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Things You Should Know About Regional Hard Water Levels: Insights from a Pentair Water Softening Company in Medinah, Illinois
If you live in Illinois, you have probably heard the term “hard water.” But what many people don’t realize is that water hardness can vary quite a lot, even from one street to the next.
Below, this Pentair water softening company in Medinah, Illinois is going to explain why your local water may be especially harsh on your home, and we’ll also explain what you can do about it.
Why does water hardness vary across Illinois?
Water hardness depends on the underground layers through which the water flows. In Medinah, as groundwater moves through rock, it picks up minerals like calcium and magnesium. These minerals are what make water “hard.”
According to the Illinois State Water Survey, calcium and magnesium are the main causes behind scale buildup and laundry issues. Across Illinois, no public groundwater supply has less than 150 parts per million (ppm) of minerals. More than 40% of supplies exceed 500 ppm. That is a big range, and it comes from natural differences in the geology and how water sources are mixed.
In Medinah, your water could come from different wells depending on the season. Some draw from shallow layers, others from deeper ones. Water can also be blended, so your water hardness could change with the weather, the season, or even the day.
Because of that, two homes on the same street can have very different experiences. One might see heavy scale on faucets, while the other does not.
Why is Medinah’s water harder than most?
Medinah’s water tends to have more minerals than many other places in Illinois. This leads to a faster buildup and increased strain on plumbing and appliances.
Nearby suburbs like Des Plaines and Downers Grove have hardness levels between 288 and 350 ppm, which is considered “very hard.” Anything over 200 ppm is likely to cause staining and plumbing problems.
The region’s glacial gravel and Silurian dolomite bedrock both contribute to higher mineral levels. The Illinois State Water Survey reports that local hardness can range from 200 to 400 mg/L, and may vary by 25–75% depending on depth and location.
So, even houses in the same neighborhood might see different results. One household might need to replace a water heater early, whereas another only notices some spots on the glass.
To address this, your water softener needs to be customized to meet your specific needs. A Pentair water softening company in Medinah, Illinois will evaluate your home size, daily water use, and exact water source for that exact purpose.
Testing is very important.
A properly sized softener starts with proper testing. Without accurate numbers, your system could be too large or too small.
To size a softener, multiply your water usage by the hardness level. If either number is incorrect, the system may waste salt and water, and it will fail to adequately protect your home.
It is better not to go too big. Oversized systems cost more to buy, run, and maintain. Systems that adjust to your real needs are more efficient.
Most store-bought test kits can’t detect high levels or distinguish between different minerals. That can result in poor sizing. You could get a softener that regenerates too frequently, or not frequently enough.
A full-service Pentair water softening company in Medinah, Illinois will test your water on-site before installation. They measure hardness, check for iron, and account for seasonal changes. Then, they calibrate the system to match your actual conditions. That helps it run better, last longer, and protect your home more effectively.
Looking for a Pentair Water Softening Company in Medinah, Illinois?
As the most trusted Pentair water softening company in Medinah, Illinois, Johnson Water Conditioning is here to help with all your water quality needs. We provide accurate testing, personalized recommendations, and dependable installation to help you get the best results from your home’s water. Contact us today to learn how we can help.