How much TDS water is safe for drinking?

Clean drinking water is essential, but not all "clean" water is equal. One of the most overlooked but crucial aspects of water quality is TDS, or Total Dissolved Solids. While purification systems like RO (Reverse Osmosis) help remove impurities, they can also lower TDS levels too much — leading to other health concerns. So, how much TDS in water is actually safe for drinking?

This blog breaks down what TDS is, why it matters, and the ideal TDS level for drinking water in India and globally. It’s a clear, trustworthy guide for households and B2B water solution buyers alike.

What Is TDS in Drinking Water?

TDS (Total Dissolved Solids) refers to the total amount of inorganic salts and organic substances dissolved in water. These include essential minerals like:

• Calcium

• Magnesium

• Potassium

• Sodium

And possibly harmful substances like:

• Chlorides

• Sulphates

• Nitrates

• Heavy metals (e.g., arsenic, lead)

TDS is measured in milligrams per liter (mg/L) or parts per million (ppm). A higher or lower value doesn't automatically mean better or worse quality — the composition matters.

Ideal TDS Level for Drinking Water: What the Experts Say

Understanding safe levels starts with global standards.

WHO (World Health Organization)

• Desirable TDS: Less than 300 ppm

• Acceptable up to: 600 ppm

• Above 1000 ppm: Not fit for drinking

BIS (Bureau of Indian Standards)

• Ideal TDS: Up to 500 ppm

• Maximum permissible (in absence of alternatives): 2000 ppm

These organizations recommend that water should ideally have TDS between 150 to 300 ppm, balancing taste, safety, and health value.

Safe TDS Range for Different Use Cases

The safe TDS range for drinking is generally between 150–500 ppm. Below this, water lacks minerals; above this, it may contain harmful contaminants.

Why Too Low TDS Is Also a Problem

RO systems often reduce TDS drastically, sometimes to below 50 ppm. While that might seem ultra-pure, water with low TDS is not healthy in the long run.

Risks of Low TDS Water:

• Lacks essential minerals like calcium and magnesium

• Can cause electrolyte imbalance

• Tastes flat or acidic

• Can lead to fatigue, cramps, and mineral deficiency

A lot of households unknowingly drink such “over-purified” water, especially with older or improperly configured RO systems.

TDS in RO Water: Why You Should Monitor It

RO (Reverse Osmosis) systems are excellent at purifying water, especially when the source has high TDS. But unless they have a TDS controller, they often bring it too low.

Why is TDS in RO water a concern?

• No minerals: RO removes everything – good and bad

• Health implications: Long-term use may lead to mineral depletion

• Taste issues: Water tastes "empty" or unpleasant

• RO waste: Too much TDS removal leads to water wastage

How to Fix It:

• Use a TDS controller to blend purified and raw water

• Add a mineralizer/post-carbon filter to restore essential minerals

• Regularly check your TDS meter reading

The ideal TDS in RO water should be between 150 and 300 ppm, which ensures safety, taste, and health benefits.

What Determines If TDS Is Safe?

It’s not just about the number — the type of dissolved solids matters.

• Good TDS: Calcium, potassium, magnesium, bicarbonates

• Bad TDS: Lead, arsenic, nitrates, fluorides

This is why water with a TDS of 400 ppm can be safer than water with TDS of 150 ppm, if the latter lacks essential minerals or has hidden toxins.

Common Sources of High TDS

TDS levels vary based on your water source:

• Borewell water: Often above 1000 ppm (contains salts, metals)

• River/lake water: Moderate TDS, better after treatment

• Municipal tap water: Treated but may have 300–500 ppm

• Packaged water: Generally around 50–150 ppm

Knowing your source is key to adjusting treatment methods appropriately.

How to Measure and Maintain Safe TDS Levels at Home

You don’t need a lab test to monitor TDS. A portable digital TDS meter gives quick, reliable readings.

Steps:

1. Fill a clean glass with water.

2. Dip the TDS meter sensor into it.

3. Wait for the reading to stabilize.

4. Compare the value with the ideal TDS chart.

Best Practices:

• Check TDS monthly

• Re-calibrate RO systems yearly

• Install TDS control and remineralization filters

This simple habit ensures your water remains within a safe and healthy range.

Do All Purifiers Offer TDS Control?

No. Basic UV or UF purifiers do not control TDS — they only kill bacteria or filter particles.

If your water source has high TDS (borewell or tanker), you should use a RO purifier with TDS controller or alkaline filter.

Signs You’re Drinking Unsafe TDS Water

Watch out for these signs:

• Metallic or salty taste (high TDS)

• Flat or acidic taste (low TDS)

• Dry skin, hair loss, or stomach issues

• Appliance scaling or pipe damage

Regular testing helps avoid both ends of the danger spectrum.

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Conclusion: So, How Much TDS Water Is Safe for Drinking?

The safe TDS for drinking water falls between 150 to 500 ppm, with the ideal being 150–300 ppm. This range ensures:

• Essential minerals are present

• No harmful substances exceed permissible levels

• Good taste and nutritional value

Both extremely low and high TDS levels are unhealthy. Whether you’re a household consumer or a B2B buyer sourcing RO systems for industrial use, monitoring and managing TDS is critical for health and performance.

Use a TDS meter, install the right purifier, and periodically test your water to stay in the safe zone.

FAQs: How Much TDS Water Is Safe for Drinking?

Q1. Is 100 ppm TDS safe for drinking?
Yes, but it may taste flat and lack essential minerals. Ideally, 150–300 ppm is better.

Q2. What happens if I drink high TDS water?
You may face health issues like kidney stress, stomach problems, or toxic metal exposure if the TDS is due to harmful contaminants.

Q3. Can RO reduce TDS too much?
Yes. RO can reduce TDS to below 50 ppm, which is not advisable. Use a TDS controller to maintain safe levels.

Q4. Should I boil water to lower TDS?
No. Boiling kills germs but doesn’t affect TDS. You need a RO or nanofiltration system for that.

Q5. Is bottled water always within safe TDS range?
Not always. Some bottled water has extremely low TDS. Check the label or test it before regular use.