Understanding Water Quality: What Do the Numbers Mean?

Received your water quality test results but confused by all the numbers? This guide will help you understand what each parameter means and why it matters. ## Key Water Quality Parameters ### pH (6.5 - 8.5) - Measures acidity or alkalinity - Affects taste and corrosion - Too low: Corrosive, metallic taste - Too high: Bitter taste, scale formation ### TDS - Total Dissolved Solids (< 500 mg/L) - Minerals, salts, metals in water - Affects taste and appearance - High levels may indicate contamination ### Hardness (< 120 mg/L) - Calcium and magnesium content - Causes scale buildup - Affects soap effectiveness ### Chlorine (0.5 - 4 mg/L) - Disinfectant in municipal water - Safe but affects taste - Can be removed with carbon filters ### Bacteria (0 CFU/mL) - E. coli and coliform bacteria - Any detection requires immediate action - Indicates contamination ### Nitrates (< 10 mg/L) - From fertilizers and waste - Dangerous for infants - Common in agricultural areas ### Heavy Metals - Lead: < 0.015 mg/L - Arsenic: < 0.01 mg/L - Mercury: < 0.002 mg/L - Harmful at any level ## What to Do With Your Results ### If Results Are Normal: - Continue regular testing - Maintain filtration systems - Monitor for changes ### If Results Show Problems: 1. Stop drinking the water 2. Identify the source 3. Install appropriate treatment 4. Retest after treatment ### Common Solutions: - pH adjustment: Neutralizing filters - High TDS: Reverse osmosis - Hardness: Water softener - Bacteria: UV sterilization or chlorination - Heavy metals: Specialized filters ## Testing Frequency - Private wells: Every 6-12 months - Boreholes: Annually - After repairs or flooding: Immediately - If taste/odor changes: Immediately Get professional water testing and treatment recommendations from Water Nest!