The A — Z of Water: Let’s Clear Up Those Confusing Terms

When you're looking to learn more about what's really in your drinking water and how a filtration system could improve your supply, you've probably found yourself stumbling across some words and terms you may not be familiar with. That's okay – we've got you covered. Read on to discover the glossary of water terms and the meanings behind each one!
 
Alkaline
Alkaline water is water that has a higher (less acidic) pH than regular tap water. To be considered alkaline, the water's pH must be above 7.0.
 
Base Flow
The water that flows from groundwater to a stream.
 
Chlorine
A halogen often associated with pool water – often used for keeping clean. It's not for drinking and can be taken care of using a good filter.
 
Domestic Water Use
The use of water in homes or commercial properties for drinking, showering and other household use.
 
Effluent
A water flow that has been treated at a sewage treatment plant.
 
Freshwater
Water with a content of less than 1000mg/L dissolved solids.
 
Giardiasis
A common disease that can be caused by drinking unfiltered water.
 
Hard Water
Hard water contains more minerals such as calcium, magnesium and chalk. It takes more effort to lather soap in hard water and some may not enjoy the taste.
 
Industrial Water Use
The use of water for industrial purposes – usually from self-supplied sources or the local water department.
 
Kilowatt-hour (KWH)
The measurement most power companies use to calculate your utility bills – including water. A kilowatt-hour is 1000 watts per one hour.
 
Livestock Water Use
Water used in relation to livestock, such as farming, watering and feeding.
 
Magnesium
Magnesium is one of the alkali earth metals that result in water hardness.
 
Nitrates
Part of the nitrogen cycle, nitrates are the salts of nitrous acid. Water with high levels of nitrates is usually considered a health risk.
 
Osmosis
Osmosis is the passing of water molecules and salts through a membrane – often used to desalinate saline water. The osmosis process also happens within the human body.
 
PH
pH is the measure of alkaline or acidity of water, rated on a scale of 0 – 14.
 
Reverse Osmosis
Reverse osmosis is the removal of salts, making them unable to pass through the membrane. This can be seen in our Gold Series G5 Reverse Osmosis Water Purification system!
 
Soft Water
Soft water contains low concentrations of chemicals and nutrients. Many prefer the taste of soft water and choose to purchase a water softener to improve their home supply.
 
Trihalomethanes
Trihalomethanes are chemical compounds that occur when chlorine has been used to disinfect drinking water. They are associated with negative health effects.
 
Water Quality
This term is used to describe the characteristics of your water and its suitability for its intended purpose – for example, drinking!
 
These are just a few of the words you may come across when exploring the ins and outs of water in further depth, but by knowing a few, you'll feel more confident as you read through valuable information.
 
And remember, you can always continue to learn more about water and filtration by taking a look around here at EWT! Our products can help to improve the taste of your water, remove harmful chemicals and even prevent illnesses spread through low-quality water.

If you're ready to give a new filter or softener a try, don't hesitate to get in touch!