When it comes to water quality, one of the most commonly discussed metrics is TDS – Total Dissolved Solids. But what does TDS really tell you about your tap water, and how should you interpret the results from a TDS meter?

In this article, we’ll break down everything UK homeowners need to know about TDS levels, what’s considered healthy, and how Aura’s reverse osmosis filtration systems help you control it.

What Is TDS?

TDS stands for Total Dissolved Solids – the combined content of all inorganic and organic substances present in water in molecular, ionised, or micro-granular form. These may include:

• Calcium and magnesium (hardness minerals)
• Chlorides, sulfates, and nitrates
• Heavy metals like lead or arsenic
• Salts and other dissolved impurities

TDS is measured in parts per million (ppm). A basic digital TDS meter gives you a quick estimate of how many solids are dissolved in your water.

What’s a Good TDS Range?

Here’s a general guide to TDS levels:

TDS Level (ppm)	Water Quality
0 – 50	Very low (ideal for RO drinking water)
50 – 150	Excellent
150 – 300	Acceptable
300 – 500	High – may affect taste or health
500+	Unsafe – not recommended for drinking

Does Lower TDS Mean Healthier Water?

Not always. While high TDS often indicates excess minerals or contaminants, low TDS doesn’t automatically mean “pure.” For example:

• Spring water may have natural minerals and still be healthy
• Water with zero TDS might lack essential electrolytes unless re-mineralised

That’s why Aura’s reverse osmosis systems offer optional remineralisation stages, restoring essential minerals for taste and balance.

How to Measure TDS at Home

Using a digital TDS meter is simple:

1. Turn on the meter and dip the sensor into a glass of water
2. Wait for the reading to stabilise
3. Compare results to the TDS chart above

We recommend testing both tap water and your filtered water to see the difference Aura’s systems make.

Why TDS Readings Matter

Tracking TDS levels can help you:

• Identify potential water quality issues
• Decide when to replace your filters
• Ensure your drinking water is within a healthy range

Aura RO Systems: TDS Control You Can Trust

Aura’s multi-stage reverse osmosis systems significantly reduce TDS, removing over 99% of dissolved solids. The result?

• Cleaner, clearer, better-tasting water
• Optimised hydration for your body and appliances
• Peace of mind with every glass