How to Raise pH Level in Well Water

Well water is a reliable source of water for domestic usage. However, it is crucial to regularly maintain its pH levels to ensure safety. 

According to the U.S Environmental Protection Agency, acceptable levels of safe drinking water range from a pH of 6.5 to 8.5. 

Here’s how you can raise pH level in well water. If you’re looking for the same information about your swimming pool, head over to our post on how to raise the pH level of your pool!

Neutralizing Filters

A neutralizing filter contains limestone or calcium carbonate, which is a base. This means it will raise the pH level of well water. Because neutralizing filters function as mechanical filters to remove solid particles from water, they must be backwashed periodically. 

There are endless options of neutralizing filters available in the market. The Springwell Calcite pH Neutralizer is a great option, especially if you’re looking for smartphone control. It has a retail price of $1,534.53. 

However, if you are a little tight on budget, the AFWFilters pH10 Digital Water Neutralizer Backwashing System with a price tag of $1,100, is a reasonable option. 

Soda Ash Feeder

Another common method is using neutralizing solutions like soda ash. This can be done via soda ash feeders, which are cheaper than neutralizers. To increase the pH of water, powdered soda ash is combined with water and injected into the water line prior to the pressure tank. 

You can easily purchase a soda ash feeder online for as low as $729. The Soda Ash Well Water Package J-Pro-22 is a versatile option that is compatible with different water conditions and types of wells. 

Natural Substances

If you don’t want to invest in a neutralizing filter or soda ash feeder, here are some great natural substances that can provide a quick and easy fix:

Baking Soda

Found in every kitchen, baking soda works like magic to raise the pH level of water. It must be noted that the effect of baking soda on the pH level depends on the current pH of your well water. Experts recommend using a ratio of one tablespoon per 250 milliliters. 

Milk of Magnesia

Because milk of magnesia is an alkaline suspension, anything acidic it comes into contact with gets neutralized. 

Limestone

Limestone is a natural mineral that neutralizes water acidity. However, too much can have a negative impact on water quality, so it’s important to be careful.

Causes of Low pH in Well Water 

Now that you are aware of a few solutions, here’s what causes low well water pH in the first place:

Aging Plumbing

If your plumbing system is old, it can release acidic substances into the well water, causing the pH level to drop. 

Rainwater

Rainwater contains carbon dioxide and other acidic gasses. When mixed with well water, it leads to a low pH level. 

Agricultural and Industrial Runoff

If the location of your well is near an agricultural or industrial zone, runoff from substances such as fertilizers and other chemicals can lead to acidic contamination of well water.

Consequences of a Low Water Well PH Level

Why is it so important to maintain a neutral pH level of your well water? Having an acidic pH poses multiple problems–here are three common ones:

Health Hazards

Acidic water comes along with dissolved metals such as zinc, lead, and copper. When ingested, these lead to health issues such as dental erosion and gastroenteritis. 

Damage to Plumbing

Because acidic well water is corrosive in nature, it can cause damage to household appliances and plumbing. 

Environmental Concerns

If used for irrigation purposes, water with an acidic pH causes damage to soil and plants, leading to decreased, low-quality crop yields. 

Indications of a Low Water PH Level

So, because water with low pH is so dangerous, how do you know when your well water has turned acidic and needs treatment? Here are three indications of low water pH level:

• Green or blue stains on showers, sinks, and toilets
• Pipe leaks due to holes 
• Metallic and unpleasant tasting water 

The Takeaway

Well water is a convenient and reliable source of fresh water for everyday use. As long as you keep a regular check on the pH level and quality of your well water, you can utilize it for numerous domestic purposes. If the pH falls below 6.5, consider using a neutralizing filter, soda ash feeder, or one of the quick fixes described above.

For more helpful pool care information, be sure to check out our posts on what pH a pool should be and how to add ‘pH Up’ to a pool!