Water hardness in Lethbridge
158 mg/L hard
Tap water in Lethbridge is hard: 158 mg/L (9.2 gpg · 8.9 °dH · 15.8 °fH).
Source: City of Lethbridge, Water Quality Summary March 2026 (2026) · data checked 2026-11-02
The figure for Lethbridge is 158 mg/L as CaCO3, from the City's March 2026 water quality summary of treated water. It is a single monthly sample, not a yearly average. Other quarterly summaries we saw quoted show similar levels, but we did not open them. Moderately hard water like this leaves visible scale on kettles and shower heads over time.
Health Canada: hardness above 200 mg/L is considered poor but tolerable; above 500 mg/L unacceptable.
Water data
| Total hardness | 158 mg/L |
|---|---|
| Utility | City of Lethbridge Water Treatment Plant |
How Lethbridge compares
- Tap water in Lethbridge is 56 % harder than the median of the 254 cities we track in Canada (101 mg/L).
- By hardness it ranks 63 of 254 in Canada (1 = hardest); 75 % of these cities have softer water.
- In Alberta it is number 14 of 14 cities; the regional median is 197 mg/L.
- Nearest city with clearly harder water: High River, 123 km away (262 mg/L).
Ranking of the hardest and softest water in Canada →
What it means at home
- Fast scale on taps, shower screens and kettle; white spots on glassware.
- Water heater: efficiency loss and element failures within years if unprotected.
- Dry skin and dull hair after showering are common.
- Softener recommended; jug or reverse osmosis for drinking.
How much salt will you use for softening?
Recommended, especially with a heater or boiler: scale cuts efficiency and shortens its life.
Descale a coffee machine or kettle about every 2 months (typical manufacturer guidance for this hardness).
Estimates for planning, not a quote. Check your appliance manual for exact settings.
Dishwasher setting in Lethbridge
| Brand | Setting for this water |
|---|---|
| Bosch | H02 |
| Miele | 9 °dH |
| AEG / Electrolux | 2 |
| Beko | 3rd |
| Hoover | S1 |
| LG | H2 |
From each brand's manual for the model family named in the source; your model may differ, so check its manual. All brands and how to change the setting →
FAQ
Is Lethbridge water hard or soft?
It is hard: 158 mg/L as CaCO₃ (9.2 gpg, 8.9 °dH). The usual bands are soft < 60, moderately hard 60–120, hard 120–180 and very hard > 180 mg/L.
Is tap water in Lethbridge safe to drink?
Hardness is not a health issue; it is about limescale, taste and appliances. Mains water must meet national drinking-water standards. Health Canada: hardness above 200 mg/L is considered poor but tolerable; above 500 mg/L unacceptable.
How many grains per gallon is Lethbridge water?
9.2 gpg, equal to 8.9 °dH, 15.8 °fH or 158 mg/L calcium carbonate.
What dishwasher salt setting should I use in Lethbridge?
For 158 mg/L (8.9 °dH) check your manufacturer's table: level 4–5.
Do I need a water softener in Lethbridge?
Recommended if you have a water heater, boiler or tankless unit: it saves repairs and detergent.
Source
Source: City of Lethbridge, Water Quality Summary March 2026 (2026). Method: figure published by the water supplier. City of Lethbridge, Water Quality Summary March 2026 · Outdated figure? Tell us