denver hard water

Denver’s Hard Water: What You Need to Know

Denver’s water supply is considered moderately hard, meaning it contains dissolved minerals like calcium and magnesium. While not as severe as some areas, this hardness can still impact your home and daily life. Knowing the specifics of Denver’s water hardness allows residents to make informed decisions about water softening and filtration.

What is Hard Water?

Hard water is defined by its high mineral content, primarily calcium and magnesium. Rainwater, being naturally soft, picks up these minerals as it filters through soil and rocks. The concentration of these minerals determines the degree of hardness. You can learn more about hard water on Wikipedia.

Denver’s Water Hardness Level

Denver Water provides water to approximately 1.5 million people in the city and surrounding suburbs. Denver’s water hardness typically ranges from 5 to 8 grains per gallon (gpg), which is equivalent to 85 to 137 parts per million (ppm). This falls into the “moderately hard” category. The source of Denver’s water, primarily snowmelt from the Rocky Mountains, contributes to this mineral content.

How Hard Water Affects Your Home

Hard water can have several noticeable effects in your home:

• Scale buildup: Mineral deposits can accumulate in pipes, faucets, showerheads, and appliances like water heaters, reducing efficiency and lifespan.
• Soap scum: Hard water interferes with soap’s ability to lather, leaving a sticky residue on skin, hair, and surfaces.
• Dull laundry: Clothes may appear duller and feel rougher after washing in hard water.
• Spotty dishes: Dishes and glassware can have water spots after washing.

Addressing Hard Water in Denver

While Denver’s water hardness is not extreme, residents may choose to mitigate its effects. Options include:

• Water softeners: These systems remove calcium and magnesium through ion exchange, replacing them with sodium or potassium.
• Water filters: Whole-house or point-of-use filters can reduce mineral content and improve water taste and quality.
• Using detergents designed for hard water: These detergents contain additives that help them lather effectively in hard water.

FAQs about Denver Hard Water

Is Denver water safe to drink?

Yes, Denver’s drinking water meets all federal and state safety standards, regardless of its hardness.

How can I test my water hardness in Denver?

You can purchase a home water testing kit or contact a local water testing company.

Will a water softener improve my skin and hair?

Many people find that soft water reduces dryness and irritation, leading to softer skin and more manageable hair.

Are water softeners bad for the environment?

Some concerns exist regarding the sodium discharged by water softeners. Salt-free water conditioners are a newer technology which doesn’t use salt and may be an alternative option.

Do I need a water softener in Denver?

Whether you need a water softener depends on your personal preferences and the severity of the hard water effects you experience.

Summary

Denver’s water is moderately hard, which can lead to scale buildup, soap scum, and other issues. While Denver’s water is safe to drink, residents can choose to install water softeners or filters to mitigate the effects of hard water based on their individual needs and preferences.