How to Check for Limescale in Your Pipes

Limescale is one of the most common hidden issues in plumbing systems — and one of the most damaging over time. Caused by hard water, it silently builds up inside pipes, boilers, and taps, reducing water flow, increasing energy bills, and shortening the lifespan of your appliances.

At Pleasant Plumbers, we help homeowners and property managers across London identify and remove limescale before it turns into a costly problem. If you're wondering whether limescale is affecting your home or business, here’s how to check your system.

Limescale is a chalky white residue made primarily of calcium carbonate. It forms when hard water (rich in minerals) is heated or left to evaporate. In pipes, this buildup sticks to the inner walls and restricts flow, similar to how cholesterol clogs arteries.

• Reduced Water Pressure – Limescale can narrow pipework, especially in older copper pipes or shower hoses.
• Noisy Plumbing – Whistling, banging, or gurgling could indicate mineral restrictions.
• Slow-Filling Appliances – Washing machines and dishwashers that take longer to fill.
• White Stains on Fixtures – Limescale at taps, showerheads, or around boiler outlets.
• Inconsistent Hot Water – Heat exchanger in boilers may be clogged.
• Rising Energy Bills – Limescale reduces boiler efficiency by making heat transfer harder.
• Kettles with Residue – A quick indicator of hard water in your area.

1. Inspect Taps and Showerheads

Remove the heads and look inside for white or crusty deposits. Clean them with vinegar to test how quickly it dissolves.

2. Monitor Water Flow

Compare the flow rate at taps, showers, and appliances. If one is weaker, the connecting pipe may be scaled.

3. Use a Water Hardness Test Kit

These affordable kits show how hard your water is — London typically rates as very hard. Higher hardness = more limescale risk.

4. Thermal Imaging (Advanced)

A heating engineer can use thermal imaging to detect cold spots caused by reduced flow in radiators or pipes.

5. Check Your Boiler

An experienced plumber can assess internal components and the heat exchanger for limescale build-up. If left untreated, this can result in boiler breakdown.

• Install a Magnetic or Electrolytic Scale Reducer
• Use Water Softeners for high-demand or large systems
• Fit a Limescale Filter on Incoming Mains
• Add Scale Inhibitors to Your Heating System
• Book a Powerflush if sludge and limescale are combined

If you suspect limescale is damaging your plumbing system, we can help. We offer system assessments, boiler inspections, and long-term prevention solutions across London.

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📧 Email [email protected]
🌐 Visit pleasantplumbers.com

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