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Caloundra Water Hardness & Quality Report (2026)

Water Hardness

soft

~0–59 mg/L

Soft

estimated · not lab-verified

Source

mixed

pH Level

7

neutral = 7.0

Lead

0.004 mg/L

✓ Below action level

TDS

24.1 mg/L

Est. Daily Cost

A$0.10

energy & soap waste

soft~0–59 mg/LSoft · est.

0–60

mg/L

Soft

61–120

mg/L

Moderately Hard

121–180

mg/L

Hard

180+

mg/L

Very Hard

Appliance Damage Report

In Caloundra, your appliances are currently losing 4% efficiency due to mineral buildup.

ApplianceIn CaloundraSoft Water CityEfficiency Loss
Kettle
8.2 yrs
8.5 yrs-4%
Washing Machine
11.5 yrs
12 yrs-4%
Water Heater
14.4 yrs
15 yrs-4%

Regional Water Comparison

How Caloundra compares to its nearest neighbours

CityHardnessRiskSource
Caloundra, Queensland≈ 0–59 mg/L🟢 Softmixed
Mountain Creek, Queensland≈ 120–179 mg/L🟠 Hardmixed
Sippy Downs, Queensland≈ 0–60 mg/L🟢 Softmixed
Buderim, Queensland≈ 60–120 mg/L🟡 Moderately Hardmixed
Maroochydore, Queensland≈ 0–60 mg/L🟢 Softmixed

National Benchmark

How Caloundra compares to the Australia average

BenchmarkHardnessAppliance Risk
Caloundra≈ 0–59 mg/L🟢 None
Australia National Avg125 mg/L🟠 Moderate
Boronia Top Rated5 mg/L🟢 None

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What Makes Caloundra's Water Unique?

Local geology and source profile

Source: MixedTDS: 24.1 mg/LpH: 7

Caloundra's water supply comes from Unitywater, a major provider for the Sunshine Coast and Noosa regions in Queensland. The raw water is drawn from the Mary River system and its connected reservoirs. Unitywater manages the treatment and distribution processes, delivering safe drinking water to homes and businesses throughout the area. This bulk water is essential for the daily needs of residents and industries alike.

The Sunshine Coast watershed geology features Quaternary alluvial and colluvial deposits laid over Tertiary sedimentary formations. Notably, there are no significant limestone or dolomite rock layers in the vicinity. This geological makeup means the water naturally picks up very little dissolved calcium and magnesium, which are the primary minerals that cause water hardness. Unitywater's reports confirm this soft water characteristic.

Because Caloundra receives soft water, residents typically don't face issues with limescale buildup on faucets, showerheads, or inside appliances like kettles and water heaters. This can mean less frequent cleaning and potentially longer lifespans for household equipment. You'll find that soap and detergents lather up quickly, and the water feels gentle on skin and hair. While a water softener isn't usually needed, it's always wise to check official reports from Unitywater for any updates, particularly concerning the recently noted pH level outside the recommended guidelines.

Geology & Source: Quaternary alluvial deposits and Tertiary sediments; minimal limestone influence results in soft water

Other Queensland Water Reports

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is Caloundra's water safe to drink?
Yes. Caloundra's water meets all federal safety standards. The hardness is ≈ 0–59 mg/L (Soft), which is safe to drink. High hardness affects appliances and taste, but poses no health risk.
Do I need a water softener in Caloundra?
Caloundra's water is soft at ≈ 0–59 mg/L. A water softener is generally not necessary, though a carbon filter can improve taste and remove any remaining chlorine.
How does Caloundra compare to the Australia average?
The Australia national average is 125 mg/L. Caloundra (≈ 0–59 mg/L) is 95 mg/L below the national average. The softest major city is Boronia at just 5 mg/L.