Moving to Webster Groves, MO? What to Know About the Water
Water quality essentials for anyone relocating to Webster Groves.
Water Hardness: 140 PPM (hard)
Webster Groves's water is hard at 140 PPM. You will likely notice some spotting on dishes, slightly drier skin, and soap that does not lather as well as you might be used to. A water softener is beneficial, especially if you have a tankless water heater or high-end fixtures.
Contaminants to Know About
PFAS levels in Webster Groves are within EPA limits. No specific PFAS filtration needed.
Lead levels are within normal ranges. If your new home has pre-1986 plumbing, a quick test ($15-$30) confirms your tap specifically.
Chlorine is present at 1.3 mg/L. This is within the normal range and most people will not notice it. Missouri American Water is your water provider.
First-Week Water Checklist
Flush the pipes: Run every faucet (hot and cold) for 5 minutes after moving in. Water has been sitting in the pipes during the vacancy, and lead/copper levels are highest in stagnant water.
Check the water heater: Note its age (labeled on the unit). Set temperature to 120°F. In Webster Groves's hard water, tank water heaters last 8-10 years instead of 12-15. Tankless heaters are more vulnerable - check your manufacturer's warranty conditions for hardness limits.
Inspect fixtures: Look for existing scale buildup on faucets and shower heads. Heavy white deposits indicate the previous owners did not have a softener - and your plumbing may already have internal scale.
Request the CCR: Contact Missouri American Water for the latest Consumer Confidence Report, which provides neighborhood-level water quality data.
Test your tap: A $15-$25 home test kit confirms whether your specific tap matches city averages. Worth doing if the home has older plumbing.
What to Budget for Water Treatment
Recommended: Water softener or conditioner. Salt-based softener: $600-$1,500 installed with $100/year in salt. Salt-free conditioner: $800-$2,000, zero ongoing cost. Either protects your appliances and plumbing from scale damage.
Nice to have: Shower filter. $30-$40. Noticeable improvement in skin and hair dryness within the first week. Easy to install, easy to justify.
Not sure where to start? Take the quiz - it factors in your budget, household size, and whether you rent or own.