Water hardness in Ames
9.4 gpg hard
Tap water in Ames is hard: 9.4 gpg (161 mg/L · 9 °dH · 16.1 °fH).
Source: City of Ames Water Treatment Plant - Drinking Water Quality Data (2026-09) · data checked 2026-10-20
The City of Ames Water Treatment Plant publishes monthly data for treated water. The September 2026 average is 161 mg/L (9.4 gpg), which is hard. This is a single month, not an annual average, so the value may move through the year. Visible scale on kettles and fixtures is likely at this level, and the city's data page is the place to check for updates.
USGS classes: soft 0–60, moderately hard 61–120, hard 121–180, very hard >180 mg/L.
Water data
| Total hardness | 9.4 gpg |
|---|---|
| Utility | City of Ames Water Treatment Plant |
How Ames compares
- Tap water in Ames is close to the median of the 1372 cities we track in the United States (9.1 gpg).
- By hardness it ranks 657 of 1372 in the United States (1 = hardest); 52 % of these cities have softer water.
- In Iowa it is number 2 of 5 cities; the regional median is 8 gpg.
Ranking of the hardest and softest water in the United States →
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 Ames
| 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 Ames water hard or soft?
It is hard: 161 mg/L as CaCO₃ (9.4 gpg, 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 Ames safe to drink?
Hardness is not a health issue; it is about limescale, taste and appliances. Mains water must meet national drinking-water standards. USGS classes: soft 0–60, moderately hard 61–120, hard 121–180, very hard >180 mg/L.
How many grains per gallon is Ames water?
9.4 gpg, equal to 9 °dH, 16.1 °fH or 161 mg/L calcium carbonate.
What dishwasher salt setting should I use in Ames?
For 161 mg/L (9 °dH) check your manufacturer's table: level 4–5.
Do I need a water softener in Ames?
Recommended if you have a water heater, boiler or tankless unit: it saves repairs and detergent.
Source
Source: City of Ames Water Treatment Plant - Drinking Water Quality Data (2026-09). Method: own measurement. City of Ames Water Treatment Plant - Drinking Water Quality Data · Outdated figure? Tell us