What is Hard Water Testing? 

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Hard Water Testing is a way to check the quality of drinking water, specifically looking for minerals that can affect how the water tastes and how it interacts with household products. The levels that are found in samples can also be used by water users to calibrate their Water Softener system.

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Why Test for Hard Water? 

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When water has high levels of certain minerals, mainly calcium and magnesium, it is known as hard water. While hard water isn’t harmful to health, it can cause problems like:

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Soap Issues: Hard water can make soap less effective, meaning you might need to use more soap or detergent for cleaning.

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Scaling: It leads to build-up in pipes and appliances like dishwashers and water heaters, which can eventually cause damage.

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Recent Water Test Details 

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Let’s look at our most recent example to understand how hard water testing works.

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• Where Was The Water Sample Taken: At 3025 E Spanish Trail Road in Moab, Utah.

• When Was The Sample Collected: On September 9, 2025.

• Who Tested The Water: It was sent to Chemtech-Ford Laboratories, a company that specializes in testing water.​

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What Were The Results? 

 

The testing found the following levels of hardness:

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• Total Hardness (as CaCO3): 137 milligrams per liter

  • This means the water is considered hard. While safe to drink, it may lead to scaling in your pipes and facets over time.

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• Calcium Level: 33.6 milligrams per liter

  • This is a normal amount. It is a harmless mineral at this level, but might affect the taste of your drinking water slightly.

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• Magnesium Level: 13.0 milligrams per liter

  • Like calcium, this mineral adds to the hardness. It is a harmless mineral at this level.​

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What Does This Mean for You? 

 

If your water is hard, here are some things you might consider:

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• Water Softeners:

  • These systems can help reduce the amount of calcium and magnesium in your water, making it easier to use.

  • For those of you calibrating your Water Softener System, the hardness of our drinking water is approximately 8.02 grains per gallon. 

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• Continued Testing:

  • It’s important to keep an eye on water quality. GWSSA is committed to regularly testing our culinary water, to ensure your water remains at a safe and at a pleasant level.