Water Parameters

The PH measures the concentration of hydrogen ions in the water. It ranges from 1 to 14, a value under 7 represents the acid character of the water, and a value over 7 represents alkaline water. Drinkable water has to have a PH between 6, 5 and 8, 5. Acid waters have the tendency to corrode pipes and taps, while waters with basic character have an unpleasant, bitter taste.

The sum of dissolved solids (TDS) represents 70% of the electric conductivity of water, because of the content in the dissolved solids. A high TDS value could lead to a depreciation of the taste in water. Also strongly mineralized water could deteriorate the water distribution network.

Turbidity measures the extent of light propagation and indicates the presence of impurities (soil, debris, small bits of organic and inorganic materials). A turbidity higher than 5 is unacceptable, especially for esthetic reasons. A high turbidity level indicates a possible bacterial contamination.

The water hardness is due to the content of calcium and magnesium salts which precipitate when water is being heated. This is why storing bottled water at high temperatures is not indicated. The water with a medium level of hardness is the most indicated for domestic use. Hard water turns clothes yellow, it develops deposits on the pipes, and vegetables boiled in hard water get hard, while low hardness water causes cardiovascular problems.