At My Water Sampling Box, we understand the importance of clear and reliable information about water quality. This page is designed to help you navigate the key determinants we test for, why they matter, and how they relate to the Taumata Arowai Drinking Water Quality Assurance Rules. Our goal is to provide a straightforward guide to ensure your water is safe, healthy, and meets all regulatory standards.
Note: The advice provided here is based on the most accurate and reliable information available at the time of development. We recommend staying informed of any updates or changes to ensure continued compliance and safety.
Ammonia
Determinant Presence in Water and Potential Effects on Health and the Environment
Can be naturally occurring, often from agricultural runoff or sewage; affects taste and odor, toxic to aquatic life.
Drinking Water Limits (MAV)
N/A
Aesthetic Values
≤ 1.5 mg/L
Disinfection and Operational Limits
Ammonia can interfere with chlorine disinfection, requiring higher doses; not commonly addressed by other disinfectants.
Water Quality Issues
Taste, odour (alkaline conditions)
Recommended Water Treatment Options
Aeration, activated carbon filtration.
What to do if the result exceeds the Maximum Acceptable Value (MAV), Aesthetic Value, or Operational Limit:
Monitor taste, odor, consult with water quality experts.
Antimony
Determinant Presence in Water and Potential Effects on Health and the Environment
Metal leached from industrial waste or old plumbing; can cause gastrointestinal issues and long-term health risks.
Drinking Water Limits (MAV)
0.02 mg/L
Aesthetic Values
N/A
Disinfection and Operational Limits
No direct disinfection limit, but its presence signals the need for comprehensive treatment due to potential health risks.
Water Quality Issues
Health risks
Recommended Water Treatment Options
Filtration (coagulation, sedimentation), source reduction.
What to do if the result exceeds the Maximum Acceptable Value (MAV), Aesthetic Value, or Operational Limit:
Investigate industrial discharges, consider alternative water sources, consult with water quality experts.
Arsenic
Determinant Presence in Water and Potential Effects on Health and the Environment
Toxic element from natural deposits or industrial pollution; linked to cancer and other serious health problems.
Drinking Water Limits (MAV)
0.01 mg/L
Aesthetic Values
N/A
Disinfection and Operational Limits
Disinfection methods do not remove arsenic; specialized filtration or adsorption is required.
Water Quality Issues
Health risks
Recommended Water Treatment Options
Filtration (coagulation, sedimentation), source reduction.
What to do if the result exceeds the Maximum Acceptable Value (MAV), Aesthetic Value, or Operational Limit:
Investigate industrial discharges, consider alternative water sources, consult with water quality experts.
Benzo(a)pyrene
Determinant Presence in Water and Potential Effects on Health and the Environment
Harmful organic compound from industrial pollution; a known carcinogen with significant health risks.
Drinking Water Limits (MAV)
N/A
Aesthetic Values
N/A
Disinfection and Operational Limits
Resistant to typical disinfection methods; advanced oxidation processes like ozone are more effective.
Water Quality Issues
Health risks
Recommended Water Treatment Options
Activated carbon filtration
What to do if the result exceeds the Maximum Acceptable Value (MAV), Aesthetic Value, or Operational Limit:
Investigate combustion processes, consider alternative water sources, consult with water quality experts.
Boron
Determinant Presence in Water and Potential Effects on Health and the Environment
Found in detergents, fertilizers, and industrial processes; excessive levels may cause reproductive issues.
Drinking Water Limits (MAV)
2.4 mg/L
Aesthetic Values
N/A
Disinfection and Operational Limits
Not directly affected by disinfection; requires specialized treatment such as ion exchange or reverse osmosis.
Water Quality Issues
Taste
Recommended Water Treatment Options
Filtration (ion exchange), source reduction
What to do if the result exceeds the Maximum Acceptable Value (MAV), Aesthetic Value, or Operational Limit:
Monitor taste, consider alternative water sources, consult with water quality experts.
Bromate
Determinant Presence in Water and Potential Effects on Health and the Environment
Forms during ozone disinfection; a potential carcinogen with serious health risks.
Drinking Water Limits (MAV)
0.01 mg/L
Aesthetic Values
N/A
Disinfection and Operational Limits
A byproduct of ozone disinfection; limits are strictly regulated due to its carcinogenic nature.
Water Quality Issues
Health risks
Recommended Water Treatment Options
Filtration (activated carbon), source reduction
What to do if the result exceeds the Maximum Acceptable Value (MAV), Aesthetic Value, or Operational Limit:
Investigate ozonation processes, consider alternative water sources, consult with water quality experts.
Bromide
Determinant Presence in Water and Potential Effects on Health and the Environment
Naturally occurring ion from seawater intrusion or industrial discharge; can form harmful byproducts like bromate.
Drinking Water Limits (MAV)
N/A
Aesthetic Values
N/A
Disinfection and Operational Limits
Forms harmful byproducts like bromate when ozonated; control bromide levels to manage risks.
Water Quality Issues
Taste, odour
Recommended Water Treatment Options
Filtration (coagulation, sedimentation), source reduction
What to do if the result exceeds the Maximum Acceptable Value (MAV), Aesthetic Value, or Operational Limit:
Investigate industrial discharges, consider alternative water sources, consult with water quality experts.
Cadmium
Determinant Presence in Water and Potential Effects on Health and the Environment
Toxic metal from industrial discharge or old pipes; long-term exposure can cause kidney damage.
Drinking Water Limits (MAV)
0.004 mg/L
Aesthetic Values
N/A
Disinfection and Operational Limits
Not removed by disinfection; requires specialized filtration to protect against toxicity.
Water Quality Issues
Health risks
Recommended Water Treatment Options
Filtration (coagulation, sedimentation), source reduction
What to do if the result exceeds the Maximum Acceptable Value (MAV), Aesthetic Value, or Operational Limit:
Investigate industrial discharges, consider alternative water sources, consult with water quality experts.
Calcium
Determinant Presence in Water and Potential Effects on Health and the Environment
Mineral contributing to water hardness; not harmful but causes scaling in pipes and appliances.
Drinking Water Limits (MAV)
N/A
Aesthetic Values
N/A
Disinfection and Operational Limits
High calcium contributes to water hardness, which can affect UV and ozone systems by causing scaling.
Water Quality Issues
Scaling
Recommended Water Treatment Options
Filtration (water softening), desalination
What to do if the result exceeds the Maximum Acceptable Value (MAV), Aesthetic Value, or Operational Limit:
Monitor scaling, consider water softening if necessary, consult with water quality experts.
Chlorate
Determinant Presence in Water and Potential Effects on Health and the Environment
Disinfection byproduct of chlorine dioxide; can interfere with thyroid function over time.
Drinking Water Limits (MAV)
0.8 mg/L
Aesthetic Values
N/A
Disinfection and Operational Limits
Byproduct of chlorine dioxide disinfection; monitoring is crucial to avoid exceeding limits.
Water Quality Issues
Health risks
Recommended Water Treatment Options
Filtration (activated carbon), source reduction
What to do if the result exceeds the Maximum Acceptable Value (MAV), Aesthetic Value, or Operational Limit:
Investigate ozonation processes, consider alternative water sources, consult with water quality experts.
Chloride
Determinant Presence in Water and Potential Effects on Health and the Environment
Ion from saltwater intrusion or runoff; high levels cause salty taste and plumbing corrosion.
Drinking Water Limits (MAV)
N/A
Aesthetic Values
≤ 250 mg/L -- Taste threshold (counter ion dependent: sodium, calcium or potassium)
Disinfection and Operational Limits
Does not affect disinfection; however, high levels can corrode pipes and equipment.
Water Quality Issues
Taste
Recommended Water Treatment Options
Filtration (reverse osmosis), source reduction
What to do if the result exceeds the Maximum Acceptable Value (MAV), Aesthetic Value, or Operational Limit:
Monitor taste, consider alternative water sources, consult with water quality experts.
Chlorite
Determinant Presence in Water and Potential Effects on Health and the Environment
Disinfection byproduct of chlorine dioxide; prolonged exposure can cause anemia.
Drinking Water Limits (MAV)
0.8 mg/L
Aesthetic Values
N/A
Disinfection and Operational Limits
Byproduct of chlorine dioxide disinfection; strict limits are in place to prevent potential health risks.
Water Quality Issues
Health risks
Recommended Water Treatment Options
Filtration (activated carbon), source reduction
What to do if the result exceeds the Maximum Acceptable Value (MAV), Aesthetic Value, or Operational Limit:
Investigate ozonation processes, consider alternative water sources, consult with water quality experts.
Chromium
Determinant Presence in Water and Potential Effects on Health and the Environment
Metal from industrial pollution; hexavalent chromium is toxic and carcinogenic.
Drinking Water Limits (MAV)
0.05 mg/L
Aesthetic Values
N/A
Disinfection and Operational Limits
Not addressed by typical disinfection; requires specific treatment methods for removal, such as ion exchange.
Water Quality Issues
Health risks
Recommended Water Treatment Options
Filtration (coagulation, sedimentation), source reduction
What to do if the result exceeds the Maximum Acceptable Value (MAV), Aesthetic Value, or Operational Limit:
Investigate industrial discharges, consider alternative water sources, consult with water quality experts.
Conductivity
Determinant Presence in Water and Potential Effects on Health and the Environment
Measures water's ability to conduct electricity, indicating dissolved salts; high levels affect taste and cause corrosion.
Drinking Water Limits (MAV)
N/A
Aesthetic Values
N/A
Disinfection and Operational Limits
High conductivity indicates dissolved salts that may impact disinfection efficiency, especially in UV systems.
Water Quality Issues
Scaling
Recommended Water Treatment Options
Filtration (water softening), desalination
What to do if the result exceeds the Maximum Acceptable Value (MAV), Aesthetic Value, or Operational Limit:
Monitor scaling, consider water softening if necessary, consult with water quality experts.
Copper
Determinant Presence in Water and Potential Effects on Health and the Environment
Leaches from plumbing, especially in older homes; high levels cause stomach upset and long-term damage to liver or kidneys.
Drinking Water Limits (MAV)
2 mg/L
Aesthetic Values
≤ 1 mg/L -- Appearance
Disinfection and Operational Limits
Can be corroded by low pH, affecting water chemistry and interfering with disinfection.
Water Quality Issues
Taste, staining
Recommended Water Treatment Options
Filtration (activated carbon), corrosion control
What to do if the result exceeds the Maximum Acceptable Value (MAV), Aesthetic Value, or Operational Limit:
Monitor taste, staining, consider alternative water sources, consult with water quality experts.
Escherichia coli (E. coli)
Determinant Presence in Water and Potential Effects on Health and the Environment
Bacterium indicating fecal contamination; some strains can cause severe illness.
Drinking Water Limits (MAV)
Less than 1 in 100 mL
Aesthetic Values
N/A
Disinfection and Operational Limits
Key indicator for disinfection effectiveness; chlorine, chlorine dioxide, UV, and ozone are all effective against E. coli when properly applied.
Water Quality Issues
Health risks
Recommended Water Treatment Options
Boiling, disinfection (chlorination, UV treatment)
What to do if the result exceeds the Maximum Acceptable Value (MAV), Aesthetic Value, or Operational Limit:
Investigate contamination sources, consider alternative water sources, consult with water quality experts.
Fluoride
Determinant Presence in Water and Potential Effects on Health and the Environment
Added to prevent tooth decay; high levels cause dental and skeletal fluorosis.
Drinking Water Limits (MAV)
1.5 mg/L
Aesthetic Values
N/A
Disinfection and Operational Limits
Not removed by disinfection; controlled through dosage during water treatment processes.
Water Quality Issues
Dental health
Recommended Water Treatment Options
Filtration (activated alumina), source reduction
What to do if the result exceeds the Maximum Acceptable Value (MAV), Aesthetic Value, or Operational Limit:
Monitor dental health, consider alternative water sources, consult with water quality experts.
Hardness (or Total Hardness)
Determinant Presence in Water and Potential Effects on Health and the Environment
Caused by dissolved calcium and magnesium; not harmful, but causes scale buildup.
Drinking Water Limits (MAV)
N/A
Aesthetic Values
≤ 200 mg/L -- Scale deposition, scum formation (pH and alkalinity dependent)
Disinfection and Operational Limits
High hardness causes scaling, reducing UV effectiveness and damaging ozone and chlorine equipment. Concentrations of more than 120 mg/L can limit UV disinfection efficiency.
Water Quality Issues
Scaling
Recommended Water Treatment Options
Filtration (water softening), desalination
What to do if the result exceeds the Maximum Acceptable Value (MAV), Aesthetic Value, or Operational Limit:
Monitor scaling, consider water softening if necessary, consult with water quality experts.
Iron
Determinant Presence in Water and Potential Effects on Health and the Environment
Element from natural sources or corroded pipes; causes staining, metallic taste, and bacterial growth.
Drinking Water Limits (MAV)
N/A
Aesthetic Values
≤ 0.3 mg/L -- Staining of laundry and sanitary ware
Disinfection and Operational Limits
Iron can precipitate, causing fouling in UV systems and concentrations of more than 0.3 mg/L can limit UV disinfection efficiency.
Water Quality Issues
Taste, staining
Recommended Water Treatment Options
Filtration (activated carbon), iron removal, corrosion control
What to do if the result exceeds the Maximum Acceptable Value (MAV), Aesthetic Value, or Operational Limit:
Monitor taste, staining, consider alternative water sources, consult with water quality experts.
Langelier Saturation Index
Determinant Presence in Water and Potential Effects on Health and the Environment
Measures water's corrosive or scaling potential; determines if water deposits minerals or corrodes plumbing.
Drinking Water Limits (MAV)
N/A
Aesthetic Values
N/A
Disinfection and Operational Limits
Indicates scaling or corrosion potential; crucial for maintaining equipment longevity and disinfection effectiveness, especially in UV systems.
Water Quality Issues
The Langelier Saturation Index (LSI) is a measure used to assess the saturation of water with calcium carbonate, which is indicative of its scaling or corrosive potential.
The LSI is calculated using a formula that takes into account various water parameters, including pH, total alkalinity, calcium hardness, and water temperature.
The LSI is expressed as a numerical value, and the interpretation of this value provides insights into the water's scaling or corrosive tendencies:
LSI Score > 0: Scaling Tendency (Positive LSI):
A positive LSI indicates that the water is oversaturated with calcium carbonate, potentially leading to scale formation on surfaces such as pipes, fixtures, and appliances.
Scaling can reduce the efficiency of water heaters and other equipment that come into contact with water, causing a buildup of mineral deposits.
LSI Score = 0: Balanced Water:
A score of zero suggests that the water is in a state of equilibrium and is neither prone to scaling nor corrosive conditions.
LSI Score < 0: Corrosive Tendency (Negative LSI):
A negative LSI suggests that the water is undersaturated with calcium carbonate, which may lead to corrosion of metal pipes and fixtures.
Corrosion can result in the leaching of metals into the water, causing discoloration and potential health concerns.
The goal is to maintain a balanced LSI close to zero to minimize scaling and corrosion issues. Water treatment methods, such as adjusting pH, adding alkalinity, or using inhibitors, can be employed to bring the LSI into the desired range. It's important to note that the interpretation of LSI scores may vary based on specific water quality objectives, and consulting with water treatment professionals is recommended for accurate assessments and appropriate corrective measures.
Recommended Water Treatment Options
Filtration (water softening), pH adjustment
What to do if the result exceeds the Maximum Acceptable Value (MAV), Aesthetic Value, or Operational Limit:
Monitor scaling, consider water softening if necessary, consult with water quality experts.
Lead
Determinant Presence in Water and Potential Effects on Health and the Environment
Leaches from old pipes or fixtures; toxic even at low levels, particularly harmful to children.
Drinking Water Limits (MAV)
0.01 mg/L
Aesthetic Values
N/A
Disinfection and Operational Limits
Not removed by disinfection; requires corrosion control measures to prevent leaching into water.
Water Quality Issues
Health risks
Recommended Water Treatment Options
Filtration (activated carbon), corrosion control
What to do if the result exceeds the Maximum Acceptable Value (MAV), Aesthetic Value, or Operational Limit:
Investigate plumbing materials, consider alternative water sources, consult with water quality experts.
Magnesium
Determinant Presence in Water and Potential Effects on Health and the Environment
Mineral contributing to water hardness; high levels can cause laxative effects and scale buildup.
Drinking Water Limits (MAV)
N/A
Aesthetic Values
N/A
Disinfection and Operational Limits
Contributes to hardness and scaling, affecting the performance of UV and ozone disinfection systems.
Water Quality Issues
Scaling
Recommended Water Treatment Options
Filtration (water softening), desalination
What to do if the result exceeds the Maximum Acceptable Value (MAV), Aesthetic Value, or Operational Limit:
Monitor scaling, consider water softening if necessary, consult with water quality experts.
Manganese
Determinant Presence in Water and Potential Effects on Health and the Environment
Metal that can cause staining and a metallic taste; high levels may lead to neurological issues.
Drinking Water Limits (MAV)
0.4 mg/L -- Exposure to elevated levels of manganese in drinking water has been associated with potential adverse health effects. Long-term ingestion of high manganese concentrations may lead to neurological effects, including changes in behavior and cogn
Aesthetic Values
≤ 0.04 mg/L -- Staining of laundry ≤ 0.14 mg/L -- Taste threshold
Disinfection and Operational Limits
Causes staining and fouling, concentrations of more than 0.05 mg/L can limit UV disinfection efficiency, and must be removed prior to disinfection.
Water Quality Issues
Staining, Taste
Recommended Water Treatment Options
Filtration (coagulation, sedimentation), source reduction
What to do if the result exceeds the Maximum Acceptable Value (MAV), Aesthetic Value, or Operational Limit:
Investigate industrial discharges, consider alternative water sources, consult with water quality experts.
Mercury
Determinant Presence in Water and Potential Effects on Health and the Environment
Toxic metal from industrial pollution or natural sources; harmful to developing fetuses and young children.
Drinking Water Limits (MAV)
0.007 mg/L -- Inorganic mercury only
Aesthetic Values
N/A
Disinfection and Operational Limits
Not addressed by disinfection; requires specific treatment methods for removal due to its toxicity.
Water Quality Issues
Health risks
Recommended Water Treatment Options
Filtration (coagulation, sedimentation), source reduction
What to do if the result exceeds the Maximum Acceptable Value (MAV), Aesthetic Value, or Operational Limit:
Investigate industrial discharges, consider alternative water sources, consult with water quality experts.
Nickel
Determinant Presence in Water and Potential Effects on Health and the Environment
From industrial waste or corroded pipes; high levels cause skin rashes and allergic reactions.
Drinking Water Limits (MAV)
0.08 mg/L
Aesthetic Values
N/A
Disinfection and Operational Limits
Not removed by disinfection; like other metals, it requires specialized treatment.
Water Quality Issues
Health risks
Recommended Water Treatment Options
Filtration (coagulation, sedimentation), source reduction
What to do if the result exceeds the Maximum Acceptable Value (MAV), Aesthetic Value, or Operational Limit:
Investigate industrial discharges, consider alternative water sources, consult with water quality experts.
Nitrate
Determinant Presence in Water and Potential Effects on Health and the Environment
Often from agricultural runoff or sewage; high levels cause "blue baby syndrome" in infants.
Drinking Water Limits (MAV)
Nitrate, short-term -- 50 -- Expressed in mg/L as NO3, or 11.3 mg/L as NO3-N Nitrite, short-term -- 3 -- Expressed in mg/L as NO2 Nitrate and nitrite -- Σ ratio < 1 -- The sum of the ratio of the concentrations of nitrate and nitrite to each of their respective MAVs must not exceed 1
Aesthetic Values
N/A
Disinfection and Operational Limits
Not addressed by disinfection; requires ion exchange or biological denitrification.
Water Quality Issues
Health risks
Recommended Water Treatment Options
Filtration (ion exchange), source reduction
What to do if the result exceeds the Maximum Acceptable Value (MAV), Aesthetic Value, or Operational Limit:
Investigate agricultural runoff, consider alternative water sources, consult with water quality experts.
pH
Determinant Presence in Water and Potential Effects on Health and the Environment
Measures acidity or alkalinity; extreme levels cause corrosion and health risks from leached metals.
Drinking Water Limits (MAV)
N/A
Aesthetic Values
7.0–8.5 -- Ideally 7.4 – 8.0. Most water with a low pH has a high plumbosolvency. Water with a high pH has a soapy taste and feel.
Disinfection and Operational Limits
Critical for disinfection efficiency; pH levels must be adjusted for optimal chlorine and chlorine dioxide effectiveness.
Water Quality Issues
Corrosion, scaling
Recommended Water Treatment Options
Filtration (pH adjustment), corrosion control
What to do if the result exceeds the Maximum Acceptable Value (MAV), Aesthetic Value, or Operational Limit:
Monitor corrosion, scaling, consider alternative water sources, consult with water quality experts.
Potassium
Determinant Presence in Water and Potential Effects on Health and the Environment
Naturally occurring mineral; generally harmless but can affect individuals with kidney issues.
Drinking Water Limits (MAV)
N/A
Aesthetic Values
N/A
Disinfection and Operational Limits
No direct impact on disinfection, but high levels indicate the need for specialized treatment.
Water Quality Issues
Taste
Recommended Water Treatment Options
Filtration (ion exchange), source reduction
What to do if the result exceeds the Maximum Acceptable Value (MAV), Aesthetic Value, or Operational Limit:
Monitor taste, consider alternative water sources, consult with water quality experts.
Sample Filtration
Determinant Presence in Water and Potential Effects on Health and the Environment
Removes particulate matter before analysis; ensures accurate results and effective water treatment.
Drinking Water Limits (MAV)
N/A
Aesthetic Values
N/A
Disinfection and Operational Limits
Essential pre-treatment step to remove particulates that can shield microorganisms from disinfection.
Water Quality Issues
Testing accuracy
Recommended Water Treatment Options
Follow laboratory guidelines for sample collection and filtration
What to do if the result exceeds the Maximum Acceptable Value (MAV), Aesthetic Value, or Operational Limit:
Follow laboratory guidelines for sample collection and filtration, consult with water quality experts.
Silica
Determinant Presence in Water and Potential Effects on Health and the Environment
Naturally occurring mineral causing scaling; harmless to health but affects water systems.
Drinking Water Limits (MAV)
N/A
Aesthetic Values
N/A
Disinfection and Operational Limits
Contributes to scaling, particularly in UV systems; manage to maintain disinfection efficiency.
Water Quality Issues
Scaling
Recommended Water Treatment Options
Filtration (coagulation, sedimentation), source reduction
What to do if the result exceeds the Maximum Acceptable Value (MAV), Aesthetic Value, or Operational Limit:
Monitor scaling, consider alternative water sources, consult with water quality experts.
Sodium
Determinant Presence in Water and Potential Effects on Health and the Environment
From natural sources, softeners, or industrial discharge; high levels affect low-sodium diets and hypertension.
Drinking Water Limits (MAV)
N/A
Aesthetic Values
≤ 200 mg/L -- Taste threshold (counter ion dependent)
Disinfection and Operational Limits
No direct impact on disinfection, but high levels may indicate other water quality issues that need attention.
Water Quality Issues
Taste
Recommended Water Treatment Options
Filtration (reverse osmosis), source reduction
What to do if the result exceeds the Maximum Acceptable Value (MAV), Aesthetic Value, or Operational Limit:
Monitor taste, consider alternative water sources, consult with water quality experts.
Sulphate
Determinant Presence in Water and Potential Effects on Health and the Environment
Naturally occurring compound causing a bitter taste; high levels have laxative effects.
Drinking Water Limits (MAV)
N/A
Aesthetic Values
≤ 250 mg/L --Taste threshold
Disinfection and Operational Limits
Not directly addressed by disinfection; high levels can contribute to scaling and corrosion.
Water Quality Issues
Taste
Recommended Water Treatment Options
Filtration (reverse osmosis), source reduction
What to do if the result exceeds the Maximum Acceptable Value (MAV), Aesthetic Value, or Operational Limit:
Monitor taste, consider alternative water sources, consult with water quality experts.
Total Alkalinity
Determinant Presence in Water and Potential Effects on Health and the Environment
Measures water's ability to neutralize acids; affects pH stability, with high levels causing scaling and low levels causing corrosion.
Drinking Water Limits (MAV)
N/A
Aesthetic Values
N/A
Disinfection and Operational Limits
Influences pH balance, which is crucial for maintaining effective chlorine disinfection.
Water Quality Issues
pH stability
Recommended Water Treatment Options
Filtration (pH adjustment), corrosion control
What to do if the result exceeds the Maximum Acceptable Value (MAV), Aesthetic Value, or Operational Limit:
Monitor pH stability, consider alternative water sources, consult with water quality experts.
Total Coliforms
Determinant Presence in Water and Potential Effects on Health and the Environment
Group of bacteria indicating potential pathogen contamination; suggests further testing and possible treatment.
Drinking Water Limits (MAV)
N/A
Aesthetic Values
N/A
Disinfection and Operational Limits
Indicator of microbial contamination; chlorine, chlorine dioxide, UV, and ozone are all effective at eliminating coliforms when used properly.
Water Quality Issues
Health risks
Recommended Water Treatment Options
Boiling, disinfection (chlorination, UV treatment)
What to do if the result exceeds the Maximum Acceptable Value (MAV), Aesthetic Value, or Operational Limit:
Investigate contamination sources, consider alternative water sources, consult with water quality experts.
Total Dissolved Solids (TDS)
Determinant Presence in Water and Potential Effects on Health and the Environment
Measures the combined content of inorganic and organic substances; high levels affect taste and cause scaling or corrosion.
Drinking Water Limits (MAV)
N/A
Aesthetic Values
≤ 1000 mg/L -- Taste may become unacceptable from 600–1200 mg/L
Disinfection and Operational Limits
High TDS can affect disinfection by reducing UV penetration and causing corrosion in ozone and chlorine systems.
Water Quality Issues
Scaling, taste
Recommended Water Treatment Options
Filtration (reverse osmosis), desalination
What to do if the result exceeds the Maximum Acceptable Value (MAV), Aesthetic Value, or Operational Limit:
Monitor scaling, consider alternative water sources, consult with water quality experts.
Turbidity
Determinant Presence in Water and Potential Effects on Health and the Environment
Measures water cloudiness; high levels indicate suspended particles, shielding microorganisms and interfering with disinfection.
Drinking Water Limits (MAV)
N/A
Aesthetic Values
≤ 5 NTU -- Appearance
Disinfection and Operational Limits
High turbidity shields microorganisms from UV and chlorine, reducing disinfection effectiveness; must be minimized for effective treatment.
Water Quality Issues
Aesthetic concerns
Recommended Water Treatment Options
Filtration (sedimentation, coagulation), source reduction
What to do if the result exceeds the Maximum Acceptable Value (MAV), Aesthetic Value, or Operational Limit:
Investigate suspended particles, sediments, consider alternative water sources, consult with water quality experts.
Ultraviolet Transmittance (UVT@254nm)
Determinant Presence in Water and Potential Effects on Health and the Environment
Measures water clarity for UV disinfection; low UVT reduces the effectiveness of UV light in killing pathogens.
Drinking Water Limits (MAV)
N/A
Aesthetic Values
N/A
Disinfection and Operational Limits
Measures water clarity for UV disinfection; low UVT, less than 75%, means reduced effectiveness of UV disinfection.
Water Quality Issues
UV disinfection efficiency
Recommended Water Treatment Options
Filtration (UV transmittance improvement), source reduction
What to do if the result exceeds the Maximum Acceptable Value (MAV), Aesthetic Value, or Operational Limit:
Monitor UV disinfection efficiency, consider alternative water sources, consult with water quality experts.
Zinc
Determinant Presence in Water and Potential Effects on Health and the Environment
From industrial discharge or corroded pipes; high levels cause stomach upset and a metallic taste.
Drinking Water Limits (MAV)
5 mg/L
Aesthetic Values
≤ 1.5 mg/L -- Taste threshold
Disinfection and Operational Limits
Not addressed by disinfection; like other metals, requires specialized treatment for removal.
Water Quality Issues
Taste
Recommended Water Treatment Options
Filtration (activated carbon), corrosion control
What to do if the result exceeds the Maximum Acceptable Value (MAV), Aesthetic Value, or Operational Limit:
Monitor taste, consider alternative water sources, consult with water quality experts.
