If you’re wondering what the ideal, TDS level of your drinking water quality should be, you’re not alone. Many people are concerned about the total dissolved solids (TDS) in their water, especially if they use a reverse osmosis (RO) system or other types of water filtration. water filter. Knowing the optimal TDS level for your water supply drinking water is crucial for ensuring that you and your family are consuming safe and healthy water. Using an RO filter to reduce TDS in water
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore what TDS is, what the ideal TDS level for drinking water is, and how to achieve it using an RO water purifier or other methods. We’ll also discuss the potential health effects of high and low TDS levels and provide tips for maintaining the perfect TDS balance in your water.
Total Dissolved Solids In Water
What is TDS?
Total dissolved solids (TDS) refers to the total concentration of dissolved substances in water, including minerals, salts, metals, cations, anions, and other particles. These substances can come from natural sources like rocks, soil, and air, as well as from human activities like agriculture, industry, and water treatment processes.
TDS is typically measured in parts per million (ppm) or milligrams per liter (mg/L). A TDS meter is a handy tool that can be used to measure the level of TDS TDS level of your water quickly and accurately.
Some common substances that contribute to TDS in water include:
- Calcium and magnesium (hardness minerals)
- Sodium and potassium
- Chlorides, sulfates, and nitrates
- Heavy metals like lead, copper, and arsenic
- Organic compounds and microorganisms
What is the Ideal TDS Level for Drinking Water?
The ideal TDS level for drinking water is generally considered to be between 50 and 150 ppm. Water with a TDS level in this range is considered to have an excellent palatability quotient and is safe for consumption.
Here’s a table that summarizes the palatability and acceptability of different TDS levels in drinking water:
| TDS Level (ppm) | Palatability | Acceptability |
|---|---|---|
| <50 | Excellent | Acceptable |
| 50-150 | Excellent | Ideal |
| 150-250 | Good | Acceptable |
| 250-300 | Fair | Acceptable |
| 300-500 | Poor | Fairly Acceptable |
| 500-900 | Unacceptable | Less Acceptable |
| 900-1200 | Unacceptable | Least Acceptable |
| >1200 | Unacceptable | Not Acceptable |
However, it’s important to note that the acceptable TDS level can vary depending on the specific minerals and substances present in the water. For example, water with a high concentration of calcium and magnesium may be considered hard water, which can lead to scale buildup in pipes and appliances, as well as dry skin and hair.
According to the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS), the upper limit of TDS levels in water is 500 ppm. The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends a TDS level of 300 ppm or less for optimal taste and health benefits.
How to Measure TDS in Water
Measuring the TDS level of your water is a simple process that can be done using a TDS meter. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to measure TDS in your water:
- Obtain a reliable TDS meter from a reputable supplier. Make sure to calibrate the meter according to the manufacturer’s instructions before use.
- Collect a sample of your water in a clean glass or container. Make sure the sample is at room temperature for accurate results.
- Turn on the TDS meter and immerse the electrode or sensor into the water sample. Stir gently to ensure even distribution of the dissolved solids.
- Wait for a few seconds until the meter stabilizes and displays a reading. The reading will typically be in ppm or mg/L.
- Record the TDS level in the water TDS level and compare it to the ideal range of 50-150 ppm. If the level is higher or lower than desired, consider the various methods for adjusting the TDS level (discussed in the next section).
It’s a good practice to regularly measure the TDS level of your water, especially if you notice changes in taste, odor, or appearance. It’s advised to regularly check the TDS Keeping track of your water’s TDS can help you identify potential issues and take corrective actions promptly.
How to Achieve the Ideal TDS Level
If your drinking water has a high TDS level, there are several ways to reduce it and achieve the ideal range:
1. Use an RO Water Purifier
An RO water purifier is one of the most effective ways to reduce the TDS level of your water. RO systems use a semipermeable membrane to remove dissolved solids, as well as other contaminants like bacteria, viruses, and chemicals.
When choosing an RO water purifier, look for one with a TDS controller. This feature allows you to adjust the TDS level of the purified water to your desired level, ensuring that you get the perfect balance of minerals and purity.
Some top-rated RO water purifiers with TDS controllers include:
- Kent Grand Plus
- HUL Pureit Copper+
- Aquaguard Royale
- Eureka Forbes Aquasure
2. Use a Water Softener
If your water has a high concentration of calcium and magnesium (hardness minerals), a water softener can help reduce the hardness and TDS level. Water softeners work by exchanging the calcium and magnesium ions with sodium or potassium ions, which are less likely to cause scale buildup and other issues.
Water softeners are particularly useful in areas with hard water, as they can extend the life of your plumbing and appliances, as well as improve the lathering and cleaning properties of your water.
3. Use Distillation or Deionization
Distillation and deionization are two other methods for reducing the TDS level of water. Distillation involves boiling the water and collecting the pure water vapor, leaving behind the dissolved solids and other impurities. Deionization, on the other hand, uses ion-exchange resins to remove dissolved ions from the water, resulting in ultra-pure water with a very low TDS level.
While these methods can be effective for reducing TDS, they can also be more time-consuming, energy-intensive, and costly than using an RO system or water softener. Additionally, distilled and deionized water may lack essential minerals and have a flat taste, making them less suitable for everyday drinking. To improve this, introducing mineral water which retains beneficial minerals can enhance taste and nutrition.
Is Low TDS Water Bad for You?
While a high TDS level can be a concern, low TDS water is not necessarily bad for your health. In fact, some studies suggest that drinking water with a low TDS level may be beneficial for people with certain health conditions, such as cardiovascular disease, as it can help reduce the intake of excess minerals and salts.
However, water with a very low TDS level (less than 50 ppm) may lack essential minerals like calcium, magnesium, and potassium, which are important for various bodily functions. Drinking water with insufficient minerals over a long period may lead to mineral deficiencies and associated health issues.
Moreover, water with extremely low TDS levels may have an unpleasant taste and mouthfeel, as the absence of dissolved solids can make the water feel “flat” or “empty.”
Therefore, it’s important to find a balance and aim for water with a moderate TDS level (50-150 ppm) that still contains some beneficial minerals while removing harmful contaminants.
Conclusion
The ideal TDS level for drinking water is between 50 and 150 ppm, although the acceptable range can vary depending on the specific substances present in the water. Regularly measuring your water’s TDS using a TDS meter and comparing it to the ideal range is a good practice for ensuring that you and your family are consuming safe and healthy water.
If your water has a high TDS level, using an RO water purifier with a TDS controller is one of the most effective ways to reduce it. Water softeners, distillation, and deionization are other methods for reducing TDS, but they may have some drawbacks compared to RO systems.
Remember, while a high level of TDS TDS level can be a concern, low TDS water is not necessarily bad for your health. The key is to find a balance and ensure that your water is safe, palatable, and contains essential minerals for optimal hydration and wellness.
By understanding the importance of TDS in drinking water and taking steps to maintain the ideal TDS level, you can enjoy the numerous benefits of clean, healthy water and protect your family from potential water-related issues.
