Calgarians Water Hardness Levels and Quality

Bow, Elbow River Water Sources

The water hardness in Calgary varies seasonally and by location. This is because the primary water sources for Calgary are the Bow and Elbow Rivers, and each of these rivers has different hardness levels. In the spring and summer, you may notice harder water as the Bow River has a higher hardness level than the Elbow River. On the other hand, during the fall and winter, the hardness of Calgary's water is slightly lower as the Elbow River is at a higher volume than the Bow River.

Water Treatment Plants

Regardless of the source, Calgary's water treatment plants work around the clock to produce safe, high-quality drinking water. These facilities use chemical and disinfection processes to remove any harmful contaminants from both the Bow and Elbow Rivers, providing Calgarians with access to dependable, potable water.

Water Hardness Levels

The hardness of Calgary's water is measured on a scale ranging from soft to very hard. Generally, Calgary's water is considered hard, with hardness levels varying between 7-11 grains per gallon (gpg) to higher than 11 gpg. This means that Calgarians may experience issues with scale buildup in their appliances and fixtures, especially if they don't use a softening system.

Solutions for Hard Water

To counter the effects of hard water, many Calgary homeowners install water softeners or salt-free water conditioners in their homes. These devices work by removing the minerals that cause hardness, resulting in softer water throughout the house. Water softeners are the most effective solution for eliminating hard water, but salt-free conditioners can be a more environmentally friendly option.

Conclusion

Understanding the hardness levels and sources of Calgary's water is essential for maintaining healthy plumbing and appliances. By employing effective water treatment solutions like softeners or conditioners, Calgarians can ensure the quality of their drinking water and protect their household systems from the effects of hard water.