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Water Hardness in 22546

Ruther Glen, Virginia · Caroline County

17 PPM
1 GPG
Soft
0Soft60120180300+
High Confidence — USGS Monitoring

Dataset updated March 9, 2026Matched to 3 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 3 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
3 USGS-backed sources
3 matched systems total for this ZIP; USGS monitoring is used where treated-water reports are unavailable.
Water source profile
Primarily groundwater
Groundwater commonly picks up calcium and magnesium after contact with rock and soil. 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 22546

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.

3 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.
Caroline Utility System
VA6033085
Soft
17 PPMgroundwater4,235 servedHigh Confidence — USGS Monitoring
Milford Sanitary District
VA6033500
Soft
17 PPMgroundwater1,117 servedHigh Confidence — USGS Monitoring
Townfield-Prl
VA6033650
Soft
17 PPMgroundwater147 servedHigh Confidence — USGS Monitoring

Nearby Zip Codes

23047272251412023015272258012022427302306927230052723192272253429231261202300912023024120

What This Means For You

Recommendations are based on the displayed ZIP hardness reading. Confirm your tap reading before sizing or buying treatment equipment.

Your Water Is Soft

Your water hardness is in the soft range. You likely don't need a water softener. Enjoy your naturally soft water!

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 Ruther Glen, VA (22546).

Submit Your Data

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the water hard in Ruther Glen, VA (22546)?

The average water hardness in 22546 is 17 PPM (1 GPG), which is classified as soft.

Do I need a water softener in 22546?

At 17 PPM, your water is relatively soft. A water softener is generally not necessary.

Is hard water in 22546 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 22546?

Zip code 22546 in Ruther Glen, Virginia is served by 3 water systems.

Learn More About Your Water

Water Hardness Scale: PPM and GPG Chart

Use the USGS water hardness scale to compare PPM, GPG, and mg/L levels from soft to very hard water.

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How to Test Water Hardness at Home

Compare free lookups, soap tests, test strips, liquid drop kits, and lab tests for measuring water hardness.

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