Washington vs Bolingbrook Water Quality

Side-by-side water quality comparison for two Illinois cities.

If you are comparing Washington and Bolingbrook water quality - whether moving, choosing between the two, or curious about a relative's water - here is what the data shows.

Hardness comparison

Washington has somewhat harder water at 380 PPM versus Bolingbrook at 350 PPM, a difference of 30 PPM. At 380 PPM, Washington residents should budget for a water softener ($600-$1,500 installed). Without one, expect scale buildup on fixtures, reduced water heater efficiency, and $800-$1,200/year in hidden costs. Bolingbrook also has hard water but to a lesser degree.

Both cities have hard water, but Washington's higher hardness means more aggressive scale buildup and higher household impact.

Water sources and why they differ

Water sources differ: Washington draws from Deep wells, while Bolingbrook uses Lake Michigan via DuPage Water. Both use similar source types, but local geology creates the hardness variation.

What this means for you

If you are moving from Bolingbrook to Washington, you will notice the water difference. Budget for a water softener and expect to use more soap and detergent until you install one.

Not sure what your specific situation needs? Take the quiz to get a recommendation based on your water data, budget, and household size.

MetricWashingtonBolingbrook
Hardness380 PPM350 PPM
GPG22.220.5
TDS570 PPM520 PPM
PFAS0 ppt0 ppt
Lead1.1 ppb1 ppb
Chlorine1.1 mg/L1.5 mg/L
LevelExtremely HardExtremely Hard

FAQ

Which has harder water, Washington or Bolingbrook?
Washington has harder water at 380 PPM compared to Bolingbrook at 350 PPM. That is a difference of 30 PPM.
Do I need a water softener if I move from Bolingbrook to Washington?
Yes, you will likely notice the difference. At 380 PPM, a water softener is recommended to prevent scale buildup and protect appliances.
Is Bolingbrook water safe to drink?
Bolingbrook water meets EPA safety standards. No contaminants exceed health guidelines in our data.