The water in many parts of Ireland contain mineral salts, predominantly calcium and magnesium, constitute the hardness which causes scale damage to water systems, boilers, electric household appliances valves and taps. As water moves through soil and rock, it dissolves very small amounts of minerals and holds them in solution.

The degree of hardness becomes greater as the calcium and magnesium content increases and is related to the concentration of multivalent cat ions dissolved in the water. If the water hardness is higher than 170.1 mg/l, it is recommended that a water softener is installed.

Water softening units can be permanently installed into the plumbing system to continuously remove calcium and magnesium. Water softeners operate on the ion exchange process. The ion exchange process takes place as hard water passes through the softening material. . Over time the water softener will eradicate scale from pipe work. In addition to considerable scale-related cost and energy savings it is estimated that savings of up to 50% in the amount of washing powder, soap, shampoo, conditioner and cleaning products used. The build up of scale makes pipes and plumbing work harder and less efficient.