Water is essential for every aspect of life, from drinking and cooking to washing and bathing. But did you know that the pH level of your water can significantly impact your home? Whether you get your water from a public supply or a private well, understanding the pH of your water is crucial in ensuring the health of your household, appliances, and plumbing system.

In this blog, the home water experts at Water Dr. in Ansonia, CT, explain what water pH is and how it affects your home.

What is Water pH?

Water pH measures how acidic or alkaline water is on a scale of 0 to 14, where 7 is neutral. If the pH is below 7, the water is considered acidic; above 7, it’s alkaline. The pH level of your water can affect various factors, from the taste of your drinking water to the longevity of your plumbing.

The Impact of Low pH (Acidic Water)

When water has a low pH, it’s considered “acidic.” Acidic water can be problematic for several reasons:

1. Corrosion of Pipes and Appliances

Acidic water can corrode metal pipes and appliances over time. If your plumbing system has a lower pH, it may cause the pipes to deteriorate faster, leading to leaks, water damage, or the need for costly repairs or replacements. Your water heater, dishwasher, and washing machine are also at risk of premature wear and tear.

2. Taste and Smell

Acidic water may have a metallic taste and could carry an unpleasant odor, which can make your drinking water less enjoyable. This can affect the taste of your coffee, tea, or even food cooked with water.

3. Health Concerns

While acidic water is typically not harmful to drink in small amounts, prolonged exposure to low pH levels may leach metals like copper, iron, and lead from pipes into the water. This can lead to potential health issues, particularly if high levels of these metals enter your drinking supply.

The Impact of High pH (Alkaline Water)

On the opposite end of the scale, water with a high pH is considered “alkaline.” While alkaline water isn’t as common in residential areas as acidic water, it can still pose problems.

1. Scale Build-up in Pipes

Alkaline water can cause mineral build-up or “scale” inside pipes and appliances. This happens because the water may have an excess of minerals like calcium and magnesium, which can form deposits over time. These deposits can block pipes, reducing water flow and causing your water heater and other appliances to work less efficiently.

2. Water Taste

Alkaline water can sometimes have a soapy or bitter taste, which can make drinking water less pleasant. Additionally, this taste can carry over into cooking, affecting the flavor of your food and beverages.

3. Laundry Problems

Alkaline water can also make it more difficult for laundry detergents to properly clean clothes. Hard water minerals can bind to detergents, making them less effective. Clothes washed in alkaline water may feel stiff or look dull, and they can be more prone to fading or wear over time.

How to Test Your Water pH

Understanding the pH level of your water is the first step in addressing any issues it may cause. There are simple tests you can perform at home to check your water’s pH level using pH test strips or digital pH meters. If you’re unsure about the results or need a more accurate reading, consider hiring a professional water service company to perform a thorough water test.

Safeguard Your Home’s Water With Water Dr. LLC

If you suspect your home’s water might suffer from pH imbalances, don’t wait until it causes issues. Reach out to Water Dr. in Ansonia, CT, for expert water testing and solutions. Contact us today to schedule a consultation!