TDS and EC

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This page is all about TDS (dissolved solids) and the EC (conductivity).

TDS

The TDS value is expressed in ppm (Parts Per Million). TDS indicates the amount of dissolved solids in the water. The TDS value also gives an indication of the water hardness. Tap water has a TDS value of 200 - 400 ppm.

The softer the water, without other dissolved substances, the lower the TDS value. The TDS is directly related to the purity of the water and the quality of the filter. This obviously affects the well-being of the shrimp. Pay attention! A low TDS is by definition the same as soft water. It often indicates soft water.

There is a relationship between the TDS, kH and gH. The TDS is in principle the sum of kH, gH and organic substances present in the water.

The TDS is measured with a TDS meter. The EC can also be calculated on the basis of this (see next heading).

Lower TDS

• Using osmosis water (this has a TDS of 0 - 10). This must be supplemented with minerals.

Conductivity (EC)

The EC value is the electrical conductivity of water expressed in MicroSiemens). Technically, the conductivity of water is understood to mean the following: the ability of water to conduct electrical current. In water, it is the dissolved ions that can conduct the current. The higher the conductivity, the lower the resistance. In general it can be stated that the harder the water is, the higher the EC / TDS value.

If you know the TDS value, you can multiply that value by 1.5 and you will know, approximately, what the EC value is.