If you don’t own a meter, a scale, or a smartphone, you can estimate TDS based on taste and appearance. Does your water taste a little salty or metallic? Probably higher TDS. Does it leave white spots on your dark dishes after washing? Definitely higher TDS. Does it taste like pure, sweet nothing? That’s probably reverse osmosis water, which is basically water’s ghost—low TDS.
Understanding Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) in Drinking Water
You can also look up your local water utility’s annual report online. They legally have to tell you the average TDS in your area. It’s like a report card for your tap. If it’s above 500 ppm, you might want to consider a filter. If it’s below 100 ppm, you’re basically drinking polished clouds. Congratulations!
