Chico, CA

What’s Really in Chico’s Water?

PFAS, nitrates, and bacteria have been showing up across Butte County. We test and treat them so your family can drink, cook, and shower with confidence.
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Chico’s got charm, but not always clean water

From the tree-lined streets of Meriam Park to the cozy homes near Canyon Oaks, Chico’s known for sunshine, coffee shops, and that friendly small-town energy. But here’s the thing most of us don’t think about: our water isn’t always as clean as it looks.

If you’ve noticed white spots on your glasses, rust stains on your sinks, or clothes that never quite feel soft after washing, that’s your water talking. And it’s got a few stories to tell.

We’re Culligan of Chico
Your local team that helps families, renters, and businesses take control of what’s coming out of their taps.

Find Out What’s in Your Tap

Common water problems in Chico, CA

Let’s be real. Chico’s water has character. Unfortunately, not the good kind.

PFAS (“forever chemicals”)

PFAS sounds like a new energy drink, but it’s actually a family of man-made chemicals that never break down. They can linger in water, soil, and even the human body. They’ve been found in parts of Chico’s municipal system.

You can’t see or taste PFAS, but your filter can catch it. That’s where we come in. We’ll test your water and build a treatment plan that keeps your home safe and your mind at ease.

PFAS
Nitrates

 Nitrates

If you live west of town or toward Durham, you might already know about this one. Nitrates from agricultural runoff can sneak into wells and municipal lines. They’re especially unsafe for babies and kids.

That cloudy film on the bathtub, the one you scrub every week, might not come from nitrates themselves, but the same conditions that allow them often cause those headaches too.

 Hard Water

You know those crusty white spots on your showerhead? That’s hard water, packed with minerals that don’t stay in the pipes. It ruins plumbing, dries out skin, fades laundry, and makes your coffee maker cry for help.

A good softener stops all that. One fix, a lifetime of softer water (and fewer cleaning supplies under your sink).

Hard Water
Bacteria

 Bacteria (for well owners)

If you’re on a private well outside city limits, maybe near Hamilton City or north of Durham, bacteria can be a repeat guest you didn’t invite. We’ll test, sanitize, and re-test until you’re confident it’s gone for good.

See What’s in Your Water

How we fix Chico’s water problems

We don’t hand out cookie-cutter filters. Every home has its own quirks, even within Chico city limits. What we do is test, listen, and build a system that fits your water and your lifestyle.

Targeted filtration for PFAS, arsenic, and nitrates

Advanced systems that trap and remove contaminants invisible to the eye.

Water softening that works

No more crunchy towels or chalky glassware.

Reverse osmosis drinking systems

Pure, great-tasting water straight from your sink. Skip the bottled waste and the guesswork.

Maintenance that’s actually easy

We handle installs, salt deliveries, and tune-ups. You just enjoy better water.

Talk With a Local Water Expert

Why choose Culligan of Chico

We’re not just “the Culligan guys.” We’re your neighbors. We’ve been working in Chico homes for decades, and we know how different the water is in Durham compared to Amber Grove.

  • We know Chico water because we drink it too.
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  • Real people answer when you call.
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  • Friendly techs who actually show up on time.
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  • Systems designed around your water, not off-the-shelf kits.
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  • Eco-friendly options that cut bottled waste and save money long term.
william-clay-culligan-truck-lake-chico-ca

What your neighbors say

My system was not performing correctly. The service person came, disassembled the malfunctioning part, and reassembled it to perfection. Everything is as it should be. I’m pleased.

David Barnes

We couldn’t be more pleased. Clay came out to service our preexisting filter system when we decided it was worth it to have a whole house (and then some) system. Dennis, Carlos and Justin did the install. They worked hard and did an excellent job. It was a complicated install. Our water is spring water quality now. Thank you Culligan!!

Kira Simon

The soft water is keeping our pipes cleaner, our clothes softer, our dishwasher and clothes washer run smoother and last longer and showers make our skin feel so incredibly clean. Can never go back to Chico’s hard water!

Virgina S, Cohasset

Book My Free Water Test

Questions Chico Homeowners Ask About Their Water

What is PFAS and why should I care?2025-12-11T18:43:29+00:00

PFAS are industrial chemicals that don’t break down and can build up over time. They’ve been found in parts of Chico’s municipal supply. Testing tells you if you’re affected, and filtration fixes it.

Is hard water bad for my home?2025-11-18T09:10:21+00:00

It’s not harmful to drink, but it’s rough on plumbing, water heaters, and anything that touches water. Think soap scum, dull hair, or dishes that never sparkle.

I’m on city water. Do I really need a test?2025-11-18T09:10:53+00:00

Even city water can pick up contaminants from pipes or treatment residue. A free test takes 30 minutes and gives you peace of mind.

I’m on a well outside town. What should I test for?2025-11-18T09:11:23+00:00

Start with hardness, bacteria, iron, and nitrates. If your area’s had PFAS detections, we’ll include that too.

How long does the visit take?2025-11-18T09:11:48+00:00

Usually about 30-45 minutes. You’ll get your results right away and we’ll talk through options with no pressure or jargon.

Ready to see what’s in your water?

From PFAS to hard water, Chico homes face real challenges. Let’s test your water for free, explain your results, and make a plan that protects your home and family.

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By |2025-11-27T11:48:43+00:00November 14, 2025|Comments Off on Chico, CA

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