What is the typical pH range for drinking water?

The typical pH range for drinking water is considered to be between 6.5 to 8.5. This range is important because it indicates water that is neither too acidic nor too alkaline, which can have implications for both water quality and health. Water with a pH lower than 6.5 may be corrosive and can leach harmful metals from plumbing systems, while water with a pH higher than 8.5 can indicate the presence of alkaline substances that could affect taste and potentially interfere with disinfection processes.

Regulatory agencies, such as the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in the United States, recommend maintaining drinking water pH within this optimal range to ensure safety and palatability. Drinking water falling within this range supports the effectiveness of disinfection methods commonly used in water treatment and helps to protect the integrity of distribution infrastructure.