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Water Hardness in 92243

El Centro, California · Imperial County

320 PPM
18.7 GPG
Very Hard
0Soft60120180300+
High Confidence — USGS Monitoring

Dataset updated March 9, 2026Matched to 9 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 9 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 USGS-backed source
9 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 92243

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.

9 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.
El Centro, City Of
CA1310004
Very Hard
388 PPMsurface water43,772 servedEstimated — Nearby Data
Calexico, City Of
CA1310002
Very Hard
388 PPMsurface water40,357 servedEstimated — Nearby Data
Brawley, City Of
CA1310001
Very Hard
285 PPMsurface water26,862 servedHigh Confidence — USGS Monitoring
Imperial, City Of
CA1310006
Slightly Hard
87 PPMsurface water21,591 servedEstimated — Nearby Data
Gateway
CA1300018
Very Hard
388 PPMsurface water1,800 servedEstimated — Nearby Data
Showing the first 5 systems. Expand to review all matched systems.

Nearby Zip Codes

9227331592231318922493219225131092259317922813189222731892250307

What This Means For You

Recommendations are based on the displayed ZIP hardness reading. Confirm your tap reading before sizing or buying treatment equipment.

Very Hard Water - Treatment Strongly Recommended

Your water is very hard. Without treatment, you can expect significant scale buildup in pipes and appliances, higher energy bills from reduced water heater efficiency, and persistent issues with skin and hair dryness.

Recommended Products

Salt-Based Water Softener
Our PickAFWFilters Fleck 5600SXT 48KAlso GreatWhirlpool WHES40E 40KAlso GreatAFWFilters 64K GrainAlso GreatAFWFilters Iron Pro 2 64KAlso GreatSpringWell Filter + Softener Combo
Water Hardness Test Kit
Our PickVarify (150 Strips)Also GreatJNW Direct (150 Strips)
Whole-House Water Filter
Our PickiSpring WGB32B 3-Stage
Water Softener Salt
Our PickMorton Clean & ProtectAlso GreatDiamond Crystal Bright & Soft
Shower Head Filter
Our PickWeddell DuoAlso GreatAquaBliss SF100Also GreatSprite Pure 7-SettingAlso GreatAqua Earth 20-Stage

Learn more: Do I Need a Water Softener? | Salt-Based vs Salt-Free | Size Calculator | How 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 El Centro, CA (92243).

Submit Your Data

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the water hard in El Centro, CA (92243)?

The average water hardness in 92243 is 320 PPM (18.7 GPG), which is classified as very hard.

Do I need a water softener in 92243?

With hardness of 320 PPM, a water softener is recommended for homes in 92243.

Is hard water in 92243 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 92243?

Zip code 92243 in El Centro, California is served by 9 water systems.

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