What is the typical pH range for drinking water?

The typical pH range for drinking water is between 6.5 and 8.5. This range is preferred because it indicates water that is neither too acidic nor too alkaline, promoting optimal taste and safety for human consumption. Water that falls below a pH of 6.5 can taste sour and may lead to corrosion of plumbing and fixtures, releasing metals like lead and copper into the water supply. Conversely, water with a pH above 8.5 can have a slippery feel and may also lead to the formation of scale, which can impair plumbing.

Consequently, maintaining a pH within the 6.5 to 8.5 range helps ensure the water is palatable and safe, while also protecting water supply infrastructure. This is why regulatory agencies, like the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), set guidelines that emphasize this pH range for drinking water quality.