Water is an essential resource for sustaining life, and its quality plays a vital role in our overall well-being. While tap water is generally considered safe for consumption, there are instances where it may contain high levels of total dissolved solids (TDS). In this article, we will explore the implications of elevated TDS in tap water and how ZeroWater’s 5-stage filtration system works.

Understanding TDS

TDS refers to the collective presence of inorganic and organic substances that are dissolved in water. These can include minerals, salts, metals, and various other compounds. While many dissolved solids are harmless, elevated levels of TDS can impact the taste, odour, and potential health effects of the water we consume.

The Consequences of High TDS in Tap Water

Taste and Odor

Water with high TDS often exhibits a noticeable difference in taste and odour. It can have a distinct metallic, salty, or bitter flavour that is unappealing to many individuals. These characteristics can make it difficult to enjoy drinking tap water regularly. The removal of unpleasant flavours and odours enhances the drinking experience, encouraging individuals to consume an adequate amount of water for hydration.

Health Concerns

While TDS are not inherently harmful, certain dissolved substances present in high concentrations can pose health risks. For instance, excessive levels of lead, arsenic, or other heavy metals can have adverse effects on human health, particularly when consumed over a prolonged period. The elimination of contaminants and pollutants reduces the risk of long-term health effects and ensures the water you drink is of high quality and safe for consumption.

The Advantages of ZeroWater Filters

ZeroWater uses a 5-stage filtration system which removes virtually all dissolved solids as opposed to Brita Filter’s three-stage system, or standard water filters that usually use a 2-stage process, leaving around half the amount of TDS. Let us look at each stage in turn:

Stage 1 – Coarse Filter Screen: At the initial stage, the water passes through a coarse filter screen, which helps to remove larger particles such as sediment, rust, and debris which contribute to the cloudiness of your water. This pre-filtering process prevents these contaminants from clogging the subsequent stages and extends the lifespan of the subsequent filters.
Stage 2 – Foam Distributor: After passing through the coarse filter screen, the water flows through a foam distributor. This component helps to evenly distribute the water across the filter, ensuring effective filtration throughout the entire cartridge.
Stage 3 – Multi-Layer Activated Carbon and Oxidation-Reduction Alloy: In this stage, the water encounters a blend of activated carbon and an oxidation-reduction alloy. The activated carbon is highly effective in reducing chlorine taste and odour, as well as virtually eliminating all organic compounds that may be present in the water. The oxidation-reduction alloy aids in the reduction of heavy metals like lead and mercury through the process of oxidation and reduction reactions.
Stage 4 – Dual Comprehensive Ion Exchange Resin: The water then passes through a dual comprehensive ion exchange resin layer. This stage targets inorganic contaminants, including dissolved solids like calcium, magnesium, fluoride, and various other metals. The ion exchange resin works by replacing undesirable ions with beneficial ones, resulting in further purification of your water.
Stage 5 – Ultra-Fine Screen and Non-Woven Membrane Layers: In the final stage, the water flows through ultra-fine screen and non-woven membrane layers. These layers are designed to capture any remaining fine particles and contaminants that may have escaped the previous stages, ensuring a final polish to the water before it reaches your glass.