How hard is Pahrump water?
Hardness varies between wells and water systems, but Pahrump water is typically in the hard to very hard range. A simple test tells you your actual level. Water hardness is usually measured in milligrams per liter (mg/L) or grains per gallon (gpg).
| Classification | mg/L | Grains per gallon |
|---|---|---|
| Soft | 0 to 60 | 0 to 3.5 |
| Moderately hard | 61 to 120 | 3.5 to 7 |
| Hard | 121 to 180 | 7 to 10.5 |
| Very hard | Over 180 | Over 10.5 |
What hard water does to plumbing
- Tank water heaters: sediment builds up at the bottom, causing popping noises and shortening the heater's life.
- Tankless water heaters: scale in the heat exchanger causes error codes and reduced flow.
- Faucets and showerheads: scale wears cartridges and clogs aerators, causing drips and weak flow.
- Toilets: mineral buildup affects fill valves and flappers, causing running toilets.
- Appliances: dishwashers, washing machines, and ice makers wear out faster.
Signs of hard water
- White crust on faucets and showerheads
- Spots on dishes and glass shower doors
- Soap that doesn't lather well
- A water heater that pops or rumbles
What you can do
- Test your water to know your hardness level
- Install a water softener for the strongest protection, or compare softeners and salt-free conditioners
- Flush tank water heaters regularly, and descale tankless units
- Clean faucet aerators and showerheads
Well water and utility water
Both private wells and utility systems in Pahrump draw from groundwater, so both are usually hard. Some wells also carry sediment or other minerals, which can affect how a softener should be set up.