pH stands for potential of hydrogen. This is referring to the likelihood that a substance will be willing to accept or give up a hydrogen ion. This is measured on a scale of 0-14 and is know as the pH level of a substance. A substance that is a 7 on the pH scale is considered neutral, and this is usually around where drinking water falls (anywhere from 6.5 to 8.5 Ph). In this article we will discuss some signs that the Ph level in your homes water is out of balance and what to do about it.
5 Most Common Signs of Unbalanced Ph in Your Home
Metallic Taste
A metallic taste is one of the most common problems related to pH in your home. It occurs when the levels are very high and is an incredibly unsafe telltale sign in all cases. Before calling an expert for a consultation, though, you should try it yourself with strips that can test for even the slightest degree of unbalanced pH. Generally speaking, if you notice a metallic taste, it’s best to seek professional help immediately and stop the consumption of the tap water.
Clarity
If the water is exceptionally murky or has a brownish tint, you’re in danger of corrosive contaminants in your pipes. You can check to be sure by using one of the pH testing strips. If the result is below 6.5 this is a concern. The results should help determine if you need a water purification system to help balance out the pH.
Color
The color is one of the easiest things to look for when determining your home’s water balance. It’s a simple giveaway that you can tell a lot about your water just by looking at it. If your water is dark yellow and rusty, the pH is far beyond unbalanced, and you need an immediate solution. A green tint in your water doesn’t necessarily mean something wrong with the pH, but it could indicate bacteria buildup of excess minerals in the pipes.
Odor
Another way you can tell how unbalanced your water is by the odor it leaves behind. If your water is leaving an odor, it means there’s something wrong with it, and you need to buy a filtration system or go ahead and call for professional help immediately.
Stains
If you notice that your walls, floors, or even clothes are showing weird stains, there’s a good chance it has to do with the water you’re using. Excess minerals or chemicals in your water supply might cause stains. If you have a lot of buildup on the inside of your pipes, this is probably the cause of all the discoloration. Mineral or chemical deposits in tap water can cause all kinds of problems for your home, as well as your families health if consumed for periods of time.
Why it Matters
The key takeaway is that water pH has a lot more to do with your water quality that one might initially think. Water with low pH can cause plumbing and appliance issues as well as health issues if consumed by your family. High ph can carry too many minerals and can cause scale build up and water pressure issues in your home. By taking note of these signs, you’ll understand how vital the water chemistry of pH is and why it is a good idea to have the water in your home assessed for pH level as well as the contaminants/ minerals it may contain. In having a professional assess your water, they can make suggestions for the necessary steps to be taken to get your water in better shape for everyday use.