Suitland-Silver Hill Water Hardness & Quality Report (2026)

Washington Suburban Sanitary Commission (WSSC Water) serves Suitland-Silver Hill in Prince George's County, Maryland, as part of its broad jurisdiction across Montgomery and Prince George's counties. Primary sources include the Potomac River (surface water) and Patuxent River, supplemented by the Potomac Aquifer (groundwater). Key treatment facilities are the Potomac Water Filtration Plant and Patuxent Water Filtration Plant, treating millions of gallons daily for over 1.8 million customers in the Washington, D.C. suburbs.

Water originates from the Potomac and Patuxent River watersheds, spanning the Piedmont and Coastal Plain physiographic provinces. Underlying geology features Cretaceous Potomac Group sands and gravels — including the Patapsco and Patuxent Formations — with Tertiary Arundel Clay and limestone outcrops that dissolve to impart minerals. The confined Potomac Aquifer provides groundwater recharged through upstream infiltration. This sedimentary matrix yields a hard supply as carbonate rocks release calcium and magnesium, contrasting with softer waters from Appalachian highlands.

Hard water leads to scale buildup in pipes, water heaters, dishwashers, and washing machines, reducing efficiency and lifespan. White deposits on fixtures and reduced soap lathering are common. Regular vinegar descaling, low-flow aerators, and magnetic conditioners help mitigate effects; a water softener is recommended for households with frequent scaling issues to protect appliances and improve cleaning. WSSC Water maintains pH between 7.0–8.5 for corrosion control with full compliance in lead and copper rule monitoring. PFAS levels are below EPA advisory limits, with granular activated carbon treatment addressing organics; treatment involves coagulation, sedimentation, filtration, chloramination, and fluoridation, with annual Consumer Confidence Reports detailing over 500,000 tests confirming safe drinking water.