Water Contaminant Spotlight: Total Dissolved Solids

Water Contaminant Spotlight: Total Dissolved Solids

Updated: September 8, 2020 April 18, 2018

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Updated: September 8, 2020

Published: April 18, 2018

As water experts, we at Culligan strive not only to identify what is in our customers’ water, but to also educate them on what the outcome of those tests means for their household. With the spring season upon us, April showers could increase the level of total dissolved solids (TDS) in water. This month, we’re putting a spotlight on total dissolved solids to keep you better informed on the water contaminant.

What Are TDS?

So, what are total dissolved solids, anyways? Simply put, total dissolved solids include inorganic salts and organic matter that has dissolved in your water. The specific types of TDS mainly include calcium, magnesium, potassium, sodium, bicarbonates, chlorides, iron, lead and sulfates. If you’re interested in learning more about these specific contaminants, you can find information under the Common Water Contaminants section of our site.

Why You Should Care About Total Dissolved Solids

Keeping an eye on the level of total dissolved solids in your water is important. There is a certain amount of TDS in your water that naturally happens when it filters through soil. But when a storm hits or sewage contamination occurs, that’s when the level of dissolved solids begins to rise to an unnatural, potentially harmful level. Once this happens, the effects of dissolved solids in water can possibly result in plumbing issues, water appliance malfunction and create bitter-tasting drinking water; and if ingested, might negatively impact your health and well-being. We go into greater detail about the impact of TDS and what you should look for on our dedicated Total Dissolved Solids page.

Testing The Level Of Total Dissolved Solids

When water is tested, the concentration of TDS is the calculated sum of the positively charged compounds (cations) and negatively charged compounds (anions). This initial indicator test determines the general quality of water; however, further considerations need to be taken based on different characteristics the water expresses. Water testing may seem like a complex process, and you might not know where to start.

That’s where Culligan comes in. We can conduct the proper test on your water to determine the TDS levels in your water, and then provide the fitting solution to remove any unnatural level of total dissolved solids in your water. Contact us today to see how we can help with your water needs.