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Water Hardness in 27278

Hillsborough, North Carolina · Orange County

38 PPM
2.2 GPG
Soft
0Soft60120180300+
Verified — Annual Water Quality Report

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
2 verified treated-water sources
3 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 27278

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.
Orange Water & Sewer Authority
NC0368010
Soft
38 PPMsurface water86,300 servedVerified — Annual Water Quality Report
Source water: 39 PPM
Hillsborough, Town Of
NC0368015
Soft
38 PPMsurface water14,006 servedVerified — Annual Water Quality Report
Source water: 39 PPM
Maple Ridge Mhp
NC0368122
Soft
39 PPMgroundwater216 servedHigh Confidence — USGS Monitoring

Nearby Zip Codes

272433727705352723138275143827712352730293275033527707352770135275412127510382751638

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 Hillsborough, NC (27278).

Submit Your Data

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the water hard in Hillsborough, NC (27278)?

The average water hardness in 27278 is 38 PPM (2.2 GPG), which is classified as soft.

Do I need a water softener in 27278?

At 38 PPM, your water is relatively soft. A water softener is generally not necessary.

Is hard water in 27278 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 27278?

Zip code 27278 in Hillsborough, North Carolina 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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