Why is tap water so hard in Copenhagen?
Lime in the kettle and what is changing
Short answer
Tap water in the Copenhagen area is hard because the groundwater picks up lime from the soil, giving a natural hardness of 18 to over 30 °dH. HOFOR is lowering this to 10–12 °dH, which counts as medium-hard water. The change comes gradually as each regional waterworks is upgraded, and it reaches about 1 million residents in eight municipalities. Softening adds about 4 kr. per m³ to the water price.
Why
- Hard water leaves limescale in kettles, showers and taps.
- Hard water is still fine to drink.
- Softer water means less descaling and less soap.
Details
Water is not softened below 8 °dH, because very soft water can damage metal pipes.
Tip
If you have a private water softener, have it adjusted when softer water reaches your area, so salt levels stay within the rules.
What may differ
Areas fed by several waterworks can have varying hardness until all plants are upgraded.
Common misconception
Some think the white limescale means the water is unsafe.
What actually happens
Lime is a natural mineral, and the softening method is approved as safe, also for pregnant women.
People also ask
- Is Copenhagen tap water safe to drink?
- Where does tap water in Denmark come from?
- Does softened water taste different?
Sources
- HOFOR: Softer waterChecked at:
- HOFOR: Questions and answers about soft waterChecked at:
This answer is for reference only. Opening hours, prices and services change, so check the official sources before you go.
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