Water Hardness in 21771

Mount Airy, Maryland · Frederick County

116 PPM
6.8 GPG
Slightly Hard
0Soft60120180300+
Verified - Annual Water Quality Report

Dataset updated March 9, 2026Matched to 5 water systemsTap readings can vary by utility zone, treatment, and plumbing. Methodology

Source context

How this ZIP reading is built

This ZIP reading is built from 5 matched water systems. When more than one system is matched, the displayed value is weighted toward larger known service populations when that data is available.

Source basis
2 verified treated-water sources
5 matched systems total for this ZIP; treated-water reports are prioritized when available.
Water source profile
Primarily surface water
Surface-water hardness can shift with reservoirs, runoff, season, and treatment. This profile is weighted by known population served across matched systems.
Data recency
March 9, 2026
Dataset rebuilt March 9, 2026; individual utility reporting years can vary.

Hardness is a mineral-content reading, not a drinking-water safety rating. Use it for scale, appliance, and softener decisions; check your utility report or test your tap before sizing treatment equipment. See how we calculate local readings.

Water Systems Serving 21771

These are the systems matched to this ZIP code. The displayed ZIP value is weighted toward larger known service populations when population data is available.

5 water systems
PWSID is the public water system identifier. Data Source shows whether the hardness value comes from a treated-water report, USGS monitoring, or a local estimate; source year is shown when available.
Moderately Hard
120 PPMsurface water74,911 servedVerified - Annual Water Quality Report
Source water: 140 PPM
Moderately Hard
120 PPMsurface water54,000 servedVerified - Annual Water Quality Report
Source water: 175 PPM
Soft
59 PPMgroundwater9,890 servedHigh Confidence - USGS Monitoring
59 PPMgroundwater300 servedHigh Confidence - USGS Monitoring
59 PPMgroundwater104 servedHigh Confidence - USGS Monitoring

Nearby Zip Codes

What This Means For You

Use this ZIP reading as a local planning estimate, not a final treatment specification. Hardness can vary by utility zone, seasonal blend, private well, and building plumbing. Confirm your tap reading with a utility report or home hardness test before sizing equipment.

Know your water hardness?

If you've tested your water or have your utility's CCR report, share your reading to help us improve accuracy for Mount Airy, MD (21771).

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is the water hard in Mount Airy, MD (21771)?

The average water hardness in 21771 is 116 PPM (6.8 GPG), which is classified as slightly hard.

Do I need a water softener in 21771?

At 116 PPM, your water is relatively soft. A water softener is generally not necessary.

Is hard water in 21771 safe to drink?

Water hardness itself is a mineral-content reading, not a drinking-water safety rating. Calcium and magnesium are naturally occurring minerals, but you should check your utility's Consumer Confidence Report for contaminant and compliance information.

How many water systems serve 21771?

Zip code 21771 in Mount Airy, Maryland is served by 5 water systems.

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