Ideal TDS for Drinking Water - Everything You Need to Know
According to the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS), the acceptable TDS level in drinking water is up to 500 mg/L. Water with a TDS level above this threshold can become unpalatable and may pose long-term health risks. Yet, many people are unaware that even crystal-clear water can be unsafe if its TDS is too low or too high.
✅ The ideal TDS for drinking water is between 150 to 500 mg/L, as recommended by BIS. This range ensures the water is not only safe but also rich in essential minerals like calcium and magnesium, which are vital for hydration, bone strength, and overall well-being.
In this blog, we’ll explain what TDS is, why it matters, and how to ensure your water stays within the ideal TDS range for drinking water—whether you’re using tap water, bottled water, or an RO purifier.
What Is TDS and Why Does It Matter?
TDS, or Total Dissolved Solids, refers to the combined content of inorganic salts and small amounts of organic substances in water. These include minerals like sodium, potassium, calcium, magnesium, bicarbonates, chlorides, and sulfates.
While certain minerals are beneficial in moderate amounts, excessive TDS can alter the taste and hardness of water. At the same time, water with very low TDS may lack vital minerals and lead to deficiencies when consumed over time.
Simply put, drinking water ideal TDS ensures a healthy mineral balance without compromising taste or safety.
What Do Experts Say About the Ideal Level of TDS in Drinking Water?
Both national and global standards give guidance on what constitutes safe and ideal TDS for water:
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World Health Organization (WHO): Water with TDS below 300 mg/L is considered excellent. Above 1000 mg/L, it may become unpalatable.
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Bureau of Indian Standards (IS 10500:2012):
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Desirable limit: 500 mg/L
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Maximum permissible (if no alternative source): 2000 mg/L
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Based on these standards, the ideal TDS level for drinking water is between 150–500 mg/L. Water within this range maintains a good taste and provides essential nutrients.
What Happens If TDS Is Too Low or Too High?
Extremely low TDS (<100 mg/L) might sound healthy, but it can actually be harmful in the long term. Such water is often the result of over-filtration and lacks essential minerals needed for bodily functions.
On the other hand, high TDS (>500 mg/L) can lead to:
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Bitter or salty taste
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Hard water effects (e.g., scaling in appliances)
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Potential health risks like kidney stress or high blood pressure (if minerals like sodium are excessive)
Understanding and maintaining the ideal water TDS level is important for hydration, nutrient absorption, and avoiding long-term health issues.
Ideal TDS for RO Water: Is Reverse Osmosis Always Necessary?
Reverse Osmosis (RO) is a powerful method to reduce TDS, especially in areas where the source water has a high TDS (>500 mg/L). RO purifiers are widely used in India, often producing water with TDS as low as 30–50 mg/L.
However, RO water with TDS below 100 mg/L may require a TDS controller or mineral cartridge to restore essential minerals. That’s why the ideal TDS for RO water should still fall within the 150–300 mg/L range for it to be considered healthy for daily consumption.
If your source water already has a low TDS (below 300 mg/L), an RO system might not be necessary. In such cases, UV or UF purification systems may be more suitable, as they retain natural minerals while disinfecting the water.
How to Measure and Maintain Ideal Water TDS Level
How to Measure TDS
A digital TDS meter is the easiest tool to measure the TDS level in your water at home. Just immerse the probe in a glass of water and note the reading in mg/L (or ppm).
How to Maintain It
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Use the right purifier based on your source water TDS.
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Install mineral cartridges if using RO to avoid demineralized water.
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Service filters regularly to ensure optimal performance.
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Test water monthly to ensure it stays within the ideal range.
Maintaining the ideal water TDS for drinking doesn’t require complex steps—just regular monitoring and choosing the right purification system.
Conclusion: The Ideal TDS for Drinking Water Is a Health Priority
The ideal TDS for drinking water isn’t just a number—it’s a benchmark for health, safety, and taste. Water with a TDS between 150 and 500 mg/L is best for most people, as it ensures a good balance of minerals and a palatable taste.
Whether you’re installing an RO purifier or just curious about your tap water, checking the ideal level of TDS in drinking water is a simple but crucial step toward better health.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
❓What is the ideal TDS for drinking water in India?
The ideal TDS for drinking water in India, according to BIS standards, ranges between 150 to 500 mg/L. This range ensures good taste, essential minerals, and safe long-term consumption.
❓Is low TDS water harmful?
Yes. Drinking water with TDS below 100 mg/L can lack essential minerals like calcium and magnesium. Long-term consumption of such water may lead to mineral deficiencies and health issues.
❓What is the ideal TDS for RO water?
The ideal TDS for RO water is around 150–300 mg/L. RO systems often reduce TDS below 100 mg/L, so it's important to use a TDS controller or mineral cartridge to maintain healthy levels.
❓How can I measure the TDS level of my drinking water?
You can use a digital TDS meter, a portable device that provides instant TDS readings in mg/L or ppm. It's an affordable and easy way to monitor your water quality.
❓Is high TDS water safe to drink?
Water with TDS levels above 500 mg/L may taste salty or metallic and can contribute to kidney stress, digestive issues, and scaling in appliances. It's not recommended for long-term consumption.
❓What is the ideal level of TDS in drinking water for daily use?
The ideal level of TDS in drinking water for daily use is between 150–500 mg/L, balancing taste, safety, and mineral content suitable for regular hydration.
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