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Water Hardness in 52649

Salem, Iowa · Henry County

280 PPM
16.4 GPG
Very Hard
0Soft60120180300+
High Confidence - USGS Monitoring

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
3 USGS-backed sources
3 matched systems total for this ZIP; USGS monitoring is used where treated-water reports are unavailable.
Water source profile
Primarily groundwater
Groundwater commonly picks up calcium and magnesium after contact with rock and soil. 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 52649

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.
Salem Water Supply
IA4478023
Very Hard
280 PPMgroundwater396 servedHigh Confidence - USGS Monitoring
Stockport Water Supply
IA8973095
Very Hard
280 PPMsurface water272 servedHigh Confidence - USGS Monitoring
Westwood Water Supply
IA4453318
Very Hard
280 PPMgroundwater101 servedHigh Confidence - USGS Monitoring

Nearby Zip Codes

526313085263033552641388526563075265133552645396526253075263530752620335526232785262633652624308

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 Salem, IA (52649).

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is the water hard in Salem, IA (52649)?

The average water hardness in 52649 is 280 PPM (16.4 GPG), which is classified as very hard.

Do I need a water softener in 52649?

With hardness of 280 PPM, a water softener is recommended for homes in 52649.

Is hard water in 52649 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 52649?

Zip code 52649 in Salem, Iowa is served by 3 water systems.

Learn More About Your Water

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

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