How the TDS Controller Works?

A Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) controller is a feature in some water purifiers that allows you to adjust and control the level of minerals (dissolved solids) in the purified water. These dissolved solids can include essential minerals like calcium, magnesium, and potassium, which are beneficial for health and contribute to the taste of the water.

How the TDS Controller Works:

1. Blending Mechanism: The TDS controller works by blending a portion of the water that has been filtered but not completely purified (often bypassing the RO membrane) with the fully purified water. This process reintroduces some of the natural minerals into the water, increasing the TDS to a desired level.
2. Adjustable Valve: Typically, the TDS controller consists of an adjustable valve that controls the ratio of purified to non-purified water. By adjusting this valve, you can increase or decrease the TDS level according to your preference or health requirements.
3. Customizing Mineral Content: The controller allows users to retain a balanced level of minerals in their water. Without a TDS controller, an RO system might remove too many minerals, leading to water that tastes “flat” and lacks essential minerals. The TDS controller helps maintain a natural taste by restoring a certain level of these minerals.

Benefits of a TDS Controller:

• Improved Taste: By allowing some minerals to remain in the water, the TDS controller helps improve the taste. Pure RO water can taste slightly bland because it lacks minerals, so a TDS controller can make the water taste fresher and more natural.
• Health Benefits: Some minerals, such as calcium and magnesium, are essential for good health. A TDS controller can retain these beneficial minerals, making the water healthier.
• Customizable TDS Levels: Different people have different preferences for water taste and mineral content. A TDS controller allows you to set the desired TDS level based on your specific needs.

How to Use the TDS Controller:

1. Test the TDS Level: Use a TDS meter to measure the current TDS level in your water. Most RO purifiers with a TDS controller have a recommended range, typically between 50-150 ppm (parts per million), depending on your preference and local water quality.
2. Adjust the Controller: Turn the TDS adjustment knob or valve to either increase or decrease the TDS level. Turning the valve one way will increase the TDS (more minerals) by allowing more non-RO water to mix in, while turning it the other way will decrease the TDS (less minerals).
3. Re-test the Water: After making adjustments, re-test the water to ensure it meets your desired TDS level. It may take a few tries to get it just right.

Important Considerations:

• Balance: While minerals are beneficial, too high a TDS level can result in water that is overly hard or even unhealthy, especially if the source water contains harmful contaminants. It’s essential to find a balance that retains beneficial minerals without compromising water purity.
• Filter Maintenance: If you have a TDS controller, it’s important to maintain all filters in the system, especially the pre-filters. Since some unpurified water is mixed in, high-quality filtration is crucial to ensure that only safe minerals remain.
• Compatibility: Not all water purifiers come with a TDS controller, and its presence is more common in systems that use RO. The feature is particularly useful when the source water is very soft (low TDS) or when mineral retention is desired.

In summary, a TDS controller enhances the versatility of a water purifier by allowing you to customize the mineral content and TDS level, leading to healthier and better-tasting water that suits individual preferences.