalk, and gypsum as water passes over or through these materials.

Hard water is characterized by its high mineral content, which can affect various aspects of water use, particularly in food service and hospitality settings. For example, hard water can impact the effectiveness of soaps and detergents in cleaning processes, as well as lead to the buildup of scale in appliances and plumbing systems.

Understanding water hardness is particularly important in food establishments to ensure that cleaning and sanitizing processes maintain their effectiveness, thereby supporting food safety and overall operational efficiency.