pH Level

Testing the pH level in water is crucial because extreme pH values (either too high or too low) can lead to problems in water quality and treatment. Low pH can cause corrosion in pipes, releasing metals into the water, while high pH can lead to scaling and affect the efficacy of disinfectants like chlorine.

The pH level can significantly affect the taste and overall quality of drinking water. Water with a very low pH might taste metallic or sour due to dissolved metals, while high pH can give water a slippery feel and a soda-like taste. Both extremes can make water unpleasant to drink.

Exposure to water with extremely high or low pH levels can have adverse health effects. High pH levels can cause skin and eye irritation and exacerbate skin conditions. Conversely, low pH levels can lead to metal poisoning, as acidic water can dissolve metals from pipes.

pH imbalance in water can be caused by natural factors like the presence of certain minerals and soils, or by human activities such as industrial discharge, mining operations, and agricultural runoff. Additionally, water treatment processes can also alter the pH level of water.