How do I know how hard my water is?

If you are on a municipal water system (receive a water bill), the water supplier can tell you the hardness level of the water they deliver to you.  If you are on a private well water supply you can get your water tested.  There are several ways to get the water tested for hardness.  Many hardness water tests kits are available at local pool supply stores, large hardware chains or online.  The cost of most kits range from $10.00 and up.  Most water testing laboratories offer water hardness tests for a fee. 
           
Many companies that sell water softeners or water treatment solutions offer water hardness test kits.  If you decide to use these types of water tests, be sure you understand the nature of the test, the water condition being measured, and the significance of your test results.  It is always recommended that a water test be performed before any water treatment is purchased.

How to interpret test results

Water hardness is often expressed as grains of hardness per gallon or water (gpg) or milligrams of hardness per liter of water (mg/L).  Once the test results are know you can calculate the hardness in the water.  The water hardness is relative to the amount of mineral content (calcium, magnesium) found in the water.  For example if you have 10 gpg, then you have 10 grains of hardness for every gallon of water. 

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