Digital TDS Meter Testing Kit with Temperature Meter

 A high TDS level means you have an abundance of dissolved solids in your water, which typically includes minerals. Over time, the constant presence of these minerals in your water can lead to scale buildup in your pipes and appliances which shortens their lifespan and effectiveness. By knowing your TDS level, you can determine whether you need something to combat this issue, like a Salt-Free Water Conditioner or a water softener for, especially hard water.

Salt-Free Water Conditioners inhibit scale buildup by transforming dissolved hard minerals into harmless, microscopic crystals that don’t accumulate over time. Salt-Free Water Conditioners can protect pipes and plumbing, decrease spots and stains on dishes and shower doors, increase the life of brighter clothing, and more, without wasting salt or water. Keep in mind that a Salt-Free Water Conditioner is different from a water filter. The ultimate goal of a water filter is not to remove all solids in the water.

What does TDS not measure?

A TDS meter does not measure contaminants. It will not tell you if your water is healthy. The TDS meter reading simply refers to the amount of total dissolved solids in your water, it will not tell you what those solids actually are and if they are harmful for your health.

For example, you could have a high TDS meter reading but no harmful contaminants in your water. Some healthy minerals like potassium, magnesium, and calcium can actually cause your TDS meter to spike. So, any water filter with a remineralizer could cause a high reading on your TDS meter, even though the remineralizer is adding good minerals that you want.

On the other hand, you could have a low TDS level even if several harmful contaminants are present in your drinking water. Your water could have heavy metals like lead, or other contaminants like pesticides, pharmaceuticals, or hexavalent chromium. The TDS meter will not pick these contaminants up.

This is why you shouldn’t rely on a TDS meter to determine your water quality. You need to understand not just how many dissolved solids are in your water, but what those solids are and if they’re harmful for your health.