Quick Answer: The ideal TDS level for drinking water is 150–300 ppm. Water below 50 ppm is too pure and lacks essential minerals, while water above 500 ppm may contain harmful salts and contaminants.
Maintaining the right TDS level ensures good taste, proper hydration, and better health.
TDS (Total Dissolved Solids) refers to the combined amount of organic and inorganic substances dissolved in water, such as:
Minerals: Calcium, Magnesium, Potassium, Sodium
Salts: Bicarbonates, Chlorides, Sulfates
Metals: Iron, Lead, Copper (in contaminated water)
👉 How is TDS measured?
TDS is measured in ppm (parts per million) or mg/L using a digital TDS meter.
Many believe “the lower the TDS, the purer the water.” But that’s not always true.
Too low TDS (<50 ppm) means water is free from impurities but also lacks minerals, while too high TDS (>500 ppm) can cause health risks.
Here’s why TDS balance matters:
✅ Taste
Below 50 ppm → Flat, bland taste
Above 500 ppm → Salty or bitter taste
✅ Health
Provides essential minerals for bones, electrolytes & heart health
✅ Appliance Longevity
High TDS water causes scaling in pipes, kettles, and purifiers
Organization | Recommended TDS Range | Notes |
---|---|---|
WHO (World Health Organization) | 300 ppm or below | Water below 100 ppm may lack minerals |
BIS (Bureau of Indian Standards) | 50–500 ppm | Ideal for Indian households |
EPA (US Environmental Protection Agency) | Up to 500 ppm | Above this, water is unsafe |
TDS Level (ppm) | Water Quality | Suitability |
---|---|---|
Below 50 | Poor ❌ | Lacks minerals, not ideal long-term |
50 – 150 | Acceptable ⚠️ | May need remineralization |
150 – 300 | Ideal ✅ | Best balance of taste & health |
300 – 500 | Safe 👍 | Still drinkable but heavier taste |
500+ | Unsafe ❌ | May contain harmful salts/metals |
Drinking water with TDS below 50 ppm can cause:
❌ Mineral Deficiencies – Lack of calcium & magnesium
❌ Electrolyte Imbalance – Fatigue, cramps, weakness
❌ Long-Term Risks – Bone and heart health issues
👉 If your water TDS is too low (<50 ppm):
Add a mineral cartridge in your RO purifier
Mix RO water with normal tap water (only if safe)
Use UV/UF purifier instead of RO (if source TDS <300 ppm)
Regularly check with a TDS meter
👉 If your water TDS is too high (>500 ppm):
Use RO purification
Install RO + UV + Mineralizer system
TDS Range (ppm) | Recommended Purifier |
---|---|
50 – 150 | UV / UF Purifier |
150 – 300 | RO + UV Purifier |
300 – 500 | RO + UV + Mineralizer |
500+ | Advanced RO Purifier |
Q1: What is the minimum TDS for drinking water?
👉 At least 50 ppm to ensure essential minerals are present.
Q2: Is low TDS water harmful?
👉 Yes. Below 50 ppm, long-term use can cause mineral deficiency.
Q3: What is the best TDS range for drinking water?
👉 150–300 ppm (balanced taste + minerals).
Q4: How to check TDS level?
👉 Use a digital TDS meter—cheap & widely available.
Q5: Does boiling reduce TDS?
👉 No. Boiling kills germs but does not reduce or change TDS.
🚰 To ensure safe, healthy water:
Keep TDS between 150–300 ppm for best taste & mineral balance.
Regularly test your water with a TDS meter.
Use the right purifier (RO, UV, UF, or combination) based on source water.
💙 Remember: Mineral-rich water is not just safe—it’s essential for long-term health.
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