Start with the symptom
Each guide explains the cause, what the DMV's utilities have to do with it, what fixes it and, just as important, what does not.
Hard Water Stains and ScaleWhite or chalky buildup on faucets, showerheads and around drains.Dry Skin and Hair from Hard, Chlorinated WaterTight, itchy skin right after showering.Chlorine and Chloramine Taste and SmellA pool or bleach smell from the tap, strongest in spring.PFAS in Tap WaterNo taste, smell or color; PFAS can only be found by lab testing.Lead in Older Home PlumbingHome built before 1960 in DC, Arlington, Alexandria, Takoma Park or Hyattsville.Water Heater and Appliance Scale DamageTank water heater that rumbles, pops or takes longer to recover.
Whole-home softening, chloramine filtration and reverse osmosis for $2,499 installed.
One firm price, equipment with model numbers, and a licensed plumber to install it. No visit until install day.