Do you know what’s in your water? Whether you’re dealing with hard water buildup, strange odors, or just want peace of mind, water testing can uncover hidden issues that impact your home, health, and appliances.
In this guide, we’ll explore why water testing matters, common water quality issues in Calgary, and how to test your water effectively.
Why Water Testing is Important
Many homeowners assume their water is okay because it looks and tastes normal, but that’s not always true. Water testing helps identify:
✔️ 
Hard water minerals (calcium & magnesium)
✔️ Chlorine levels from city treatment
✔️ Heavy metals like lead or iron
✔️ Bacteria & contaminants that could pose health risks
✔️ pH balance that affects plumbing & appliances
Whether your water comes from the city or a well, testing gives you a clear picture of its quality and helps you make informed decisions about filtration, softening, or treatment.
Common Water Quality Issues in Calgary
1. Hard Water
Calgary is known for having high water hardness levels, typically over 14 grains per gallon (gpg)—well above the “moderately hard” threshold of 3 gpg. Hard water can cause:
- White spots on dishes & glassware
- Scale buildup on faucets & showerheads
- Soap scum in sinks & tubs
- Reduced lifespan of water heaters & appliances
A water softener can help remove these minerals, making cleaning easier and extending the life of your plumbing.
2. Chlorine & Disinfection Byproducts
The City of Calgary treats water with chlorine to eliminate bacteria, but excess chlorine can:
- Dry out skin & hair
- Affect the taste & smell of drinking water
- React with organic matter to form disinfection byproducts (DBPs)
A simple carbon filtration system can reduce chlorine and improve water taste.
3. Heavy Metals & Sediment
Older homes or areas with corroded pipes may have traces of lead, iron, or copper in their water. Symptoms include:
- Rusty water or metallic taste
- Staining on sinks & laundry
Testing can determine if you need a filtration system or plumbing upgrades to remove heavy metals.
4. Bacteria & Contaminants
Well water users and those concerned about bacteria should test for:
- E. coli & coliform bacteria (indicates fecal contamination)
- Nitrates (linked to health risks in infants)
- Pesticides & industrial pollutants (in rural areas)
Bacterial contamination requires UV purification, filtration, or chemical treatment to ensure safety.
How to Get Your Water Tested in Calgary
DIY Water Testing Kits
- Available at hardware stores
- Test for elemental contaminants like hardness, chlorine, pH & lead
- Inexpensive but not as detailed as professional tests
Professional Water Testing Services
- More comprehensive analysis
- Can test for bacteria, heavy metals & industrial contaminants
- Ideal for well water users or homes with older plumbing
At Ecowater Calgary, we can test your water and recommend the proper filtration or softening system for your home.
Call or Contact Us Today!