Re: pH 4.3 Condensate Water

[George Slusarczuk <yurko at warwick_net>]

Hello Michael,

Dehunidifier condensate water will have dust, dissolved vapors, bacteria
and copper in it. Even if the condensing coils look like aluminum, they
are an alloy and contain copper. Some years ago I analyzed such a water
by AA -- it contained 1.2 ppm copper!!!

In a very low conductivity water it is difficult to measure pH, either
by colorimetric or electronic methods. That is a known phenomenon, but
seldom mentioned in the literature. 

One way to circumvent the problem is to add a neutral electrolyte to the
sample. Ideally that would be a few drops of a pure KCl solution. I
imagine, that adding some salt (NaCl, without any additives) would do
the trick also.

Best,

George



Stoecker,Michael,FRANKLIN PARK,NC&C wrote:
> 
> Hi,
> I recently purchased a new dehumidifier for my basement.  The water collects
> in a plastic jug at the bottom of the unit.  About 2 gallons worth in 24
> hrs. when set to 45 % RH.
> I poured a gallon of it into a clean, clear plastic jar and let it sit for
> 24 hrs.  A few bubbles gathered on the sides of the jar and I banged the jar
> to release the bubbles [with my luck it was probably radon].
> I then measured the pH with an new, calibrated Hanna Combo meter.  Anyone
> want to hazard a guess as to why the collected water would have a pH of 4.3?
> Should I recalibrate the meter?
> 
> Being condensate off the cooling coils it is probably close to RO water.  I
> did take a uS and ppm measurement and they came out very low, but don't
> remember right now.
> I plan on experimenting with this water to see if it is safe for the
> killies.
> 
> Thanks for any ideas.
> mike
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