pH Testing

What Is pH?

The pH of water is a measure of how acidic or alkaline it is. The pH is measured using a scale from 1 – 14, where pH 1 is very acidic, and pH 14 is very alkaline. The acidity of the water is a measure of the number of hydrogen ions present.

The pH of the water will affect the chemistry of the water and how it reacts with chemicals and surroundings, so in most applications maintaining a stable pH is essential.

Where Should pH Be Monitored?

pH In Drinking Water

pH is important to monitor and control in drinking water as it can directly affect the performance of the treatment and disinfection process. The WHO state that the pH will vary in different supplies according to the composition of the water and the construction materials used in the distribution system. According to the WHO for effective disinfection with chlorine, the pH should be less than 8.0.

The US EPA consider pH of drinking water a secondary contaminant as it does not have a direct impact on health. According to their Secondary Standards, pH in drinking water should be between 6.5 – 8.5. A low pH can result in bitter, metallic tasting water and can cause corrosion of pipes. Whereas, a high pH can cause water to have a soda like taste.

The DWI include pH as an indicator parameter. They specify that the pH of drinking water should be between 6.5 and 9.0.

pH In Aquaculture

pH is a critical parameter in aquaculture as most forms of aquatic life are very sensitive to pH changes. Consistent high or low pH levels will negatively impact the growth and reproduction abilities of fish.

Changes in pH can also affect aquatic life indirectly by altering other aspects of the water chemistry. At a high pH most ammonium is converted to toxic ammonia (NH3) which can kill fish. For more information about test parameters in aquaculture take a look at our case study on Water Testing at London Zoo.

pH In Wastewater

pH of wastewater has a direct influence on water treatability; it must be monitored because the bacteria are highly sensitive to drops in pH. It must also be controlled to protect equipment from corrosion.

It is necessary to control the pH of wastewater to protect the environment; the discharged waters will affect the receiving source. The typical consent limit for pH of discharge waters is between 6 and 9.

pH In Pools And Spas

pH is a fundamental parameter in pool and spa testing. Maintaining the right pH, ensures the effectiveness of chlorine and helps to protect pool fittings against corrosion.

Ideally in pools and spas pH should be maintained between 7.2-7.4. This allows for effective disinfection and is optimal for bather comfort. An overall range of 7.0–7.6 is acceptable in most pools. pH should be measured daily and should always be measured at the same time as the disinfectant.

For an overview of key testing parameters, guidance on recommended levels and the effects of poor water monitoring download our pool chemistry guide or spa chemistry guide.

pH In Soil, Irrigation And Hydroponics

pH is a critical parameter for healthy plant growth and crop yield. The optimum pH for most home gardens is around 6.5 as most plants thrive in the 6.0-7.0 range. However, some plants, such as blueberries and azaleas, prefer more acidic soil, and few, such as ferns and asparagus, do better in slightly alkaline soil.

In the 6.0-7.0 range the availability of major nutrients is at its highest and bacterial and earthworm activity is optimised. A too high/low pH often wont kill plants outright but it can affect their growth and result in poor crop yields.

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How To Test pH Of Water?

The pH pocket sensor is the ideal solution for quick and easy field testing of pH. The compact handheld meter is lightweight and simple to use.

For testing pH in pools and spas we have a range of photometers. Palintest’s Pooltest 25 Photometer covers the complete range of water testing parameters making it the ideal choice for pool and spa management. It enables full disinfection and water balance control. For a quick and simple calculation of water balance our balanced water kit for pool and spa can be used.

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