Water hardness in Portimão
120 mg/L hard
Tap water in Portimão is hard: 120 mg/L (7 gpg · 6.7 °dH · 12 °fH).
Source: Águas do Algarve S.A. - Edital do 2.º trimestre 2026, Ponto de Entrega de Portimão (Alcantarilha Água Tratada e Chão das Donas) (2026) · data checked 2026-10-22
Portimão is supplied by its local water utility. Northern and central Portugal sit largely on granite and schist, which gives soft water, while limestone in the south and centre makes it harder. The reported hardness is 120.0 mg/L CaCO₃. Expect visible scale in kettles and showers; a scale-control device is worth considering.
Portuguese operators report "dureza total" in mg/L CaCO₃ to ERSAR.
Water data
| Total hardness | 120 mg/L |
|---|---|
| Utility | Águas do Algarve S.A. (bulk, Ponto de Entrega de Portimão); distribution EMARP |
How Portimão compares
- Tap water in Portimão is 44 % harder than the median of the 77 cities we track in Portugal (83 mg/L).
- By hardness it ranks 9 of 77 in Portugal (1 = hardest); 89 % of these cities have softer water.
- In 09 it is number 1 of 6 cities; the regional median is 92 mg/L.
- Nearest city with clearly softer water: Lagos, 13 km away (95 mg/L).
Ranking of the hardest and softest water in Portugal →
What it means at home
- Fast scale on taps, shower screens and kettle; white spots on glassware.
- Water heater: efficiency loss and element failures within years if unprotected.
- Dry skin and dull hair after showering are common.
- Softener recommended; jug or reverse osmosis for drinking.
How much salt will you use for softening?
Recommended, especially with a heater or boiler: scale cuts efficiency and shortens its life.
Descale a coffee machine or kettle about every 2 months (typical manufacturer guidance for this hardness).
Estimates for planning, not a quote. Check your appliance manual for exact settings.
Dishwasher setting in Portimão
| Brand | Setting for this water |
|---|---|
| Bosch | H01 |
| Miele | 7 °dH |
| AEG / Electrolux | 2 |
| Beko | 2nd |
| Hoover | S1 |
| LG | H1 |
From each brand's manual for the model family named in the source; your model may differ, so check its manual. All brands and how to change the setting →
FAQ
Is Portimão water hard or soft?
It is hard: 120 mg/L as CaCO₃ (7 gpg, 6.7 °dH). The usual bands are soft < 60, moderately hard 60–120, hard 120–180 and very hard > 180 mg/L.
Is tap water in Portimão safe to drink?
Hardness is not a health issue; it is about limescale, taste and appliances. Mains water must meet national drinking-water standards. Portuguese operators report "dureza total" in mg/L CaCO₃ to ERSAR.
How many grains per gallon is Portimão water?
7 gpg, equal to 6.7 °dH, 12 °fH or 120 mg/L calcium carbonate.
What dishwasher salt setting should I use in Portimão?
For 120 mg/L (6.7 °dH) check your manufacturer's table: level 4–5.
Do I need a water softener in Portimão?
Recommended if you have a water heater, boiler or tankless unit: it saves repairs and detergent.
Source
Source: Águas do Algarve S.A. - Edital do 2.º trimestre 2026, Ponto de Entrega de Portimão (Alcantarilha Água Tratada e Chão das Donas) (2026). Method: figure published by the water supplier. Águas do Algarve S.A. - Edital do 2.º trimestre 2026, Ponto de Entrega de Portimão (Alcantarilha Água Tratada e Chão das Donas) · Outdated figure? Tell us