Milton Keynes is one of the worst areas in the UK for heavy amounts of limescale in water, a survey has revealed

That is equivalent to more than three times the weight of Nelson’s Column, according to new analysis from a water softener company.

Experts from Harvey Water Softeners say limescale clogs up heating systems and significantly reduces their efficiency over time.

Around 13 million homes in the UK are in hard water regions, but Milton Keynes features in the top twenty of all towns and cities when based on the milligrams of calcium carbonate per litre levels for each area.

A Harvey's spokesman said: "Limescale deposits within a heating system can cause blockages in pipework and boilers, with estimates suggesting that a yearly build-up of 1.6mm of limescale within a heating system is enough to reduce your heating efficiency by 12 per cent. This can increase yearly gas costs by more than £160."

He said water softeners limit the accumulation of scale and scum in essential appliances, with recent research finding that softened water preserves the lifespan of boilers by maintaining 100 percent efficiency over a simulated 15-year life span.

And, he said, soft water also combines more effectively with soap and washing detergents to create a proper lather and leads to healthier hair and smoother skin.

But drinking hard water is not bad for you. In fact, it may actually help fulfill dietary needs of essential minerals such as calcium and magnesium, say some experts.