One very common and simple test for water quality is Turbidity. Turbidity is the level of “cloudiness” in a water column as a result of large numbers of particles that individually would be invisible to the naked eye. These particles could be organic or inorganic in nature.

High turbidity can increase water temperature, as the particles absorb more heat. This increase in heat can effect water pH which in turn effects how well any chlorine in the water will kill pathogenic organisms. Turbidity particles will also attract free chlorine ions, thus reducing the concentration of free chlorine.

The World Health Organisation suggests a turbidity level of less than 5NTU for drinking water safety, when used in conjunction with a free chlorine reading of 0.2mg/l.

Turbidity can be simply measured using the DelAgua Turbidity Tubes.  To take a reading  fill the tube and look down to view the black circle at the bottom of  the water column. If the circle is visible then take the reading from the calibrated graduations on the side of the tube. If the circle is not visible, tip a small amount out of the tube and repeat the process. Continue this process until the circle is visible. Visibility of the circle in a full tube indicates a turbidity of less than 5 NTU. Our training video shows how to use the DelAgua Turbidity Tubes. 

We also supply a wide range of turbidimeters for more accurate turbidity measurements such as the Hach 2100Q or the Eutech TN100.  Please contact us for more information.