Why Hard Water in Chicagoland is Ruining Your Fixtures (And How to Fix It)

The water in Chicagoland — including Wheaton and most of DuPage County — is classified as “very hard,” typically measuring 15–25 grains per gallon. This mineral-heavy water causes scale buildup in pipes and appliances, leaves white residue on fixtures, shortens the life of your water heater, and makes soap and shampoo work less effectively.