WH

Water Hardness in 48502

Flint, Michigan · Genesee County

226 PPM
13.2 GPG
Hard
0Soft60120180300+
Verified - Utility Reported

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
1 verified treated-water source
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 48502

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.
Flint, City Of
MI0002310
Hard
242 PPMsurface water81,252 servedVerified - Utility Reported
Source water: 240 PPM
Genesee County Water System
MI0002615
Hard
240 PPMsurface water73,726 servedHigh Confidence - USGS Monitoring
Burton, City Of
MI0001010
Moderately Hard
120 PPMsurface water21,000 servedHigh Confidence - USGS Monitoring
Charter Township Of Grand Blanc
MI0002745
Hard
240 PPMsurface water21,000 servedEstimated - County Avg
Fenton, City Of
MI0002270
Hard
185 PPMgroundwater11,746 servedHigh Confidence - USGS Monitoring

Nearby Zip Codes

485032264852922648507226485052264850422648509226485192264850622648532226484392264845822648437222

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 Flint, MI (48502).

Submit Your Data

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the water hard in Flint, MI (48502)?

The average water hardness in 48502 is 226 PPM (13.2 GPG), which is classified as hard.

Do I need a water softener in 48502?

With hardness of 226 PPM, a water softener is recommended for homes in 48502.

Is hard water in 48502 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 48502?

Zip code 48502 in Flint, Michigan is served by 5 water systems.

Learn More About Your Water

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

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

Well Water Hardness: Why It's Usually Hard & How to Treat It

Well water is almost always harder than city water. Learn why, how to test your well, and the best treatment options for hard well water.

8 min read