Hard Water Warning: Several Counties at Risk of Boiler Damage Costing Thousands

Hardness can change dramatically from one area to the next, even within the same county," Sean says. "Cork is a perfect example, harder inland, softer near the coast. That's why I always tell people not to assume. You can check a geological map, but the only way to know for certain is to have your own supply checked."

When hard water is heated, the minerals in it come out of solution and settle as limescale on the inside of your boiler, your heating element and your pipework," Sean says. "That scale acts like a layer of insulation. Your boiler then has to work harder and burn more energy to heat your home to the same temperature. In effect, you end up paying to heat limescale instead of water."

That's money going straight out the flue," Sean says. "And it doesn't stop at your heating bill. Scale narrows your pipes, makes your radiators noisy, reduces your water flow and shortens the life of your whole system. A boiler that should last 12 to 15 years can fail years early, and at €3,000 or more for a replacement, that's one of the most expensive repair bills a homeowner will ever face."

If you're in a hard water area, the warning signs are usually there already. A furry kettle, white crust around your taps, cloudy glasses from the dishwasher and soap that won't lather properly. Those are the same minerals that are quietly coating the inside of your boiler."

A boiler that seems to be on its last legs is sometimes just choked with scale," Sean says. "The most important thing is to address the warning signs. A quick check now can save you a very big bill later, especially heading into the colder months."