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Water Hardness in 28428

Carolina Beach, North Carolina · New Hanover County

45 PPM
2.6 GPG
Soft
0Soft60120180300+
Verified — Annual Water Quality Report

Dataset updated March 9, 2026Matched to 4 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 4 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
4 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 28428

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.

4 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.
Cfpua-Wilmington
NC0465010
Soft
40 PPMsurface water198,740 servedVerified — Annual Water Quality Report
Source water: 23 PPM
The Cape Master System
NC0465199
Soft
40 PPMgroundwater11,587 servedVerified — Annual Water Quality Report
Source water: 56 PPM
Carolina Beach Water System
NC0465015
Hard
185 PPMgroundwater6,864 servedHigh Confidence — USGS Monitoring
South Ridge Mhp
NC0465206
Hard
185 PPMgroundwater115 servedHigh Confidence — USGS Monitoring

Nearby Zip Codes

28449432841240284791582840940284611582840340284804028465158284054128422158284511582840140

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 Carolina Beach, NC (28428).

Submit Your Data

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the water hard in Carolina Beach, NC (28428)?

The average water hardness in 28428 is 45 PPM (2.6 GPG), which is classified as soft.

Do I need a water softener in 28428?

At 45 PPM, your water is relatively soft. A water softener is generally not necessary.

Is hard water in 28428 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 28428?

Zip code 28428 in Carolina Beach, North Carolina is served by 4 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.

10 min read

How to Test Water Hardness at Home

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

8 min read