Glossary
TDS – Total Dissolved Solids.
TDS means the total measure of all soluble substances dissolved in pool water. Distilled or pure water has a TDS level of 0 ppm. In Australia, drinking water has a typical TDS level of between 200 – 400 ppm.
Every time you add anything to your pool water, you are increasing its TDS levels. This includes chemicals for disinfection and pH adjustment, conditioners, algaecides, airborne pollutants (leaves, dust etc), bather waste as well as dissolved minerals.
TDS levels and types of pools.
AIS defines fresh, mineral and salt water pools as follows:
- Freshwater pool TDS 1,200 – 2,500 ppm
- Mineral water pool TDS 2,500 – 5,000 ppm
- Salt water pool TDS 5,000 – 35,000 ppm (sea water)
Freshwater pools.
The term ‘freshwater’ is used to distinguish between conventional chlorine, salt water or mineral water pools. Approximately 3% only of the world’s total water supply is freshwater.
In the case of a freshwater swimming pool, TDS levels are generally 1,200 – 2,500 ppm.
AIS’ freshwater chlorinators create a freshwater swimming experience by operating at low TDS levels whilst still ensuring the water is safe. Water is odour and taste free and feels softer and kinder to skin, eyes and hair.
AIS’ freshwater chlorinators disinfect the pool automatically using the salts and minerals already present in freshwater.
Mineral water pools.
The term ‘mineral water’ is used to distinguish between conventional chlorine, salt or freshwater pools.
In the case of a mineral water swimming pool TDS levels are generally 2,500 – 5,000 ppm.
Mineral water chlorinators create chlorine in the pool water automatically using a combination of salts and minerals such as magnesium chloride, potassium chloride, calcium chloride and others.
Mineral water pools are generally half as ‘salty’ as a traditional salt water pool and are for those wanting to enjoy a day spa-like experience in their own home.
Saltwater pools.
The term ‘saltwater’ is used to distinguish between conventional chlorine, mineral of freshwater pools.
In the case of a salt water swimming pool, TDS levels are generally around 5,000 ppm.
Salt water chlorinators create chlorine in the pool water automatically with the addition of traditional sodium chloride (salt) in the pool. Bags of salt are readily available from pool supplier shops, supermarkets and hardware stores.
Salt water pools are cost effective, safe and easy to maintain.
TDS Top up.
In cases where low TDS levels exist or are lower than the desired level for your chosen AIS System to operate, the addition of salts/minerals may be required.
AIS can assist you with establishing the right TDS levels for the AIS System of your choice.
Use the handy TDS Chart below to choose the right AIS Product for your needs