Huntington vs Wheeling Water Quality

Side-by-side water quality comparison for two West Virginia cities.

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

Hardness comparison

Huntington has somewhat harder water at 150 PPM versus Wheeling at 135 PPM, a difference of 15 PPM. At 150 PPM, Huntington residents will notice spotting and reduced soap efficiency. A softener is recommended for long-term appliance protection. Wheeling also has hard water but to a lesser degree.

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

Water sources and why they differ

Water sources differ: Huntington draws from Ohio River, while Wheeling uses Ohio River. Both use similar source types, but local geology creates the hardness variation.

Contaminant concerns

PFAS contamination is a concern in Wheeling (6.7 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 Wheeling to Huntington, 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.

MetricHuntingtonWheeling
Hardness150 PPM135 PPM
GPG8.87.9
TDS189 PPM168 PPM
PFAS0 ppt6.7 ppt
Lead1 ppb1 ppb
Chlorine0.9 mg/L0.6 mg/L
LevelHardHard

FAQ

Which has harder water, Huntington or Wheeling?
Huntington has harder water at 150 PPM compared to Wheeling at 135 PPM. That is a difference of 15 PPM.
Do I need a water softener if I move from Wheeling to Huntington?
Yes, you will likely notice the difference. At 150 PPM, a water softener is recommended to prevent scale buildup and protect appliances.
Is Wheeling water safe to drink?
Wheeling water meets EPA safety standards. However, PFAS levels of 6.7 ppt exceed the 2024 EPA health advisory of 4 ppt. A certified filter is recommended.