What should I record first?
Identify the sample location and whether it is untreated, treated, hot or cold water. Keep the result and units. A supplier report is useful context but is not a guaranteed hardness reading at every household tap.
What changes the recommendation?
Compare incoming hardness with treated hardness when checking a softener. A TDS reading does not isolate calcium and magnesium hardness, and residue can have more than one cause. The provider should explain the method used for the equipment decision.
What should the service scope include?
Use the measured value with household use, flow, resin capacity and regeneration assumptions. Ask how startup and future checks will show that the system is doing its stated job. Do not size solely by bedrooms or a regional hardness estimate.
Apply the correct source evidence
Confirm the supplier on the property water bill. Port St. Lucie’s public report applies to its Utility Systems customers; a mailing address does not prove supplier, and a private well needs its own testing. See the Port St. Lucie source guide before applying a report or selecting a treatment goal.
Review the 2025 Water Quality Report for the appropriate source boundary. Source review: October 4, 2026. This guide provides decision questions; equipment selection and any safety-related interpretation require appropriate measurements and qualified advice.
Continue with the related decision
Softener installation · All solutions · Local Learn guide · Water check