At Cannon Water Technology, Inc., we supply a full range of digital TDS testers, TDS monitoring devices, and conductivity meters from trusted brands such as Myron L, Advantage Controls, and HM Digital. All models are backed by expert support and fast shipping, making it easier for you to select the right TDS measurement solution for your application.
What is TDS in Water?
TDS stands for Total Dissolved Solids and refers to the combined concentration of all dissolved substances in water. When water comes into contact with rocks, soil, vegetation, or man-made sources, it can dissolve various minerals, salts, metals, organic compounds, and other substances. These dissolved substances contribute to the TDS level of the water.
The dissolved solids constituents are mainly distinguished as cations and anions. It comprises both organic and inorganic constituents. Of these, cations are positively charged ions and anions are negatively charged ions. Dissolved solids may comprise the following types of anions and cations:
- Magnesium
- Calcium
- Sodium
- Potassium
- Sulfates
- Bicarbonates
- Chlorides
How is TDS Measured?
TDS is measured using any of the following methods:
- Conductivity: As indicated before, most organic and inorganic constituents in water are identified as cations or anions. These positive or negatively charged ions enable water to conduct electric currents. The conductivity of water may increase or decrease based on the amount of dissolved solids. These conductivity tests are performed using TDS conductivity testers. These TDS water tester always measure the conductivity of water and multiply it with a conversion factor.
- Gravimetric Analysis: This type of measurement is performed in laboratory settings. In this method, the water is evaporated and the remaining residual mass is dried on any type of evaporating dish. This dried mass is then measured through a weighing and filtering process.
Why Should You Measure TDS?
Measuring the Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) in water is vital to understanding its quality and ensuring it’s safe for consumption or use. Here’s why:
- Monitor Water Quality: A TDS meter for water helps you check the concentration of dissolved salts, minerals, and metals in water.
- Identify Contaminants: High TDS levels could indicate the presence of harmful substances, such as heavy metals or pollutants.
- Improve Water Taste: A water TDS meter ensures that the water is not too salty or mineral deficient, which can otherwise impact its taste and potability.
- Health & Safety: Regular total dissolved solids water tests help maintain water quality that is both safe to drink and beneficial to health.
What is the Best TDS Level for Drinking Water?
The best TDS level for drinking water typically falls within the range of 50 to 150 parts per million (ppm). This range is generally considered optimal for taste and health. However, the specific acceptable TDS level can vary depending on personal preference, regional water quality, and individual health conditions. Here's a breakdown.
- 50-150 ppm: Ideal for taste and health, with water tasting fresh and having a good balance of essential minerals.
- 150-300 ppm: Acceptable for drinking, although some people may notice a slight change in taste as the water is a bit hard.
- 300-500 ppm: Safe but not ideal for regular drinking, and some may find the taste unpleasant.
- 500-1000 ppm: Generally, water at this level may not taste very pleasant and could have an impact on health if consumed regularly.
- Above 1000 ppm: This is of considered of poor quality for drinking, with the potential for adverse health effects.
What is a Digital TDS Meter and How Does it Work?
Total Dissolved Solids meters (TDS) are digital handheld devices designed to measure the concentration of dissolved solids in a solution, typically water. It provides a quick and convenient way to determine the overall quality or purity of the water by measuring the total amount of dissolved substances present.
TDS water meters work based on the principle of electrical conductivity. When immersed in a liquid, the meter's probes or electrodes detect the conductivity of the solution. Since dissolved solids, such as salts, minerals, metals, and other ions, contribute to the conductivity of the water, the meter can estimate the TDS level.
TDS water meters are commonly used in various settings, including residential, commercial, and industrial applications. They are useful for assessing water quality, checking the efficiency of water treatment systems, monitoring nutrient levels in hydroponics or aquaponics, and ensuring compliance with regulatory standards for drinking water.
Types of TDS Measurement Solutions Provided by Cannon Water Technology
Being at the forefront of water treatment technologies for several years, we understand the requirements of our clients. Currently, we provide the following types of TDS measurement solutions:
- Conductivity Meters: Most TDS testers available with us can measure the conductivity of water. We help customers choose from various types of digital handheld meters and dialysate meters available with us. We also provide combo meters that act as total dissolved solids testers as well as temperature measurement devices. These devices can measure TDS, electrical conductivity, as well as temperature.
- Chemical Testing Kits: Most chemical testing kits provided by us include digital hand-held meters. These kits comprise solutions to measure TDS, mineral/salt concentration, conductivity, chlorine, pH, and other features.
Applications of TDS Meter Measuring Unit
We regularly provide TDS measurement solutions to our clients in the following areas:
- Water management services
- Food and beverage processing
- Refractometry
- Agriculture industries
- Laboratories and scientific testing facilities
- Ecology testing facilities
What Does a TDS Meter Not Measure?
While the water TDS meter is an excellent tool for measuring the total concentration of dissolved solids, there are limitations.
- No Specific Contaminant Identification: The TDS meter for water only measures total dissolved solids and cannot differentiate between beneficial minerals and harmful contaminants.
- Does Not Detect Bacteria or Viruses: Water quality TDS meter cannot identify microbial contaminants such as bacteria or viruses in water.
- Limited to Dissolved Solids: Total dissolved solids water tests do not measure chemicals such as chlorine, fluoride, or heavy metals that may still be present even if the TDS level is safe.
- Need for Additional Testing: For a comprehensive understanding of water quality, additional water testing equipment or methods are necessary to check for specific contaminants.
We understand the human dependence on water. This is why we only provide TDS measurement solutions from trusted brands. Our experts always work with clients to understand their requirements before suggesting them the right solution. They assist clients through the selection to implementation and also provide aftersales support. Do you have any query on any TDS water meters listed on this page? You can email or phone us your queries and we would be happy to serve you.
FAQ-
- What is TDS meter?
A TDS meter is a device used to measure the concentration of dissolved solids in a liquid, typically water. It provides a numerical value that represents the total amount of dissolved substances, including minerals, salts, metals, and other organic and inorganic compounds.
- Where TDS water tester used?
TDS water testers are used in various industries and applications where monitoring the concentration of dissolved solids in water is important like water quality testing, aquariums and aquaculture, pools and spas and industrial processes.
- Is TDS a good test for water?
TDS measurement is widely favored for assessing water quality due to its simplicity, accessibility, and ability to offer users a general understanding of their water composition.
- What is the size of TDS water tester?
TDS water tester come in various sizes, but they are generally compact and handheld devices. The typical size of a TDS meter is similar to that of a pen or a small electronic gadget. These devices are designed to be portable and easy to handle. The size may vary slightly depending on the specific brand or model.
- How is digital TDS meter measured?
The TDS meter measures the conductivity and converts it into a TDS reading, usually displayed in parts per million (ppm) or milligrams per liter (mg/L).