Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) in Water: Understanding and Addressing This Common Contaminant
What are Total Dissolved Solids (TDS)? Learn about what they are, how they get into your water, and how Kinetico can help remove them.
What are Total Dissolved Solids (TDS)?
Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) refers to the combined content of all inorganic and organic substances contained in a liquid. These solids are present in molecular, ionized, or micro-granular suspended form. Common components of TDS include minerals, salts, and metals, which originate from both natural sources and human activities.
Health Impacts of TDS
While not all TDS are harmful, elevated levels can indicate the presence of potentially harmful contaminants. High TDS levels can affect the taste, odor, and appearance of drinking water, and in some cases, contribute to health issues. For instance, excessive salts can cause dehydration and other health problems, especially for individuals on sodium-restricted diets.
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Signs of High TDS in Your Water
High TDS levels are often indicated by:
- Unpleasant Taste: A salty, bitter, or metallic taste in your water
- Scale Buildup: Deposits on faucets, fixtures, and appliances
- Cloudiness: Water that appears cloudy or has visible particles
Sources of TDS in Water
TDS can originate from various sources, including:
- Natural Sources: Minerals from rocks and soil that dissolve into groundwater
- Agricultural Runoff: Fertilizers, pesticides, and herbicides that leach into water supplies
- Industrial Waste: Discharges from manufacturing processes
- Municipal Runoff: Urban runoff containing salts, chemicals, and other pollutants
Long-Term Trends and Concerns
Recent trends indicate an increase in TDS levels in many water sources due to factors such as increased agricultural activities, urban development, and industrial pollution. This highlights the importance of regular monitoring and advanced water treatment solutions to improve water quality.
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Interesting Facts About TDS
- Conductivity: TDS levels can be measured by testing the water's electrical conductivity, as dissolved salts and minerals increase conductivity.
- Taste Threshold: Water with TDS levels above 1000 ppm is generally considered undrinkable due to its poor taste.
- Environmental Impact: High TDS levels can negatively impact aquatic life by altering water chemistry and affecting species that are sensitive to changes in their environment.
Treatment Options for Reducing TDS
To improve your water’s quality and ensure it is pleasant to use, consider the following treatment options:
- Kinetico Reverse Osmosis Systems: Our RO systems, including the K5 Drinking Water Station®, are highly effective in significantly reducing TDS levels. The K5 system achieves a high rejection rate for dissolved solids like sodium chloride and calcium carbonate, with a rejection rate of 96.4% when using either the QuickFlo storage tank or the Air Charge storage tank. This means that the system can effectively lower TDS levels, although the exact reduction depends on the initial water quality. For a more economical option, the A200 Drinking Water System also does a great job of reducing TDS levels.
- Distillation: This method involves boiling water and condensing the steam to reduce dissolved solids.
Why Choose Kinetico?
At Kinetico, we specialize in providing advanced water treatment solutions tailored to your needs. Our non-electric, efficient, and reliable systems are designed to help you achieve the highest water quality standards. With Kinetico, you can trust that your water will be clean, clear, and great-tasting.
Conclusion
Managing Total Dissolved Solids in your water is crucial for health, household maintenance and taste. By identifying and treating high TDS levels, you can protect your family's health and ensure the longevity of your plumbing and appliances. Reducing TDS could also improve the taste of your water, depending on what makes up the TDS. Trust Kinetico to provide the high-quality water treatment solutions you need for a safer, cleaner home.
For more information on how to manage Total Dissolved Solids in your water, contact Kinetico today. Get your water tested for TDS by your authorized, independent Kinetico Dealer. TDS is a good indication of the quality of your water, and the test is quick and easy with immediate results. Our experts are here to help you find the perfect solution for your unique water challenges.
Schedule A Free Water Test Today To Manage TDS In Your Water Supply.