Low pH and High pH
The pH level is an indicator of water quality. In simple terms, pH (potential of hydrogen) is a numerical scale that measures the acidity or alkalinity of water. Neutral or pure water has a pH of 7. When the pH of water is less than 7, or low, the water is acidic. On the other hand, water with a high pH, or greater than 7, is alkaline.
Low pH or acidic water is usually a sign of elevated levels of heavy metals or chemicals in the water. It degrades the water quality giving it a metallic or sour taste. Acid water is also very corrosive and damaging to plumbing, copper pipes, and appliances. It’s also the reason for those blue-green stains on the sink, faucets, and plumbing fixtures.
What causes low pH (acidic) water?
The limestone rock formations that line the underground Florida aquifers are natural neutralizers that help protect the water from the lower pH that is typical of groundwater. However, variances in rock formations, soil, and organic decomposition can affect the pH balance making the water more acidic. Heavy rainfall, chemicals, or pollution from industrial facilities can leak into soil and surface waters, lowering the pH of groundwater, well water, lakes, rivers, and other water collection sources to unhealthy levels.
Is high pH (alkaline) water good for you?
There is a growing trend, with some proponents claiming that drinking high pH or alkaline water is beneficial and can neutralize the acid in the bloodstream. Some proponents also claim that it can help prevent cancer or heart disease. According to the Mayo Clinic, research studies indicate that alkaline water is unlikely to affect the bloodstream’s pH level. Also, there is not enough credible evidence to support health claims that drinking alkaline water is better for you than tap water. Alkaline water often contains high amounts of calcium carbonate and other minerals, which can cause hard water. It can also cause adverse health reactions, including nausea, vomiting, and gastrointestinal issues.
What is the pH of tap water in Florida?
The Florida Department of Health requires public water systems to comply with its secondary drinking water standards and maintain a pH balance of 6.5 to 8.5. Keep in mind that the chemical composition can change, affecting the water’s pH balance as it travels from the public water treatment plant to your home or business.
Signs you may have low pH water
- Blue/green stains around your sink and plumbing fixtures
- Metallic or sour taste
- Bad smell
- Skin dryness or irritation
- Low water pressure
- Leaking water pipes
- Appliances are performing poorly
How to fix low pH in the water
Our whole home water filtration system and neutralizer will ensure the right pH balance of the water in your home or business, avoiding the expensive damage that acidic water can cause to your plumbing and appliances.
Life is better with clear, odor-free, and better-tasting water from Atlantic Coast Water Clinic. We provide high-quality water treatment and purification solutions by Kinetico to prevent low pH water in Southeast Florida, including Stuart, Palm City, Lakewood Park, Jensen Beach, Indiantown, and communities throughout St. Lucie, Indian River, and Martin Counties. Contact a professional, trained water specialist today!
Get a Free Analysis & Quote from Atlantic Coast Water Clinic for any of our solutions. Call (772) 283-4767 or use our online form at the top of the page.