What are TDS & pH level in Drinking water and how to measure them?

For its ability to dissolve and absorb molecules from a variety of substances, water is referred to as a universal solvent, and the total dissolved solids (TDS) level refers to dissolved particles in a given volume of water. Both organic and inorganic total dissolved solids may also be present. The water TDS level as well as which total dissolved solids are present, provide a picture of your overall water quality. The numerous types of total dissolved solids, how to measure them, and how to reduce total dissolved solids in your water are all covered in the sections below.

What is TDS (total dissolved solids) in water?

TDS is considered as dissolved particles such as metals, minerals, salts, and ions; TDS are essentially a measure of anything dissolved in water that isn't an H2O molecule. In water the material's particles are absorbed into the water, resulting in total dissolved solids. TDS in water can come from a variety of sources, including natural water springs, municipal water treatment chemicals, road and yard runoff, and even your house plumbing system.

Total dissolved solids sources

Total dissolved solids can arise from a variety of natural and man-made sources. Springs, lakes, rivers, plants, and soil are all-natural sources of TDS. When water flows underground in a natural spring, for example, it takes minerals from the rocks, such as calcium, magnesium, and potassium. When you buy a water purifier for home, the water from it also naturally has TDS in it

Total dissolved solids in water, on the other hand, can be caused by human activity. Agricultural runoff may contain pesticides and herbicides, lead from ancient plumbing lines may contain lead, and chlorine from water treatment plants may contain chlorine. Total dissolved solids are sometimes added to water on purpose, as bought mineral water from the supermarket may contain mineral additions.

How is TDS determined?

Total dissolved solids (TDS) are measured in milligrams per litre (mg/L), also known as parts per million, as a volume of water (ppm). TDS levels that are more than 1000 ppm are considered dangerous. A filtration system may not be able to filter TDS properly if the level surpasses 2000 ppm.

The most straightforward technique to determine total dissolved solids is to test your water with a TDS metre. A TDS metre reading of 100 ppm, for example, suggests that out of one million particles, 100 are dissolved ions and remaining are water molecules. This is an example of a low water TDS level. A TDS metre, on the other hand, does not show which forms of TDS are present, which is the most vital information to know about your water quality. If you want to find out what forms of TDS are present in your water, you can use a home water test kit or a lab water analysis.

How to Calculate TDS

If you have a reverse osmosis system, you may use the method below to compute the percent TDS rejection and evaluate the performance of your RO system.

Submerge the tester's probes in a glass of tap water to determine the TDS of raw supply water. Make a note of the outcomes.

Fill a glass with RO water (from the RO faucet) and submerge the tester's probes in the water to determine the TDS. Make a note of the outcomes.

What are the benefits of measuring total dissolved solids?

Total dissolved solids (TDS) can have an impact on the quality of your water, your health, your home plumbing system, and even everyday tasks like cooking and cleaning. Purchasing a water purifier for home is an ideal way to drink clean water. By testing your water for TDS, you can have a better understanding of the quality of your water and how it affects your daily life, allowing you to make an informed decision about how to address your water quality issue and install the most efficient filtration system for your home.

1. For taste and smell

Tap water with a high total dissolved solids (TDS) percentage can have a bitter flavour and odour. The higher the total dissolved solids concentration, the bitterer your water will be. To enhance the taste and smell of bitter tap water, both a reverse osmosis system and a ceramic water filter are recommended.

2. For good health

While high TDS water is not always harmful to drink, certain chemicals, such as lead and copper, can be harmful to one's health. Lead exposure, for example, can harm the brain and nerve system, while excessive copper levels can produce nausea. Heavy metals should be filtered using a reverse osmosis system or a water distiller.

3. For filter maintenance

Water filtration systems are an excellent way to reduce total dissolved solids, but they do wear out over time. TDS testing on a regular basis will ensure that your filter system is in good operating order and warn you when maintenance is required.

4. Plumbing and home appliances

Hard water has a high concentration of dissolved calcium and magnesium, which can lead to high TDS levels. When calcium and magnesium salts dissolve in water, they collect in pipes and form scales, requiring expensive pipe repairs and reducing the life of your appliances. To filter calcium and magnesium and minimise scale accumulation, a water softener is advised.