What is the ideal range for water hardness measured in ppm?

The ideal range for water hardness typically falls within 200 to 275 ppm (parts per million). This range indicates a moderately hard water level, which is often considered acceptable for various household and industrial applications, including drinking water supply.

Water hardness results from the presence of dissolved minerals, specifically calcium and magnesium. Water that is too soft (with very low mineral content) may lead to corrosion of pipes and fixtures, while water that is excessively hard can cause scale buildup in plumbing and appliances. Therefore, the identified range strikes a balance between these extremes, providing adequate mineral content without the negative side effects associated with very hard water.

While lower ranges (like 100-150 ppm) reflect soft to moderately hard water, and higher ranges (like 275-300 ppm) reflect hard to very hard water, they may not provide the ideal conditions for both health and equipment upkeep. The choice of 200-275 ppm is favored in many guidelines for maintaining optimal water quality for consumption and general use.