Water Awareness Foundation
Lookup Tool

Check Your Water Quality

Enter your ZIP code to learn about your local water source, hardness, treatment method, and known concerns.

Currently covering Colorado Front Range ZIP codes

Understanding Your Results

Here is what each data point means and why it matters for your household.

Water Hardness

Measured in grains per gallon (GPG), hardness reflects dissolved calcium and magnesium. Moderate (3-7 GPG) is common in mountain surface water. Hard (7-14 GPG) and Very Hard (15+ GPG) are typical of groundwater sources and can cause scale buildup on fixtures, water heaters, and appliances.

Disinfectant Type

Chlorine and chloramine are both used to disinfect municipal water. Chlorine is simpler and dissipates faster. Chloramine (chlorine combined with ammonia) lasts longer in the distribution system, which is why larger utilities prefer it. Both can produce disinfection byproducts and affect taste or odor.

Water Source

Where your water originates shapes its characteristics. Mountain surface water (rivers, reservoirs) tends to be softer with seasonal variability. Groundwater from deep aquifers is often much harder with higher mineral content. Many utilities blend both sources depending on the season.

Known Concerns

These are area-level observations based on utility reports, EPA data, and infrastructure assessments. They do not mean your water is unsafe, but they highlight factors worth being aware of. A home-level analysis provides the most accurate picture of what reaches your specific tap.

Where does this data come from?

Our ZIP code data is compiled from publicly available sources including municipal Consumer Confidence Reports (annual water quality reports), EPA compliance data, utility websites, and USGS water quality studies. Hardness and treatment information represent typical ranges for the service area and may vary seasonally. For the most accurate picture of your specific home, we recommend a free point-of-use water analysis.

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Want the Full Picture?

A ZIP code lookup gives you the big picture. A home water analysis shows you exactly what reaches your tap.