Understanding TDS: Why Pune's Water Hardness Matters
TDS stands for Total Dissolved Solids. It is a measure of the combined concentration of all inorganic and organic substances dissolved in your water — including calcium, magnesium, sodium, potassium, chlorides, sulfates, and other minerals.
What do TDS levels mean?
- Below 50 ppm: Too pure — may lack essential minerals. Common after RO with no mineralizer.
- 50–150 ppm: Ideal for drinking water. Fresh, clean taste.
- 150–300 ppm: Acceptable but slightly hard. Common in well-maintained municipal supply.
- 300–500 ppm: Hard water. Leaves white scale on utensils and taps. Not ideal for drinking long-term.
- Above 500 ppm: Very hard. Can cause kidney issues with prolonged consumption.
Pune's Water Reality
Pune's municipal water sources vary drastically. Areas supplied from Khadakwasla dam tend to have lower TDS (around 150–250 ppm). However, areas in the outskirts like Wakad, Bhosari, Talawade, and parts of Pimpri-Chinchwad that rely on groundwater or have older pipelines can see TDS levels of 400–800 ppm.
How to test your TDS at home
A digital TDS meter costs between ₹200–₹500 and can be bought online. Simply dip it in your drinking water and check the reading. If it's above 300 ppm, you need an RO purifier. You should also measure the output water from your RO — it should be between 50–150 ppm.