Citrus Heights Water Hardness & Quality Report (2026)

Citrus Heights Water District (CHWD) serves approximately 30,000 residents in Citrus Heights, Sacramento County, California. The utility blends 69% treated surface water purchased from San Juan Water District (SJWD) with 31% local groundwater from district wells. SJWD treats surface water diverted from Folsom Lake on the American River using coagulation, filtration, and disinfection. CHWD conducts additional testing for chlorine residual, turbidity, color, odor, and acidity. The annual Consumer Confidence Report, published by SJWD, covers CHWD and neighboring districts including Fair Oaks and Orange Vale.

The supply originates from the American River watershed in the Sierra Nevada, feeding Folsom Lake reservoir, and local groundwater in the Sacramento Valley floor. Surface water reflects Sierra granite and metamorphic geology with naturally low mineralization, while groundwater interacts with Quaternary alluvial deposits of sand, gravel, and clay in the unconfined Central Valley aquifer. Source water assessments identify vulnerability to urban activities like gas stations and dry cleaners near wells. This geology yields a soft supply overall due to reservoir dilution and minimal rock-water interaction time in the high-volume river system.

Soft water causes minimal scale buildup, extending appliance life without frequent maintenance. Water heaters, dishwashers, and coffee makers experience little limescale, and soap lathers efficiently. No softener is needed or recommended; instead, monitor for corrosion risks from low mineral content and use phosphate inhibitors if older pipes show wear. The 2024 Consumer Confidence Report confirms no PFAS detections in CHWD groundwater. Naturally occurring lithium was detected at 13–18 μg/L (averaging 15 μg/L) in Citrus Heights wells, though no health standard applies. Water meets all federal and state standards; lead/copper rule compliance is confirmed.