Westwood Plateau Water Hardness & Quality Report (2026)

The water serving Westwood Plateau comes from the Greater Vancouver Water District, part of the Metro Vancouver regional utility. Its primary sources are the Capilano Reservoir, Seymour Reservoir, and Coquitlam Lake Reservoir, all located in the Coast Mountains. Water undergoes treatment at facilities such as the Capilano River Treatment Plant and the Seymour-Capilano Filtration Plant. This supply, drawn from watersheds within the Fraser River Basin, serves millions of residents across the Lower Mainland, with Westwood Plateau receiving its share through local distribution networks.

Geologically, the water originates from the Coast Mountains, specifically the Pacific Ranges, characterized by steep granitic terrain. The bedrock is composed of intrusive granodiorites and quartz diorites belonging to the Coast Plutonic Complex, dating back to the Jurassic and Cretaceous periods. These igneous rocks, combined with limited carbonate formations and thin glacial till, result in very soft water with a naturally low mineral content. Old-growth forests and watershed protection efforts further help preserve this pristine quality.

Because the water is very soft, mineral buildup that typically causes scale in appliances like kettles, dishwashers, and water heaters is minimal. Homeowners will notice that soap lathers easily, potentially requiring less detergent for laundry and cleaning. However, the lack of a protective mineral scale on the inside of pipes could lead to increased corrosion in older galvanized systems, so monitoring for leaks is advised. A water softener isn't necessary; instead, if corrosion becomes a concern, consider using corrosion inhibitors. The water's pH typically ranges between 7.2 and 7.8, and Metro Vancouver consistently meets stringent Health Canada guidelines for quality and safety.