pH is a measure of the acidity or alkalinity. Pure water has a Neutral pH of 7. A pH value lower than 7 is acidic, and higher than 7 is alkaline. New Zealand drinking water standards have a guideline from 7.0 to 8.5. Water with low pH can be very acidic and may damage your plumbing system and fittings. This often results in higher levels of metal contaminants such as copper, iron, and zinc. This can cause a bitter metallic taste and may leave green/blue staining on baths and basins. Failure of fittings is also very common because of this corrosion, with copper hot water cylinders being most at risk. On the other hand, water that is too alkaline may have a soapy taste and leave residues. A neutralising system will buffer and correct pH to a neutral state. pH can only be increased by this system.
