What Is Hard Water and What Impact Does It Have on Homes and Families?

Hard water is water containing dissolved calcium and magnesium minerals. It is measured in grains per gallon (gpg). About 85 percent of US homes have hard water, but only 30 percent use a water softener.

Water Hardness Scale

Signs You May Have Hard Water

• Dry, itchy skin and scalp — mineral deposits clog pores and strip natural oils
• Greasy, brittle hair — calcium buildup makes hair waxy, dull, and prone to breakage
• Spotted dishes and glassware — white mineral spots appear after washing
• Poor soap lather — hard water forms scum instead of lather
• Scratchy linens and towels — mineral buildup makes fabric stiff and rough
• Scale buildup on fixtures — white chalky deposits form around faucets and showerheads
• Decreased water pressure — scale narrows pipes over time
• Frequent appliance breakdowns — water heaters, dishwashers, and washing machines wear out faster

United States Water Hardness Map

The US water hardness map shows varying hardness levels across the country. With the exception of the Pacific Northwest, parts of the South, and the Northeast, most of the continental United States has hard water. Ancient seabeds left high concentrations of limestone across the hardest regions.

American Cities With Hard Water

• Austin, TX
• Chicago, IL
• Indianapolis, IN
• Jacksonville, FL
• Kansas City, MO
• Las Vegas, NV
• Minneapolis, MN
• Phoenix, AZ
• Salt Lake City, UT
• San Antonio, TX
• San Jose, CA
• Tampa, FL

Key Statistics

• 85% of US homes experience hard water
• 30% of people with hard water use a water softener
• Ancient seabeds once covered much of the US, leaving high concentrations of limestone

How to Fix Hard Water Problems

Water softeners are the simplest, most economical solution. EcoPure water softeners are designed, manufactured, and assembled in the United States. They are backed by 100 years of innovation, a comprehensive warranty, and third-party certifications. Demand-initiated systems save energy, water, and salt. A water softener is designed to last 10 or more years.

• NSF Certified
• Made in USA
• 10+ Year Lifespan
• 100-Year Heritage

EcoPure Water Softener Products

• Water Softener EPS110 — for 1 to 2 person households. Simple, reliable hard water reduction. URL: https://ecopure.com/product/water-softener-for-1-2-person-households-eps110/
• Water Softener EPS120 — for 3 to 4 person households. Consistent soft water for everyday bathing, laundry, and cleaning. URL: https://ecopure.com/product/water-softener-for-3-4-person-households-eps120/
• 2-in-1 Softener and Filtration System EPH130 — for up to 5 person households. Softens and filters water throughout your entire home. URL: https://ecopure.com/product/2-in-1-softener-filtration-system-for-up-to-5-person-households-eph130/
• Wi-Fi Water Softener EPW140 — for up to 6 person households. Powerful softening with smart monitoring and alerts. URL: https://ecopure.com/product/wi-fi-water-softener-for-up-to-6-person-households-epw140/

Related Resources

• How to Test for Hard Water at Home — https://ecopure.com/learning-center/test-for-hard-water-at-home/
• How a Water Softener Works — https://ecopure.com/learning-center/how-a-water-softener-works/
• How to Reduce PFAS in Drinking Water — https://ecopure.com/learning-center/how-to-remove-pfas-from-drinking-water/
• Get a Free Hard Water Test Strip — https://ecopure.com/learning-center/get-a-free-test-strip/