pH (Acidic Water)

pH in New Hampshire Water

pH is the measure of the acidity of water: Above 7 is alkaline or basic, 7 is neutral and below 7 is acidic.

Problems

pH Acidic water in New Hampshire is very common in private wells and can contribute to the corrosion of copper and other metal pipes in the plumbing systems of your homes. It is “aggressive” in that it wants to be neutral and will draw from anything metallic, degrading pipes and fixtures, contributing to shortened lives of hot water heating and boilers. It is the corrosion of our copper pipes that causes the blue/green staining that is common on our porcelain fixtures, clothes, and our hair. Prolonged exposure can create pinholes and/or brittle pipes. This is also the reason for elevated lead and copper in water tests. Most water purification equipment requires a balanced pH as well.

Health Risks

Acidic water by itself does not create a health concern, but because it is aggressive by nature it leaches copper and lead from our pipes and allows them to enter our water supply. Copper and lead have been associated with a large number of harmful health effects including damage to the brain, red blood cells, and kidneys. The greatest risk is to pregnant women and children in development, and therefore, should not be consumed.

Treatment Options

There are a few acceptable treatment options for acidic water. Soda ash injection is sometimes a viable option but is rarely used today. The other is a Calcite blend filtration system similar looking to a water softener. These neutralizing filters only need to be serviced once a year. This is a sacrificial media that goes away over time and should be refilled on an as-needed basis.

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