How to Test Tap Water pH

A water supply's pH level indicates the water's acidity or basicity. PH is measured on a standard 1 through 14 scale, with ideal, purely neutral water falling at 7. Values above 7 are considered alkaline or basic, and values below 7 are acidic. Testing your tap water is important to ensure it is safe for consumption. According to Aqua MD, tap water pH levels should be between 6.5 and 8.5. If you're using your tap to fill a fish tank, it's also important to research the proper pH level for your aquatic companions.

Things You'll Need

• Clean glass
• PH test strips

Show More

Instructions

• 1

  Pour a glass of water. Let the water sit for about a minute to ensure there is no underlying current or associated ripples from filling the glass.

• 2

  Open up your container of pH testing strips with dry hands in a relatively dry environment; make sure you never expose unused pH testing strips to water, otherwise the color-coding on these strips will activate, and the strips will be useless for future testing.

• 3

  Dip the pH test strip into the water; avoid stirring or splashing the water if at all possible.

• 4

  Hold the pH test strip under the water for several seconds. Depending on the brand of test strip you are using, submersion times will vary; consult the packaging for exact guidelines.

• 5

  Remove the pH strip after submersing for the recommended duration. Hold the test strip level and wait a 5 to 10 seconds for the strip's color swatches to brighten.

• 6

  Compare the colors on the strip to the guide printed on the pH testing strip container. Different color shades indicate different acidity or basicity levels.

• 7

  Throw away the used pH test strip once you are finished. Testing strips are designed for single-use only.