pH
A measure of how acidic or alkaline water is, on a scale from 0 (acidic) to 14 (alkaline).
pH stands for “potential of hydrogen” and measures the concentration of hydrogen ions in water. The scale runs from 0 to 14, where 7 is neutral.
Why it matters
The Australian Drinking Water Guidelines (ADWG) recommend a pH between 6.5 and 8.5 for drinking water. Water outside this range can:
- Below 6.5 (acidic): Corrode copper and lead pipes, leaching metals into your water. May taste sour.
- Above 8.5 (alkaline): Cause scale build-up in pipes and reduce the effectiveness of chlorine disinfection.
Typical Australian values
Most Australian tap water falls between 7.0 and 8.0. Bore water and rainwater tanks can have lower pH values, sometimes below 6.0.
How it’s measured
pH is measured using an electronic probe or indicator chemicals. It has no physical unit — it is expressed simply as a number on the pH scale.
Related Terms
Check Your Water
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Disclaimer: Glossary definitions are provided for general educational purposes only and do not constitute medical advice or professional guidance. For specific health concerns about your drinking water, consult a qualified health professional. See our Terms of Use.