The Truth About Hard Water

Hard water contains high levels of calcium and magnesium — minerals that:

  • Shorten appliance life by causing damaging scale buildup.

  • Make cleaning harder by leaving spots, streaks, and soap scum.

  • Reduce efficiency in water heaters, costing you money.

In 85% of Canadian homes, hard water is a daily reality.

How Hard Is Your Water?

Hardness is measured in grains per gallon (gpg):

  • Soft: Less than 1 gpg - Lucky you 😁

  • Slightly Hard: 1 - 3.5 gpg Not bad, worth considering 🤔

  • Moderately Hard: 3.5 - 7 gpg Good idea, let’s solve this 🫡

  • Hard: Over 7 - 10 gpg Should address, spend to save 🤨

  • Very Hard: Over 10 gpg That’s unfortunate 😐

Canadian examples:

  • Toronto: 6 - 7 gpg (moderately hard)

  • Calgary, Red Deer, Edmonton: 9 - 16 gpg (hard)

  • Guelph/Kitchener/Waterloo: 17 - 56 gpg (extremely hard)

  • Okanagan: 6.4 -15.7 (moderate to very hard)

The Science-Backed Proof

A major study by Battelle Memorial Institute, the world’s largest non-profit research and development organization, revealed the real cost of hard water.

Gas Water Heaters

  • Soft water: Maintained full factory efficiency for 15 years.

  • Hard water: Lost up to 24% efficiency, increasing energy costs.

  • Every 5 gpg = 4% efficiency loss + 4% higher energy bills.

Electric Water Heaters

  • Hard water caused 0.4 lbs of scale buildup per year.

  • Scale shortens heating element life and raises operating temperature.

Tankless Water Heaters

  • Soft water: Full efficiency for 15 years.

  • Hard water: Failed completely after only 1.6 years due to scale clogging.

Showerheads & Fixtures

  • Soft water: Full flow and brilliant luster maintained.

  • Hard water: Lost 75% flow in 18 months and looked dull.

The Takeaway

Switching to soft water isn’t just about comfort — it’s about:

  • Saving money on energy and repairs.

  • Protecting your home’s plumbing & appliances.

  • Enjoying a cleaner, more comfortable lifestyle.

Soft water pays for itself in savings, convenience, and peace of mind.

Water Hardness Scale
Shower head showing hard water on one side and soft water on the other

Click here to view a summary of the Battelle Study.