The pH of drinking water should ideally be between 6.5 and 8.5 for optimal taste and safety, as per EPA guidelines.
The pH level of drinking water is more than just a number – it’s a crucial factor that affects both your health and your plumbing. While pure water has a neutral pH of 7, the ideal range for drinking water is slightly broader. Let’s explore what science says about water pH and how it impacts you.
The Science of Water pH
pH measures how acidic or alkaline a substance is on a scale from 0 to 14. The EPA recommends keeping drinking water between 6.5 and 8.5 pH for optimal safety and taste.
Understanding the pH Scale
- 0-6.9: Acidic (lemon juice = 2, coffee = 5)
- 7: Neutral (pure water)
- 7.1-14: Alkaline (baking soda = 9, bleach = 13)
Why pH Matters for Drinking Water
Water pH affects both health and infrastructure. The right balance prevents pipe corrosion while ensuring water safety.
Risks of Low pH (Acidic Water)
Water below 6.5 pH can:
- Leach heavy metals from pipes (lead, copper)
- Cause metallic taste
- Damage plumbing over time
Considerations for High pH (Alkaline Water)
While generally safe, water above 8.5 pH may:
- Taste bitter or soda-like
- Cause dry, itchy skin for some
- Lead to mineral buildup in pipes
Alkaline Water: Benefits and Myths
Alkaline water (pH 8-9) has gained popularity, but research shows mixed results. Some small studies suggest benefits for acid reflux and hydration, while other claims lack scientific backing.
According to Healthline, there’s little evidence that alkaline water is significantly healthier than regular water for most people.
Testing and Adjusting Your Water pH
You can test water pH with:
- Home test strips
- Digital pH meters
- Professional water testing
Adjustment Methods
| Problem | Solution |
|---|---|
| Water too acidic (pH < 6.5) | Install a neutralizing filter with calcium carbonate |
| Water too alkaline (pH > 8.5) | Use a reverse osmosis system or acid injection |
Special Considerations
Well owners should test water pH annually, as groundwater can vary. Municipal water typically stays within safe ranges, but old pipes may affect quality.
For those interested in water quality for juicing, check out our guide to the best non-toxic juicers that work well with various water types.
Beyond pH: Other Water Quality Factors
While pH is important, also consider:
- Mineral content
- Chlorine levels
- Presence of contaminants
As noted by UCLA Health, our kidneys naturally regulate body pH, making extreme water pH adjustments unnecessary for most people.
Water pH for Specific Uses
Different activities may call for different water pH levels:
For Drinking
6.5-8.5 pH is ideal (EPA standard)
For Juicing
Neutral pH water (7) works best with most fruits and vegetables. Learn more about juicing leafy greens with the right water balance.
For Coffee/Tea
Slightly acidic water (6.5-7.5) enhances flavor extraction
