Total dissolved solids, usually shortened to TDS, is an estimate of dissolved ions in water. A handheld TDS meter measures electrical conductivity and converts it into an approximate parts-per-million reading.
What the number can tell you
A reading is useful for comparing source water and treated water, watching changes over time and helping a technician assess membrane performance. It does not identify every substance individually and it cannot prove that water is microbiologically safe.
Why readings differ
Mineral content, salts, temperature, meter calibration, source-water changes and treatment condition can affect the result. One universal target should not be promised for every household.
Use TDS together with other information
Consider the water source, taste, odour, visible sediment, pH, installation conditions and appropriate laboratory tests when necessary. A TDS reading is one useful measurement, not a complete water-quality certificate.
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