Is Seattle Water Hard or Soft?
Seattle water is considered to be soft. It typically registers very low on the hardness scale, usually between 1 and 3 grains per gallon (gpg), or 17-51 parts per million (ppm). This softness is due to the source of Seattle’s water: primarily snowmelt and rainwater from the Cascade Mountains.
Understanding Water Hardness
Water hardness refers to the concentration of dissolved minerals, specifically calcium and magnesium, in the water. The higher the concentration of these minerals, the harder the water. The Wikipedia page on hard water provides detailed information on the subject, explaining its causes, effects, and measurement. Water hardness is typically measured in grains per gallon (gpg) or parts per million (ppm).
Here’s a general guide to understanding water hardness levels:
- Soft: 0-3.5 gpg (0-60 ppm)
- Slightly Hard: 3.5-7 gpg (60-120 ppm)
- Moderately Hard: 7-10.5 gpg (120-180 ppm)
- Hard: 10.5-14 gpg (180-240 ppm)
- Very Hard: Over 14 gpg (over 240 ppm)
Why Seattle Water is Soft
Seattle’s primary water sources are the Cedar River and South Fork Tolt River watersheds. These rivers are fed by snowmelt and rainfall in the Cascade Mountains. Because rainwater and snowmelt are naturally low in minerals, the water that flows into these reservoirs is also very soft. The city takes steps to protect these watersheds to maintain the water’s high quality and naturally soft characteristics.
Benefits of Soft Water
Soft water offers several advantages. It lathers better with soap, meaning you use less soap for laundry, dishwashing, and bathing. It also reduces scale buildup in pipes, water heaters, and appliances, extending their lifespan and improving efficiency. Soft water can also leave your skin and hair feeling softer and less dry.
Potential Drawbacks of Soft Water
While soft water generally has many benefits, some individuals may prefer the taste of slightly harder water. Minerals like calcium and magnesium can contribute to the taste of water, and some people find that soft water tastes “flat” in comparison. However, the vast majority of residents find Seattle’s soft water to be perfectly acceptable.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Seattle tap water safe to drink?
Yes, Seattle tap water is considered safe to drink. The city’s Public Utilities department regularly tests and treats the water to ensure it meets or exceeds all federal and state safety standards.
Does Seattle add fluoride to its water?
Yes, Seattle adds fluoride to its water to help prevent tooth decay.
How can I test my water hardness in Seattle?
You can purchase a water hardness testing kit from most hardware stores or online retailers. You can also contact Seattle Public Utilities for information on water quality testing.
Does soft water corrode pipes?
Extremely soft water can be slightly corrosive to certain types of pipes (like lead pipes, which are very rare today). However, Seattle’s water is not excessively soft and does not pose a significant corrosion risk to modern plumbing systems.
Is it necessary to use a water softener in Seattle?
No, it is generally not necessary to use a water softener in Seattle since the water is already naturally soft. In fact, adding a water softener could make the water too soft, potentially leading to minor corrosion issues.
Summary
Seattle enjoys naturally soft water due to its mountainous water sources. This soft water offers numerous benefits, including better soap lathering, reduced scale buildup, and softer skin and hair. While some may prefer the taste of slightly harder water, the softness of Seattle’s water is generally considered a desirable quality.
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