One of the most frequently asked questions we hear at Helix Water District (HWD) is, "Do we have hard water?" The one-word answer to that question is "yes," although the degree of hardness varies depending upon the time of year.

Water hardness refers to the mineral content in the water and is commonly expressed in "grains" of hardness. Generally, water with 10 grains or more is considered "hard." Water imported from the Colorado River and Northern California averages 14 grains of hardness.

While the hardness of the water does not affect its safety, the higher mineral content can typically cause white spots on glasses in the dishwasher or mineral buildup on shower heads.

For glassware issues, it is best to read the owner's manual for your dishwasher and follow the manufacturer's recommendations regarding settings for hard water. Some other tips that may help reduce spotting include using hotter water, varying the brand and type of rinse agent and detergent, and adding white vinegar to the rinse cycle of the dishwasher.

For buildup on the shower heads, the deposits can be periodically removed by attaching a plastic bag with a small amount of vinegar in it to the shower head. Remember to use caution if small children can access the solution.