In an era where health and wellness are paramount, we’re constantly seeking ways to optimize our well-being. From organic foods to specialized diets, the choices are abundant. Yet, one of the most fundamental elements of our health often goes overlooked: the water we drink. Specifically, its pH level. At Desalytics, we’re dedicated to shedding light on the often-misunderstood world of drinking water pH and equipping you with the tools to ensure
your water is working for you.
The pH of Your Tap: What’s “Normal”?
The pH scale, ranging from 0 to 14, indicates how acidic or alkaline a substance is. Pure water, at a pH of 7, is considered neutral. However, the water that comes out of your tap is rarely pure. It’s influenced by its source (groundwater, surface water), the geological formations it passes through, and the treatment processes it undergoes.
For drinking water, the general consensus among health organizations is a recommended pH range of 6.5 to 8.5. This range strikes a balance:
- Below 6.5 (Acidic): Water with a low pH can be corrosive. This means it can dissolve metals like lead, copper, and zinc from your plumbing and fixtures, introducing them into your drinking supply. While short-term consumption of slightly acidic water might not cause immediate harm, prolonged exposure to heavy metals can lead to serious health issues, including neurological damage, kidney problems, and developmental delays in children. Beyond health, acidic water can cause your pipes to leak and appliances to degrade prematurely, leading to costly repairs. It might also
have a metallic or sour taste. - Above 8.5 (Alkaline/Basic): While some “alkaline water” products are marketed for their health benefits, excessively high pH in drinking water can also have drawbacks. Highly alkaline water can contribute to scaling and mineral buildup in pipes and appliances, reducing their efficiency and lifespan. It can also impart a “slippery” feel or a slightly bitter/soda-like taste, making it less palatable. While generally not as acutely harmful as highly acidic water, extreme alkalinity might interfere with the body’s natural pH balance or the absorption of certain minerals.
The Alkaline Water Debate: Facts vs. Fads
You’ve likely seen or heard about alkaline water and its purported health benefits, such as improved hydration, detoxification, and disease prevention. While some studies suggest certain benefits, particularly for individuals with specific digestive issues like acid reflux, it’s crucial to distinguish between naturally alkaline water (which often contains beneficial minerals) and artificially ionized alkaline water. The scientific community is still actively researching the long-term effects and widespread benefits of consistently consuming highly alkaline water.
At Desalytics, our focus is on balanced pH for overall water quality and safety, rather than promoting extreme alkalinity. We believe in providing you with the tools to understand your water’s natural properties so you can make informed decisions.
How Desalytics Empowers Your Water Choices
Knowing your water’s pH is the first step towards ensuring its safety and optimal taste. Desalytics offers user-friendly and highly accurate tools for homeowners to monitor their drinking water pH:
- Hach Pocket Pro+ pH Tester with Replaceable Sensor (SKU: 9532000): This compact and affordable device is perfect for quick and reliable pH readings at home. Its replaceable sensor ensures longevity and consistent accuracy, giving you peace of mind about the water you and your family consume.
- Hach Pocket Pro+ Multi 2 Tester for pH/Cond/TDS/Salinity (SKU: 9532800): For those who want a more comprehensive understanding of their water, this multiparameter tester provides pH, conductivity, TDS (Total Dissolved Solids), and salinity readings. It’s a powerful tool for truly knowing what’s in your glass.
If your pH readings fall outside the recommended 6.5-8.5 range, Desalytics can guide you on potential solutions. For slightly acidic water, methods like adding baking soda or using alkaline water filters (which add beneficial minerals) can gently raise the pH. For overly alkaline water, natural methods like lemon juice can slightly lower pH, or more advanced filtration systems might be considered.
While Desalytics focuses on measurement and analysis for residential customers, we also offer industrial solutions for pH neutralization that can be adapted for larger-scale community water treatment if needed. Invest in your health by understanding your water. With Desalytics’ reliable pH testing solutions, you can take control of your drinking water quality and ensure it’s truly fit for consumption.
Visit our Shopify page today to explore our full range of easy-to-use water testing equipment.
