Before we get into this, let’s start with a basic definition of what pH is. pH is a term that translates the values of the concentration of the hydrogen ion into numbers from 0 – 14. On a scale of 0 – 14, a pH of 7 in water is considered neutral. As you travel down the scale towards 0, the water becomes more and more acidic. As you travel up the scale towards 14 the water becomes more and more alkaline. See the chart above.
There are many articles and discussions about the positives and/or negatives about both acidic and alkaline pH levels. Particularly about alkaline water providing more minerals and acidic water being unsafe. In the articles we have read, the amount of minerals in water are minimal in their effect on the body. You are probably better to take a high-quality multivitamin. However, many people like the taste of low alkaline (around 8) water.
The argument about acidic water is that it is bad for you and/or hard on your stomach. It can be if you are sensitive to acidic foods such as citrus fruits or soda pop. Most sodas are in the range of 3 – 4 on the pH scale. So, if you drink soda at any time, a lower pH is not a concern in your water. But, everything in moderation.
Reverse Osmosis systems will lower the pH in water to about 6. It will remove up to 97% of all contaminants and minerals in the water. This provides you with absolutely pure water with no worries of contaminants such as chlorine or fluoride (both are required in municipal water by law). A level of pH at 6 is considered on the acidic side, but few people will realize it or be affected negatively by it. If you are concerned about pH levels, we now have an alkaline filter available on our Reverse Osmosis systems to add minerals and raise the pH level.
If your water is between 6 and 8 on the pH scale, you are within a safe range. We can test for pH at either one of our locations at no charge.
Contact us at www.treatmywater.com if you have further questions and we can schedule a time with one of our water consultants to visit with you.