Yes — Reno has very hard water. In fact, Northern Nevada consistently ranks among the top regions in the United States for water hardness. Here's what that means and why it matters.
Why Is Reno Water Hard?
Water hardness comes from dissolved calcium and magnesium minerals that water picks up as it flows through rock and soil. The Sierra Nevada and Great Basin geology is rich in these minerals. As groundwater and surface water travel through this terrain before reaching Reno's treatment plants, they accumulate significant mineral content.
How Hard Is Reno Water?
Reno city water typically registers 150–250 mg/L hardness (about 9–15 grains per gallon). Water is classified as "hard" above 120 mg/L and "very hard" above 180 mg/L. Most Reno households fall in the very hard range.
The Real Cost of Hard Water
Hard water costs Northern Nevada homeowners in multiple ways: reduced appliance efficiency (water heaters with scale buildup use up to 30% more energy), shortened appliance lifespans, premature pipe corrosion, increased soap and detergent usage, and the ongoing cost of dealing with scale-related plumbing issues.
Studies show a quality water softener can save the average Northern Nevada household over $4,500 per year when you account for all these factors combined. A free water test from Pure Water Systems will show you exactly how hard your specific water is and what the most cost-effective solution looks like.