All about TDS for your pool or spa water

What is the TDS? What is it used for? Our chemistry expert explains in video all you need to know about TDS to better treat the water in your pool or spa. 

What is TDS ?

TDS stands for total dissolved solids in water. It determines the concentration of minerals and trace elements (iron, bromine, copper, etc.) in the water and is measured in ppm. If the TDS is too high or too low, the equipment will deteriorate. The TDS also has a great influence on the effectiveness of disinfectants: the higher it is, the less effective the treatment products will be. To keep your water healthy, we recommend investing in a TDS measuring solution.

What is the normal TDS value for my pool? 

• Bromine or chlorine pool the value must be between 250 and 2000 ppm
• Salt Pool or Spa :A value between 3,000 and 5,000 ppm (or 3 to 5g/l) is ideal.

High TDS levels are often responsible for cloudy water, corrosion, scaling and algae growth.

If your TDS is too low, the water may damage your equipment or irritate your eyes while you are swimming.

There is no chemical solution to change your TDS value. Only by changing the water can the TDS of your pond be corrected. The higher the value, the more water you will have to change.

What is the difference between TAC, TDS and TH? 

Here are a some key points to understand these three values which are related but often confused:

• TAC: alkalinity level (concentration of carbonates, bicarbonates and hydroxide ions)
• TH: hydrometric rate (water hardness, calcium and magnesium ion concentration)
• TDS : total dissolved solids , this is the most 'complete' of the three values as it includes all dissolved solids.

In conclusion: TDS is the safest value for measuring the balance of your pool/spa water. A balanced TDS preserves both your equipment and your health.