Chicoutimi Water Hardness & Quality Report (2026)
Water Hardness
~0–59 mg/L
Softestimated · not lab-verified
Source
river
pH Level
7.1
neutral = 7.0
Lead
0.004 mg/L
✓ Below action level
TDS
72.5 mg/L
Est. Daily Cost
$0.08
energy & soap waste
Source: Health Canada Water Quality · Updated 2026
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 Chicoutimi, your appliances are currently losing 4% efficiency due to mineral buildup.
| Appliance | In Chicoutimi | Soft Water City | Efficiency 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 Chicoutimi compares to its nearest neighbours
| City | Hardness | Mineralization | Risk |
|---|---|---|---|
| ▶ Chicoutimi, Quebec | ≈ 0–59 mg/L | Low | 🟢 Soft |
| Saguenay, Quebec | ≈ 0–60 mg/L | Low | 🟢 Soft |
| Jonquière, Quebec | ≈ 60–120 mg/L | Medium | 🟡 Moderately Hard |
| Alma, Quebec | ≈ 0–60 mg/L | Low | 🟢 Soft |
| Sainte-Monique, Quebec | ≈ 120–179 mg/L | Medium | 🟠 Hard |
National Benchmark
How Chicoutimi compares to the Canada average
| Benchmark | Hardness | Appliance Risk |
|---|---|---|
| ▶ Chicoutimi | ≈ 0–59 mg/L | 🟢 None |
| Canada National Avg | 140 mg/L | 🟠 Moderate |
| Vancouver Top Rated | 3 mg/L | 🟢 None |
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What Makes Chicoutimi's Water Unique?
Local geology and source profile
Chicoutimi’s water originates from the Rivière Saguenay and the Lac Saint-Jean watershed, managed by Ville de Saguenay. The exact treatment plants and specific intake points within this vast regional watershed were not detailed in the available information. Residents seeking precise details about their water’s journey from source to tap, including treatment processes and infrastructure, are encouraged to contact Ville de Saguenay directly.
This water flows from the Precambrian Laurentian Shield, a region dominated by ancient igneous and metamorphic rocks. As the water drains this geological landscape, it picks up very few dissolved minerals, resulting in exceptionally soft water. The specific geological formations and aquifer characteristics contributing to this softness were not detailed, but the broad classification of the Laurentian Shield is key to understanding the water's mineral content.
Because the water is extremely soft, homeowners might notice that soaps and detergents lather more easily. You may also find that it doesn't leave behind the tell-tale white residue or scale buildup common in harder water areas, which is good news for your pipes and appliances. If you're accustomed to the taste of harder water, Chicoutimi's supply might taste different, perhaps even a bit "flat" to some. No specific safety concerns were noted in the provided data.
Geology & Source: Precambrian Laurentian Shield; igneous and metamorphic rocks produce very soft water
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