The pH value of tap water in Seattle, USA, typically falls within a range of 7.5 to 8.5, with a slight increase of up to 0.2 pH units 95% of the time and up to 0.4 pH units 100% of the time. This is due to the water treatment process that ensures the water is safe for consumption. However, this pH value may not be ideal for certain applications, such as coffee brewing or operating certain equipment.
Understanding the pH of Seattle’s Tap Water
Seattle’s tap water is soft, with a TDS (Total Dissolved Solids) of around 40-50 ppm. It is all surface water, heavily disinfected with chlorine, and has low mineral content. The softness of the water can lead to higher pH values, which is unusual but not harmful. The pH value can range between 7.0 and 7.4, even with the soft water.
Factors Affecting the pH
There are no significant contaminants or chemicals present in Seattle’s tap water that would affect its pH value. The water is tested for over 200 compounds, including regulated contaminants, and is monitored throughout the collection and distribution process. However, it is essential to note that the EPA regulates only about 90 substances, and there are thousands of potential contaminants that may not be fully understood yet.
Balancing the pH of Seattle’s Tap Water
To balance the pH value of Seattle’s tap water, you can use various methods, such as adding a small amount of white vinegar or lemon juice to lower the pH or baking soda to raise it. For coffee brewing, a pH value between 6.5 and 7.5 is recommended. However, it is crucial to monitor the pH value regularly, as even slight changes can affect the taste and quality of the coffee.
Removing Fluoride from Seattle’s Tap Water
If you want to remove fluoride from Seattle’s tap water, a reverse osmosis water filter system is the best option. Other methods, such as carbon filters and boiling, will not remove fluoride.
Conclusion
In summary, Seattle’s tap water has a pH value between 7.5 and 8.5, which is slightly higher than the ideal range for some applications. However, it is safe for consumption and has low levels of regulated contaminants. To balance the pH value or remove fluoride, you can use various methods, such as adding white vinegar or lemon juice or using a reverse osmosis water filter system.
References:
– Seattle city water vs distilled + TWW vs filters : r/espresso – Reddit
– Drinking Water Quality – Seattle.gov
– Seattle Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink the City’s Tap … – HomeWater
– Seattle water – Home-Barista.com
– 2020 Drinking Water Quality Report – Seattle.gov
– Very Soft Water, High PH – Seattle/Vancouver BC