How hard is Uxbridge water?
Uxbridge runs on groundwater. Durham doesn't publish hardness for these wells, but groundwater in north Durham is typically harder than lake water, and the Region adds sodium silicate to its wells to manage iron.
At 7 grains per gallon and up you'll see white scale on taps and shower glass, spots on dishes, a crusty kettle, and water heaters that lose efficiency over time.
Why Uxbridge homeowners install softeners
Outside the town itself, almost every Uxbridge home is on a private well. Groundwater here comes from the moraine, and the Region's own wells need iron treatment.
- Stops scale in water heaters, dishwashers and washing machines
- Spot-free glassware and shower doors
- Less soap and detergent
- Softer-feeling skin and hair
Which softener fits a Uxbridge home?
Uxbridge water is chlorinated (free chlorine of 0.69 to 1.84 mg/L in 2025), so most homes are best served by the Enhanced Water Softener, which softens and removes chlorine in one tank. If chlorine doesn't bother you, SoftBlu is a straight, high-capacity softener.

Enhanced Water Softener
Softens hard water and removes chlorine and chloramine in one system.
See Enhanced Water Softener
SoftBlu Water Softener
High-capacity softener that stops scale on fixtures, kettles and appliances.
See SoftBlu Water Softener
Iron & Manganese Filter
Birm media removes iron, manganese and the orange or black stains they leave.
See Iron & Manganese FilterOn a private well in Goodwood, Leaskdale, Zephyr, Glen Major? Iron usually needs to come out before the softener. See well water treatment in Uxbridge.
What it costs
Rent monthly with maintenance included, finance with 0% options, or buy outright, with free installation and a 10-year warranty. See payment options.
Source: Region of Durham, Uxbridge Drinking Water System 2025 Annual Report. More about Uxbridge water.
Water softeners in nearby towns
Questions
Do I need a water softener in Uxbridge?
If you see scale on taps, kettles or shower glass, yes. A free test shows your exact hardness, so we can tell you whether it's worth it.
How long does installation take?
Most softener installs take about an hour, often the day after your water test.
How much salt will I use?
Most households top up the brine tank every month or two. We set the softener to your measured hardness so it doesn't waste salt.
Free in-home water test
Find out what's in your Uxbridge water
We test your water at your home, show you what's in it, and recommend the system that fits.
- Free
- About 30 minutes
- No obligation
