Water pH correction

[maverick302]

We had the well water tested, came back with traces of lead and copper, and a slightly low pH (6.11). Doing some research, the EPA suggests pH between 6.5 and 8.5. The acidity can supposedly cause the metals in the water via plumbing corrosion. There are point-of-entry neutralizing systems available, but I want to know more. Is 6.11 really bad enough to need treatment? Does groundwater pH vary over time or is it likely I'll have similar results a year from now? Are the more expensive neutralizers markedly better than cheap options?

 

[Pen & Wrench]

You might check with your state rural water association. I don't know much about the pH but I would be concerned about the lead.

 

[jayemm]

When visiting a water treatment plant many years ago, one of the operators said that the pH changed (in the spring I believe) due to the decomposition of the tree leaves on the ground from the prior fall.

 

[dfiler2]

6 is considered to be in the neutral range, I wouldn't worry about it

 

[P0234]

Who tested it? An independent testing (only) company or one that offers remediation services? If its a totally independent, then I'd be a bit more concerned. Did you talk to the lab out the test results?

We're on well too and I tickle that 6.5 limit. A PO of our house had a soda ash injection system installed but I have it turned off because it wasn't changing the PH, it's still on a todo list but at 6.5, I'm not losing sleep over it. Our water came up super clean though, the lab said it was better than most bottled water. We have an under sink filter to catch anything that might come up as time changes.

 

[thammel]

I think the low 6's calls for an acid neutralizer. I have one and a softener after it. I did all the installation myself. I also have pre and post filters. You don't want to risk slowly eating away at any copper or brass fittings.

 

[mm08822]

Neutral pH is 7.0

Water pH and impurities can vary seasonally. I wouldn't reply on a single test but rather take samples every 2 months or quarterly before you jump to remediation. Understand the entire need before randomly adding sub-systems. Installation order is important.

Also testing services should be able to give some common traits for your area/zip code.

 

[zak77]

I have acidic water and it can corrode copper pipes and cause leaks. Yes the acidity will fluxuate over the hear but not significantly. Your number isnt all that bad so you have 2 options: treat the water or make ur water system acid friendly. That'd mean having pex supply lines and plastic fittings. I chose to treat the water w/ a neutralizer and softener. Not entirely sure whats in the neutralizer but most use calcite and corosex. The calcite makes the water hard so thats why you'd need a softener also. You can diy a system or hire a well company, my system was $2500 about 4 years ago installed by my well guy.