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Water properties

Explore key terms and concepts that describe water’s unique properties.

pH

pH is a measure of the acidity or alkalinity of a substance. It is measured on a scale from 1-14. The pH of drinking water should ideally be between 6.5 and 8.5. Some disinfectants are pH-dependent and may not work as efficiently if the pH balance is not at their recommended level. 

Plumbosolvency

Plumbosolvency describes the ability of water to absorb lead and other metals. In New Zealand, most drinking water is plumbosolvent as products containing lead may be present in distribution systems and individual properties. Both drinking water suppliers and individuals need to take steps to protect against the risk of lead contamination. 

To reduce any health risk, you should flush at least a mugful of water from your drinking-water tap each morning before use, and after any extended absence from your property.  

Read more about plumbosolvency.

Turbidity

Turbidity is the haziness or cloudiness of water caused by suspended particles and dissolved organic matter. Turbidity reduces the effectiveness of many treatments that make water safe for drinking. It can block filters designed to remove pathogens and small particles from water, decrease the effectiveness of ultraviolet treatment and lower the effectiveness of chemical disinfectants such as chlorine. Turbidity is measured in Nephelometric Turbidity Units, commonly referred to as NTU. 

UV transmittance

Ultraviolet (UV) transmittance is a measure of how well UV light passes through water. It is measured as a percentage (%UVT), with the higher the number the more effective UV treatment is. Most UV systems will shut off automatically if UVT is too low. If you have end-point treatment and the system is not validated, there is a risk that unsafe water may be produced when water is turbid and has low UVT.  

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