pH (Acceptable Range = 6.5 – 8.5)
The pH of water is a measure of its acidity or alkalinity. A low pH indicates acidic water, which is therefore likely to be corrosive to household plumbing such as copper pipes. In older homes (prior to mid to late 1980’s) the plumbing may also contain lead in the soldered joints. Corrosive water will dissolve these metals from the plumbing into the water. Dissolved copper & lead in drinking water can be a health concern, and can also be a maintenance concern as the water corrodes the plumbing in the home eventually causing water leaks.
For more information, please refer to the DES fact sheet:
WD-DWGB-3-4 Corrosivity of Water Supplies