What is TDS (Total Dissolved Solids)?
Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) is an important parameter that expresses the amount of minerals and ions dissolved in water. The unit of TDS is expressed as mg/L or ppm (Parts Per Million). One of the main factors affecting the taste of water is the amount of dissolved substances in water. For example, substances such as salt, lime, iron and aluminum dissolve in water and increase the TDS value. As the amount of dissolved substances increases, the natural taste of water is negatively affected.
In nature, waters may have different TDS values depending on their sources. The upper TDS limit for freshwater sources is 1500 mg/L. Waters with a TDS value of 1000 ~ 5000 mg/L are generally called "Bitter Water", while waters with a TDS value of 5000 ~ 15000 mg/L are defined as "Very Bitter Water" and waters with higher TDS concentrations are defined as "Salt Water".
TDS Measurement: As the amount of ionic substances in water increases, the electrical conductivity of the water also increases. Therefore, the TDS value can be determined by measuring the electrical conductivity of the water. Pocket-sized TDS meters measure the conductivity of the water and calculate the corresponding TDS value. For example, a conductivity value of 1 μS/cm corresponds to approximately 0.5 mg/L TDS.
Water Quality Classification Table:
TDS Value (mg/L) | Types of Water | Class |
---|---|---|
0 - 17 | soft water | 1st class water (spring water) |
17 - 60 | slightly hard water | |
60 - 120 | medium hard water | Class 2 water (mains water) |
120 - 180 | hard water | Class 3 water (attention!) |
180 - 300 | very hard water | Class 4 water (non-drinkable) |
300 - 1000 | non potable water | |
1000 - 5000 | Bitter water | |
5000 - 15000 | very brackish water | |
15000 - 30000 | Saltwater | |
30000 and above | sea water |
With a quality TDS meter, you can easily measure the cleanliness of drinking water, the quality, hardness and temperature of aquarium water. The device, which is factory calibrated to 342 ppm, can be recalibrated with calibration fluids. You can easily carry it with you thanks to its lightweight and compact design.
Technicial Specifications: