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Chicoutimi Water Hardness & Quality Report (2026)

Water Hardness

soft

~0–59 mg/L

Soft

estimated · 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

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

ApplianceIn ChicoutimiSoft 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 Chicoutimi compares to its nearest neighbours

CityHardnessMineralizationRisk
Chicoutimi, Quebec≈ 0–59 mg/LLow🟢 Soft
Saguenay, Quebec≈ 0–60 mg/LLow🟢 Soft
Jonquière, Quebec≈ 60–120 mg/LMedium🟡 Moderately Hard
Alma, Quebec≈ 0–60 mg/LLow🟢 Soft
Sainte-Monique, Quebec≈ 120–179 mg/LMedium🟠 Hard

National Benchmark

How Chicoutimi compares to the Canada average

BenchmarkHardnessAppliance Risk
Chicoutimi≈ 0–59 mg/L🟢 None
Canada National Avg140 mg/L🟠 Moderate
Vancouver Top Rated3 mg/L🟢 None

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What Makes Chicoutimi's Water Unique?

Local geology and source profile

Source: RiverTDS: 72.5 mg/LpH: 7.1

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

Other Quebec Water Reports

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is Chicoutimi's water safe to drink?
Yes. Chicoutimi'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 Chicoutimi?
Chicoutimi'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 Chicoutimi compare to the Canada average?
The Canada national average is 140 mg/L. Chicoutimi (≈ 0–59 mg/L) is 110 mg/L below the national average. The softest major city is Vancouver at just 3 mg/L.