Water TDS level in India

“Is your drinking water really safe if the TDS level is too low or too high?”
That’s a common question every health-conscious individual should ask.

With rising concerns about water quality in Indian households, TDS (Total Dissolved Solids) has become one of the most searched terms. But what does it actually mean? How much is too much—or too little? And how can you manage it effectively at home?

This blog answers all your burning questions about water TDS level—in a format that’s easy to understand and backed by practical guidance.

What Is TDS in Water?

TDS stands for Total Dissolved Solids. It refers to the amount of organic and inorganic substances—like salts, minerals, metals, and ions—dissolved in water.

These may include:

• Calcium

• Magnesium

• Sodium

• Chlorides

• Sulfates

• Iron

• Fluorides

A moderate TDS level is not just acceptable—it’s essential for your body, as it supplies necessary minerals. However, when TDS crosses safe limits, it can harm your health or affect the taste of water.

What Is the Ideal TDS Level for Drinking Water?

According to the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS), the permissible TDS level in drinking water is:

Ideal range: 150–300 mg/L is generally considered optimum for both taste and mineral content.

How to Check Water TDS Level at Home

You don’t need a lab to check TDS. Here are simple methods:

1. TDS Meter (Digital)

• Cost: ₹250–₹1000

• Insert the meter in a glass of water.

• The screen displays TDS in parts per million (ppm).

2. TDS Level Estimation by Taste (Not Accurate)

• Slightly salty or metallic taste = high TDS

• Flat or bland taste = very low TDS

Note: Manual taste tests are not reliable. Always use a TDS meter for accurate reading.

Why High or Low TDS in Water Can Be Dangerous

TDS is not always a villain—but extremes in either direction can be harmful.

Problems with High TDS (>500 mg/L)

• Bitter or salty taste

• Corrosion of pipes

• Health risks: kidney stones, hard water damage to skin and hair

• Hard to digest for children and elderly

Problems with Low TDS (<100 mg/L)

• Strips away essential minerals like calcium and magnesium

• Weakens bone strength over time

• May lead to mineral deficiency

• Tastes bland or acidic

What Factors Affect TDS in Your Water Supply?

• Source of water: Groundwater generally has higher TDS than river or rainwater.

• Region: Coastal and industrial areas often report high TDS levels due to mineral-rich soil and contamination.

• Pipe quality: Old pipelines may leach metal ions into water.

• Water treatment: RO and softeners can reduce TDS drastically—sometimes too much.

How to Control TDS in Water?

The best way to regulate TDS is through water purification systems. But not all purifiers work the same way.

Reverse Osmosis (RO)

• Removes up to 95 percent of TDS.

• Ideal for high TDS levels (above 500 ppm).

• May strip minerals—re-mineralizers are advised.

Ultraviolet (UV)

• Kills bacteria and viruses but does not reduce TDS.

• Suitable only if TDS is within the safe range (150–300 ppm).

RO vs UV: Which Is Better for Managing TDS?

Verdict: For high TDS water, RO is the better choice. If your TDS is already within 150–300 ppm, a UV purifier may suffice.

Why You Need a TDS Controller in Water Purifier

One big issue with traditional RO purifiers is they remove essential minerals along with harmful solids.

That’s where a TDS controller in water purifier comes in.

Benefits of a TDS Controller:

• Maintains healthy minerals like calcium and magnesium.

• Lets you set TDS output manually (in advanced models).

• Improves taste and overall health value of water.

Many modern RO + UV/UF purifiers include TDS controllers or mineral cartridges to solve this issue.

Best Water Purifier for High TDS in India

If your area has TDS levels above 500 ppm, you need a purifier that offers:

• RO membrane

• TDS controller or mineralizer

• Pre-filter and activated carbon

• Optional UV/UF for pathogen removal

Here are some top-rated RO purifiers suitable for high TDS areas:

Tip: Always test your TDS level before choosing a purifier. RO is not required for low TDS (under 150 ppm) and may even be harmful.

Can You Drink 0 TDS Water?

This is a myth worth busting.

Zero TDS water is not good for health.
It lacks natural minerals your body needs. Over time, drinking water with very low TDS may cause:

• Mineral loss

• Weakened bones

• Poor digestion

• Altered pH balance in blood

So even if your RO purifies water to almost 0 TDS, make sure a TDS controller or mineral cartridge is present to bring it back up to 150–300 mg/L.

Final Thoughts: Why TDS Is the Key to Safe Drinking Water

TDS is more than just a number—it’s a vital quality marker for your drinking water. Understanding your water TDS level helps you:

• Choose the right purifier

• Maintain mineral balance

• Improve health outcomes

• Avoid unnecessary RO usage

So before you install a purifier or refill your bottle, take a minute to test your TDS. It’s a small step toward big health gains.

FAQs on Water TDS Level

1. What is the safe TDS level for drinking water in India?
150–300 ppm is ideal, and anything below 500 ppm is acceptable per BIS standards.

2. Can RO water be harmful if TDS is too low?
Yes. RO systems that remove too much TDS can strip essential minerals. Use a TDS controller.

3. How often should I test my TDS level?
Test once every 3–6 months, or after changing your purifier filters.

4. Is higher TDS always bad?
Not always. Natural mineral water may have slightly high TDS and still be healthy if it doesn't contain harmful chemicals or salts.

5. Is UV better than RO?
They serve different purposes. UV kills germs, while RO removes excess TDS. Use a combo if needed.