Van Nuys Water Hardness & Quality Report (2026)

The Los Angeles Department of Water and Power (LADWP) serves Van Nuys in the San Fernando Valley area of Los Angeles County, California. Water sources include local groundwater from the San Fernando Valley Groundwater Basin, imported surface water via the Los Angeles Aqueduct from Owens Valley reservoirs, and supplies from the Colorado River Aqueduct. Treatment occurs at facilities including the Jensen and Griffith Park plants, where extensive filtration, disinfection, and blending processes ensure the supply meets all federal and state water quality standards.

The San Fernando Valley Groundwater Basin features alluvial aquifers in unconsolidated Quaternary sediments derived from surrounding mountains, overlying carbonate bedrock including limestone and dolomite from Miocene-Pliocene marine incursions in the Transverse Ranges foreland basin. Natural mineral dissolution from these carbonate and evaporitic formations imparts a hard character to local groundwater. Imported surface waters from the granitic Sierra Nevada watershed add moderate mineralization, but the basin geology dominates overall hardness.

Hard water in Van Nuys leads to scale buildup in pipes, water heaters, dishwashers, and washing machines, reducing efficiency and lifespan. Dry skin, soap scum, and spotted dishes are common. Regular maintenance including descaling appliances, using vinegar rinses, and installing a water softener is recommended to protect plumbing and appliances. LADWP water meets all federal and state standards and is slightly alkaline (pH 7.5–8.5), with compliance for lead and copper via corrosion control. No specific PFAS exceedances noted in recent reports; primary treatment includes chlorination, fluoridation, and ammonia for residuals.