water hardness phoenix az

Water Hardness in Phoenix, Arizona: What You Need to Know

Phoenix, Arizona, is known for its hard water. This means the water supply contains a significant amount of dissolved minerals, primarily calcium and magnesium. While hard water isn’t a health hazard, it can cause a number of inconveniences and problems for homeowners.

What is Water Hardness?

Water hardness is a measure of the dissolved minerals present in water, specifically calcium and magnesium. These minerals are picked up as water travels through rocks and soil. The higher the concentration of these minerals, the harder the water is considered. You can learn more on this topic from Wikipedia’s Hard Water page.

Phoenix’s Water Hardness Levels

Phoenix’s water hardness varies depending on the source. The city relies on both surface water from the Salt and Verde Rivers and groundwater. Generally, Phoenix water is considered moderately hard to very hard. The average hardness ranges from 12 to 18 grains per gallon (gpg), or 205 to 308 parts per million (ppm). Anything above 7 gpg (120 ppm) is considered hard. This is significantly harder than many other cities across the US.

The Effects of Hard Water in Phoenix

Hard water can cause a variety of issues in your home:

• Scale Buildup: Minerals precipitate out of hard water and form scale, a chalky deposit that can clog pipes, faucets, showerheads, and appliances like water heaters and dishwashers.
• Reduced Soap Effectiveness: Hard water interferes with soap’s ability to lather properly, meaning you need more soap to get things clean. This can lead to soap scum and residue on skin, hair, and clothes.
• Dry Skin and Hair: The minerals in hard water can dry out skin and hair, leading to itchiness and dullness.
• Stained Fixtures: Hard water can leave stains on sinks, tubs, and toilets.
• Increased Energy Costs: Scale buildup in water heaters reduces their efficiency, leading to higher energy bills.

Solutions for Hard Water in Phoenix

The most common solution for hard water is a water softener. Water softeners use a process called ion exchange to remove calcium and magnesium from the water. This involves passing the water through a resin bed that replaces the hardness minerals with sodium or potassium ions.

Other options include:

• Water Filters: Some water filters can reduce hardness, but they are typically less effective than water softeners.
• Descalers: These products can help remove existing scale buildup, but they don’t prevent it from forming in the first place.

FAQs About Water Hardness in Phoenix

Is Phoenix water safe to drink?

Yes, despite the hardness, Phoenix’s water meets all federal and state safety standards for drinking water.

Does hard water affect my plants?

Yes, some plants are sensitive to hard water. Acid-loving plants like azaleas and rhododendrons may suffer from nutrient deficiencies if watered with hard water.

How can I test my water hardness?

You can purchase a water hardness testing kit at most hardware stores or online. You can also contact a local water testing company for a professional analysis.

Will a water softener remove all minerals from my water?

No, a water softener primarily removes calcium and magnesium, the minerals responsible for hardness. It doesn’t remove all minerals, and some minerals are actually beneficial.

How often should I regenerate my water softener?

The regeneration frequency depends on the size of your water softener, your water usage, and the hardness of your water. Consult your water softener’s manual for specific recommendations.

Summary

Phoenix has hard water, which can cause problems like scale buildup and reduced soap effectiveness. While safe to drink, many homeowners choose to install water softeners to mitigate the negative effects of hard water on their homes and appliances.