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Water Hardness in 52228

Fairfax, Iowa · Linn County

201 PPM
11.8 GPG
Hard
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 52228

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.
Cedar Rapids Water Department
IA5715093
Hard
200 PPMsurface water141,831 servedVerified - Annual Water Quality Report
Source water: 251 PPM
Marion Municipal Water Dept
IA5751035
Hard
200 PPMgroundwater41,623 servedVerified - Annual Water Quality Report
Source water: 286 PPM
Fairfax Water Supply
IA5731032
Very Hard
268 PPMgroundwater2,828 servedHigh Confidence - USGS Monitoring
Terry Water Association
IA0690304
Very Hard
268 PPMgroundwater25 servedHigh Confidence - USGS Monitoring

Nearby Zip Codes

523513555240420052318326524052005233818052206348522034405240120052307440523541805240220052411200

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 Fairfax, IA (52228).

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is the water hard in Fairfax, IA (52228)?

The average water hardness in 52228 is 201 PPM (11.8 GPG), which is classified as hard.

Do I need a water softener in 52228?

With hardness of 201 PPM, a water softener is recommended for homes in 52228.

Is hard water in 52228 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 52228?

Zip code 52228 in Fairfax, Iowa is served by 4 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.

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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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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.

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