Water guides

Plain-language answers on Florida water, from chloramine to hardness to what a softener really costs. No jargon, no scare tactics.

CLAY COUNTY

Well Water in Clay County: What's Actually Different

Clay County well water tends to read moderate, not the very-hard number the wider Jacksonville area is known for.

TAMPA BAY

Tampa Bay Water Hardness, Explained

Tampa Bay's tap water is hard, roughly 9.6 to 12.3 grains per gallon across the region, which the Water Quality Association rates hard to very hard.

WATER BASICS

Do You Need a Water Softener? The Signs to Watch For

The clearest signs you need a softener are spots on clean dishes, film on the shower door, dry skin and flat hair after showers, and crusty scale on faucets.

COSTS

How Much Does a Water Softener Cost in Florida?

Water treatment systems in Florida start from about $2,695 for city water and $3,595 for well water, with the final price set by what your water actually needs.

WELL WATER

How to Get Rid of Iron in Well Water

Iron in well water shows up as orange or brown staining on sinks, tubs, and laundry.

CITY WATER

How to Remove Chloramine from Tap Water

Chloramine is a chlorine-and-ammonia disinfectant many Florida cities use, and standard carbon filters barely touch it.

CITY WATER

Is Florida Tap Water Safe to Drink?

Florida city water is treated to meet federal safety standards, so it is generally safe to drink.

JACKSONVILLE

Is Jacksonville Tap Water Safe to Drink? What JEA's Data Shows

Yes.

OWNERSHIP

Water Softener Salt: How Much, How Often, and Who Carries It

A typical home softener uses roughly one to two 40-pound bags of salt a month, depending on water hardness and household size.

WATER BASICS

Water Softener vs Whole-House Filter: What's the Difference?

A water softener removes hardness, the calcium and magnesium that cause scale and spots.

WELL WATER

How to Treat Well Water: the Right Order of Steps

To treat well water, work in order: sediment first, then air-injection oxidation for iron and sulfur, then a softener for hardness, then UV for bacteria.

WATER BASICS

What Is Hard Water, and How Hard Is Florida's?

Hard water is water carrying dissolved calcium and magnesium, measured in grains per gallon (GPG).

WELL WATER

Why Does Well Water Smell Like Rotten Eggs?

The rotten-egg smell in well water is hydrogen sulfide gas, often from natural bacteria or minerals underground.

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