Show Low Water Hardness & Quality Report (2026)

The City of Show Low Water Division supplies water to about 12,000 people in Navajo County, Arizona, primarily within the city and surrounding White Mountains areas. This high-elevation community, sitting around 6,500 feet, gets its water exclusively from groundwater wells that tap into the Coconino Aquifer. Key facilities include several production wells, such as the Show Low Wells, and a dedicated water treatment plant. Unlike some communities, Show Low doesn't rely on surface water from reservoirs or rivers; instead, it manages a system of storage tanks for distribution to its residential, commercial, and municipal customers.

The groundwater originates in the Colorado Plateau physiographic province, within the larger Little Colorado River Basin. Recharge for the aquifer comes from snowmelt and rainfall that filters down through the fractured Mogollon Rim escarpment. This water then percolates into the Coconino and Kaibab Formations, which are Paleozoic rock layers containing dolomitic members of the Supai Group. The geology here, characterized by karst terrain and faulted Paleozoic carbonates, means the water spends a long time in contact with mineral-rich bedrock, dissolving calcium and magnesium and resulting in a naturally hard water supply.

Living with hard water in Show Low means you'll likely notice scale buildup in appliances like water heaters, dishwashers, and washing machines, which can shorten their lifespan and reduce efficiency. You might also find that soap doesn't lather as easily and that glassware and fixtures tend to spot after drying. To combat these issues, homeowners often opt for a water softener, which can significantly improve cleaning and extend the life of your appliances. Regular maintenance, such as deliming appliances annually or using vinegar to clean faucets, can also help manage scale. Show Low's water quality reports confirm that the drinking water meets EPA standards for safety, including pH, lead, and copper, with no PFAS detections above limits.