Manchester vs Keene Water Quality
Side-by-side water quality comparison for two New Hampshire cities.
If you are comparing Manchester and Keene water quality - whether moving, choosing between the two, or curious about a relative's water - here is what the data shows.
Hardness comparison
Manchester has somewhat harder water at 31 PPM versus Keene at 15 PPM, a difference of 16 PPM. Keene residents generally do not need any water softening equipment.
Water sources and why they differ
Water sources differ: Manchester draws from Lake Massabesic, while Keene uses Babbidge Reservoir. Both use similar source types, but local geology creates the hardness variation.
Contaminant concerns
PFAS contamination is a concern in Manchester (4.5 ppt, above the EPA limit of 4 ppt). A reverse osmosis system or NSF P473-certified filter is recommended for drinking water.
What this means for you
Not sure what your specific situation needs? Take the quiz to get a recommendation based on your water data, budget, and household size.
| Metric | Manchester | Keene |
|---|---|---|
| Hardness | 31 PPM | 15 PPM |
| GPG | 1.8 | 0.9 |
| TDS | 54 PPM | 23 PPM |
| PFAS | 4.5 ppt | 0 ppt |
| Lead | 1 ppb | 1 ppb |
| Chlorine | 1 mg/L | 1.5 mg/L |
| Level | Slightly Hard | Soft |