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Limescale in basically composed of the bonding of calcium, magnesium salts and bicarbonates and forms as a result of heating water where there is a presence of these minerals.When the water is heated, these dissolved minerals breakdown and become less soluble and precipitate out of the water to form solid limescale.In kettles, or any other boiling water heater, limescale can flake and cause the presence of chalky particles or flakes. These can either be white in colour or become a slight creamy colour due to the presence of other minerals and heavy metals which bond. Traces of copper from plumbing materials can turn it grey, green or blue while traces of rust from pipework can turn it orange, brown or black.Can limescale in kettles harm you?
It is commonly considered that hard water with the presence of calcium and magnesium biocarbonate minerals do not have a detrimental effect on health. However, since 1994 studies have shown that intake of soft water is preferable to hard water, since it is associated with a lower risk for recurrence of calcium stones in the kidneys.
Research also shows too little and too much calcium in ones' diet can lead to conditions which cause kidney stones, as well as too much sodium.
One aspect that is needs more study especially by organisations who suggest drinking softened water (from a salt based softener) to be considered ok and safe, or who suggest a specific level of calcium source from the drinking water (i.e. the World Heath Organisation), as opposed to food intake, should consider how the body metabolises minerals differently in water than in foods.
How to get rid of limescale in your kettle
