How to test PH levels of your Water

It is important to test the PH (the level of acidity or alkalinity) of water which is consumed. Water is consumed by human beings and plants on daily basis and measuring of PH is important as it provides information on potential contaminations. The PH of pure water is supposed to be 7 but the normal consumed water is given a slight allowance because of the additives that may be added during purification process. However, it should be close to 7. There are several methods that can be sued to test the PH levels of water. Each of the methods work in a different way and each have different precautions and capabilities. Below are the three main ways on How to test PH levels of your water:

1.The use of a PH Meter

This is one of the simplest methods but you have to take the required precautions and stick to the manufacturer’s standard operation procedures. The first step is to calibrate the probe and the meter as per the manufacturer’s specifications. To do this, you use a solution with a known PH rating. Adjust the meter accordingly until it indicate the correct reading then rinse the probe using clean water before using it. Dry it off with a clean and dry tissue or a cloth.

The next step is to collect the water sample to measure the PH in a clean container. Ensure that the water level is deep enough to cover the tip of the electrode. Allow the temperature to stabilize then measure the temperature of water sample using a thermometer. Adjust the meter to match the recorded temperature. The temperature changes affects the sensitivity of the probe, therefore, it is important to measure them accurately. Put the probe into the sample and wait for the meter to be at equilibrium and record your readings.

2.Using A PH Paper

It contains a series of indicator bars that changes the color after being exposed to a solution. It should not be confused with a litmus paper which usually indicates whether a solution is a strong acid or base. The strengths of acids and bases differ and are represented by different colors on the strip. The color indicated on the PH paper after dipping into the solution can be matched to the examples that come with the kit.

3.Use Of Reagent Drops

The reagent drops work by changing color due to the reaction with an acid or base. The main ingredient in the reagent drop is ethylene glycol which is very reactive and catalyzes with any change in PH. This causes the dyes in the reagent drops to change colors accordingly. When there is a color change, you just compare the color obtained with the standard color and PH values on the PH chart and read the PH value of water. This method is very simple and the reading can be done easily. However, you have to do it faster because the reagent drop is very reactive and can be affected by ambient conditions.

Those are the three methods that can be used to measure the PH value of water. They are simple procedures but you should be keen on the precautions so as to increase the accuracy levels of your readings.