Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) is a measure of the total concentration of dissolved substances in drinking water, including inorganic salts and a small amount of organic matter. The TDS level is measured in parts per million (ppm) or milligrams per liter of water (mg/L) . The acceptable range for TDS levels in drinking water varies depending on the source, but generally, the TDS level between 50-150 ppm is considered the most suitable and acceptable for drinking. The World Health Organization (WHO) states that the acceptable range for TDS levels in water should be up to 300 ppm for it to be suitable for human consumption.

It is important to note that a high concentration of TDS is not necessarily a health hazard, but it can affect the taste and odor of water. Moreover, a high concentration of TDS can be an indicator that harmful contaminants, such as lead, nitrate, cadmium, and arsenic, can also be present in the water.

Here is a summary of the TDS level chart for drinking water:

• Less than 50 ppm: Unacceptable as it lacks essential minerals
• 50-150 ppm: Acceptable for drinking. The TDS level is ideal for areas where the water is polluted by sewage or industrial waste
• 150-250 ppm: Good. The water is ideal for people with cardiovascular disease
• 250-350 ppm: Good. The water is ideal for people with cardiovascular disease
• 350-500 ppm: Fairly acceptable
• 500-900 ppm: Less acceptable
• 900-1200 ppm: Least acceptable. Avoid drinking water that has a TDS level of 900
• 1200-2000 ppm: Water is unacceptable for drinking
• Above 2000 ppm: Unsafe and household filters cannot properly filter this level of contamination

It is important to monitor the TDS level and the pH of drinking water to ensure that it is safe for consumption. Water treatment facilities can use reverse osmosis to remove the dissolved solids in the water that are responsible for elevated TDS levels.