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Water Hardness and Water Filtration in Commercial Kitchens

Water Hardness and Water Filtration in Commercial Kitchens

Water Hardness and Water Filtration in Commercial Kitchens

Water quality is a vital factor in the efficiency, performance and lifespan of commercial kitchen equipment. In areas with hard water (typically more southern areas of the UK), businesses often face operational and maintenance difficulties due to the high calcium and magnesium content.

Installing a water softening system filters these minerals, improving the effectiveness and performance of your appliances and prevents the buildup of limescale. 

Read on to discover the impact of hard water on your catering equipment.

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THE IMPACT OF HARD WATER

Hard water is defined by its high mineral content, namely calcium and magnesium. These minerals are safe for human consumption, yet commercially, they can be harmful to your appliances in a number of ways. Such as:

  • Limescale build up: The minerals in hard water cause limescale to accumulate, particularly in water heaters, dishwashers, coffee machines/kettles and steamers. Limescale hinders efficiency and increases energy consumption. Over time, a significant buildup can lead to expensive repairs/replacements.
  • Higher maintenance costs: The scale buildup damages appliances, so constant descaling is required; albeit more expensive.
  • Reduced equipment durability: This applies to boilers and dishwashers in particular, as the constant buildup of limescale reduces the effectiveness of the heating system. This is because the limescale acts as an insulator.
  • Reduced cleaning effectiveness: Soaps and detergents suffer as the minerals in hard water do not mix well, so cleaning products do not work as well; potentially leaving smudges on glasses and dishes. To customers, this may look as if your kitchen is not hygienic.
  • Health code violations: If left too long, the buildup of limescale can cause health code violations due to its ability to hold bacteria.

Installing a water softening system nullifies all these problems, as it prevents the buildup of limescale in your commercial appliances.

This map from Aquacure shows you the hard water areas in the UK.

THE BENEFITS OF WATER SOFTENING SYSTEMS

A water softener has many benefits, some including: 

  • Improved equipment efficiency: Limescale buildup is prevented, so your kitchen appliances can work at maximum efficiency. As a result, you will have lower utility bills and greater energy efficiency. 
  • Extended appliance lifespan: Expensive replacements of appliances are no longer required as the softening system reduces buildup of mineral deposits; in turn extending the lifespan of your appliances.
  • Cost savings: Reduced maintenance and improved efficiency means lower costs as you’re repairing less often. Also, you save money on cleaning as the cleaning products work better. This doubles as a way to reduce the environmental impact of buying and using chemicals. 
  • Enhanced cleaning and hygiene: The improved ability of dishwashers means cleaning dishes and glassware has never been better. Customers will appreciate your presentation of cleanliness in the kitchen. 
  • Consistent quality of food and beverages: The high mineral content of hard water tends to alter the flavour and quality of hot beverages. There are benefits and drawbacks to this. For example, the minerals bring out certain flavours, enriching a coffee; yet imbalances some other flavours. In tea, especially the more delicate ones such as green, the balance of flavours is vital. An imbalance can ruin one’s drinking experience.
  • Compliance with health standards: The removal of limescale prevents buildup of harmful bacteria; improving cleanliness and hygiene.

 

 

HOW TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT WATER SOFTENING SYSTEM

There are several factors that one must consider when choosing the right softening system:

  • Water hardness level: Check your area to make sure you will benefit from installing a softening system.
  • Appliance usage: Depending on the amount of water you use in your kitchen will affect how large of a softening system you need.
  • Maintenance requirements: You should look for a system that is easy to maintain and cost effective. 

THE KEY TAKEAWAYS

To conclude, any commercial kitchen that operates in a hard water area needs a water softening system, it’s an essential investment rather than an optional upgrade. Not only does it improve the overall efficiency and hygiene of your kitchen, but it also helps protect the longevity of your equipment and ensures consistent food and drink quality.

  • Save money and energy: By preventing limescale buildup, your equipment runs more efficiently, using less energy and reducing long-term maintenance and repair costs.

  • Protect your appliances: Water softeners extend the lifespan of costly equipment such as dishwashers, coffee machines, and steam ovens by keeping internal components free from mineral deposits.

  • Improve hygiene and consistency: Softened water enhances cleaning results, maintains higher hygiene standards, and ensures better-tasting hot drinks and food quality for customers.

Speak to JD Catering Equipment Solutions today about your your water softening and filtration needs for your business.
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