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Water Hardness in 28734

Franklin, North Carolina · Macon County

12 PPM
0.7 GPG
Soft
0Soft60120180300+
High Confidence - USGS Monitoring

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
4 USGS-backed sources
5 matched systems total for this ZIP; USGS monitoring is used where treated-water reports are unavailable.
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 28734

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.
Franklin, Town Of
NC0157010
Soft
12 PPMsurface water9,650 servedEstimated - County Avg
Lbj Job Corps
NC0157428
Soft
2 PPMgroundwater270 servedHigh Confidence - USGS Monitoring
Gemstone Village
NC1057026
Soft
2 PPMsurface water75 servedHigh Confidence - USGS Monitoring
Cullasaja River S/D
NC0157152
Soft
2 PPMgroundwater53 servedHigh Confidence - USGS Monitoring
Laurel Hills
NC1057025
Soft
2 PPMgroundwater26 servedHigh Confidence - USGS Monitoring

Nearby Zip Codes

287631328781132871322874163053726305682528725628789628779628904122870233056226

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.

MethodologyData sourcesHow to test your 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 Franklin, NC (28734).

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is the water hard in Franklin, NC (28734)?

The average water hardness in 28734 is 12 PPM (0.7 GPG), which is classified as soft.

Do I need a water softener in 28734?

At 12 PPM, your water is relatively soft. A water softener is generally not necessary.

Is hard water in 28734 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 28734?

Zip code 28734 in Franklin, North Carolina is served by 5 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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