Question: How is water hardness measured?
Answer: Water hardness is typically measured in grains per gallon (gpg). In the water treatment industry, hardness levels are generally classified as:
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0–1 gpg: Soft
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1–3 gpg: Slightly hard
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3–7 gpg: Moderately hard
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7–10 gpg: Hard
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10+ gpg: Very hard
Many homes in our region fall into the hard or very hard range.
Question: Is hard water harmful to my health?
Answer: Hard water is not considered a health concern. However, it can create problems throughout your home by causing mineral buildup on fixtures, reducing soap effectiveness, and shortening the lifespan of appliances.
Question: How does a water softener help?
Answer: A water softener reduces calcium and magnesium levels, helping:
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Protect plumbing and appliances
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Improve soap and detergent performance
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Reduce scale buildup
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Improve water feel for bathing and cleaning
Water softening can help reduce maintenance costs and improve overall water usability in the home.
Question: How can I find out my home’s exact water hardness?
Answer: General water reports provide averages, but actual hardness can vary from home to home. Tri County Water offers a free in-home water test to measure your specific hardness level and identify other common water concerns.
