Matteson Water Hardness & Quality Report (2026)

The Village of Matteson Water Utility serves over 19,000 residents in Matteson, Illinois, a suburb situated in southern Cook County on the south side of the Chicago metropolitan area. Water is drawn exclusively from deep groundwater wells tapping into local aquifers; there are no named treatment plants and no surface water purchases. Treatment is limited to chlorine disinfection applied to untreated groundwater before distribution through the municipal network. Residents can reach the utility at 708-748-1411 or at 4900 Village Commons, Matteson, IL 60443 for service details.

Matteson's supply originates from the glacial aquifer system and underlying bedrock in the Chicago region, influenced by the ancient Lake Chicago basin. Key formations include Silurian-age dolomite and Devonian limestone — part of the Niagaran dolomite series — which dominate the subsurface geology beneath Cook County. These carbonate rocks release calcium and magnesium as groundwater percolates through fractures and porous sands, while overlying glacial till from Pleistocene ice sheets contributes further dissolved minerals, preserving the hard mineralised profile in confined aquifers.

Very hard water promotes significant scale buildup in pipes, water heaters, kettles, and dishwasher components, reducing efficiency and shortening appliance lifespan. Faucet aerators, showerheads, and washing machines suffer most from mineral deposits, causing clogs and higher energy costs. Regular vinegar descaling, installing aerator screens, and flushing heaters help mitigate effects. A water softener is strongly recommended. Water quality scores a B grade — meeting EPA legal limits but flagging contaminants such as chromium-6, bromodichloromethane, chloroform, and trihalomethanes above health advocacy guidelines; no EPA violations are noted, and treatment is chlorine disinfection only.