TDS in drinking water refers to the total dissolved solids found in water. These solids include minerals, salts, and other dissolved substances that affect water quality, taste, and suitability for different uses. Understanding TDS levels helps homeowners, tenants, businesses, and property managers in Kenya make informed decisions about drinking water safety and water purification.
TDS levels can vary depending on the water source. Borehole water may contain high levels of dissolved minerals and salts, while municipal water can also contain dissolved substances picked up during treatment and distribution. Water from rivers, wells, and other sources may have different TDS readings depending on local conditions.
A TDS meter measures the electrical conductivity of water and estimates the total concentration of dissolved substances. The reading is usually displayed in parts per million (ppm). Although a TDS meter provides a useful starting point for checking water quality, it cannot identify individual contaminants or confirm that water is safe to drink. For example, a low TDS reading does not guarantee that water is free from bacteria, viruses, or harmful chemicals.
The World Health Organization does not establish a health-based guideline value for TDS in drinking water. However, high TDS levels may affect taste, cause scaling, or indicate that further water testing is necessary. Water with a salty taste may require additional testing to identify the dissolved salts present.
Homeowners using borehole water in Kenya can benefit from testing their water before choosing a suitable purification system. Reverse osmosis (RO) systems can reduce many dissolved salts and minerals, making them a useful option for treating water with elevated TDS. However, the correct treatment method depends on the actual water analysis, the contaminants present, and the household’s daily water demand.
Learn more about TDS in water and what the readings mean, explore how to test water quality at home, or discover how reverse osmosis purifies water.
Pureflex Water Solutions provides water purification products for homes and businesses across Kenya. Understanding TDS levels is an important first step towards choosing the right water filter or reverse osmosis system for your needs.
What does TDS in water mean? Learn the ideal TDS levels for drinking water in Kenya, how to test TDS, effects of high TDS, and the best ways to reduce dissolved solids.
