How hard is the water in Henderson, Nevada?

Henderson water has a hardness level of 17 GPG (300 PPM), which is classified as "Very Hard." Due to seasonal groundwater blending, hardness can range from 16-19 GPG depending on your location and time of year.

Does Henderson use Las Vegas Valley Water District?

No. Henderson has its own independent water utility—the City of Henderson Department of Utility Services. While Henderson is part of the Southern Nevada Water Authority (SNWA) like LVVWD, it operates separate distribution systems, treatment facilities, and billing. Henderson also uses local groundwater wells that can make water slightly harder than Las Vegas.

Where does Henderson get its water?

Approximately 85% of Henderson's water comes from the Colorado River via Lake Mead, treated at SNWA facilities and the City of Henderson's own treatment plant. The remaining 15% comes from local deep-water groundwater wells, primarily used during summer peak demand periods.

Is Henderson water safe to drink?

Yes, Henderson water is safe to drink and meets or exceeds all EPA and state safety standards. The City of Henderson publishes annual water quality reports confirming compliance. Water hardness (calcium and magnesium) poses no health risks—it's an aesthetic and practical concern, not a health one.

Do I need a water softener in Henderson?

With water hardness ranging from 16-19 GPG, a salt-based water softener is highly recommended for Henderson homes. The hard water causes scale buildup in pipes and appliances, reduces soap effectiveness, and leaves spots on dishes. For softener settings, 18-20 GPG is recommended to account for seasonal fluctuations.

Why is Henderson water sometimes harder than Las Vegas?

Henderson can have slightly harder water (up to 19 GPG vs Las Vegas's typical 16-17 GPG) because the city operates its own groundwater wells. Well water from local aquifers is naturally harder due to mineral-rich geological formations. During summer peak demand, more well water is blended in, temporarily increasing hardness levels.

Water Hardness in Henderson, Nevada

Official water hardness data from the City of Henderson Department of Utility Services

Hardness Level

17 GPG

300 PPM

Classification

Very Hard

Water Source

Lake Mead + Wells

85% / 15% Blend

Last Updated

June 2025

CCR Report

What This Means For You

At 17 grains per gallon (GPG), Henderson has very hard water—similar to neighboring Las Vegas but with some important differences. Henderson operates its own independent water utility, separate from the Las Vegas Valley Water District.

Henderson receives approximately 85% of its water from the Colorado River via Lake Mead, treated at SNWA facilities and the City of Henderson water treatment plant. The remaining 15% comes from local deep-water wells, primarily used during summer peak demand. The well water is naturally harder due to mineral-rich aquifers, causing seasonal variation in hardness levels.

While hard water is completely safe to drink (calcium and magnesium are essential minerals), it causes practical problems in homes: scale buildup in pipes and water heaters, reduced appliance efficiency, spotty dishes, dry skin and hair, and the need for more soap and detergent.

Mineral Composition

Calcium

75 mg/L

Magnesium

25 mg/L

Total Dissolved Solids

600 mg/L

Hardness by Area

Central HendersonTypical hardness around 16-17 GPG from blended sources

Southeast HendersonMay experience slightly higher hardness (up to 19 GPG) during summer due to increased well water use

Frequently Asked Questions

Official Source

Data sourced from the official Consumer Confidence Report published by the City of Henderson Department of Utility Services.

View Official Water Quality Report →