Tooele vs West Jordan Water Quality

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

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

Hardness comparison

Tooele has significantly harder water at 280 PPM versus West Jordan at 187 PPM, a difference of 93 PPM. At 280 PPM, Tooele 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. West Jordan also has hard water but to a lesser degree.

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

Water sources and why they differ

Water sources differ: Tooele draws from Vernon Reservoir & wells, while West Jordan uses Jordan River, groundwater. The mix of groundwater and surface water explains much of the hardness difference.

Contaminant concerns

PFAS contamination is a concern in West Jordan (11.65 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

If you are moving from West Jordan to Tooele, 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.

MetricTooeleWest Jordan
Hardness280 PPM187 PPM
GPG16.410.9
TDS439 PPM420 PPM
PFAS0 ppt11.65 ppt
Lead2.6 ppb3 ppb
Chlorine1 mg/L0.9 mg/L
LevelExtremely HardVery Hard

FAQ

Which has harder water, Tooele or West Jordan?
Tooele has harder water at 280 PPM compared to West Jordan at 187 PPM. That is a difference of 93 PPM.
Do I need a water softener if I move from West Jordan to Tooele?
Yes, you will likely notice the difference. At 280 PPM, a water softener is recommended to prevent scale buildup and protect appliances.
Is West Jordan water safe to drink?
West Jordan water meets EPA safety standards. However, PFAS levels of 11.65 ppt exceed the 2024 EPA health advisory of 4 ppt. A certified filter is recommended.