Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) in Tropic Florida Water

Unhealthy Levels of Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) in the Water Supply of Tropic Florida Homes

Total dissolved solids — often called TDS, dissolved solids, or dissolved salts — is the term for minerals, salts and small ions dissolved in your water. These dissolved materials can come from natural sources like rock and soil or enter through treatment and distribution systems. When TDS levels are high, homeowners may notice metallic, salty or bitter tastes and more spotting on glass and fixtures. Remember that TDS is a measurement of many constituents, so the best approach depends on which dissolved components make up the total.

High TDS usually reflects dissolved salts such as sodium, calcium, magnesium, chloride and sulfate along with other tiny ions. While some are harmless minerals, elevated dissolved solids can make drinking water less appealing and accelerate wear on appliances that heat or evaporate water. In humid subtropical Tropic, mineral scaling, film on shower doors, faster build-up on fixtures and reduced soap lather are common signals that dissolved salts may be affecting your home. A proper water test will measure overall TDS and indicate whether dissolved salts are driving the issue.