What is TDS?
TDS stands for Total Dissolved Solids—tiny particles like minerals, salts, and metals in your water. Your reverse osmosis (RO) system is built to reduce most of these solids, giving you cleaner, better water. You can test how well your system is working by following the steps below.
What You Need to Know:
- The membrane (the middle cartridge in your system) is the part that reduces TDS in your water.
- Membranes usually last 1–3 years, depending on your water usage and quality.
- When you install new filters, you might see higher TDS levels for a few days. This is normal as carbon fines are rinsed out. Wait a few days of regular use before testing for accurate results.
- TDS includes both positive and negative minerals, such as:
- Positive ions (+): Calcium, Magnesium, Potassium, Sodium
- Negative ions (–): Carbonates, Nitrates, Chlorides
How to Test TDS Levels:
You can check your system’s performance by calculating the TDS Rejection Percentage Rate using a TDS meter. Here’s how:
1. Test your tap water: Take a sample from your sink and record the TDS level in parts per million (ppm).
2. Test your RO water: Take a sample from your RO faucet and record the TDS ppm.
3. Calculate the reduction: Subtract the RO water TDS from the tap water TDS. Divide this result by the tap water TDS, then multiply by 100.
Example:
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