If you are unsure or questioning your water quality, you should probably invest in a generic TDS meter. Luckily, there are a ton of affordable generic TDS meters to choose from.

What is TDS Meter

A TDS meter measures the amount of total dissolved solids in your water by measuring the electrical conductivity. It then converts this number into parts per million (ppm). TDS meters are primarily used for determining the efficiency and effectiveness of reverse osmosis machines and deion filters. A standard filter usually last between 6 months to a year. The total time really depends on your water quality. In essence, they are essentially the go-to for testing and determining whether or not your reverse osmosis filters require replacement. A standard reverse osmosis filter should remove between 85 and 95 percent of total dissolved solids (TDS) from normal tap water.

Other TDS Uses

TDS meters are also used by many growers looking to test their water quality and nutrient solutions. I’ve used the same generic TDS meter for years. They last a long time and are very affordable. A decent TDS meter will cost around twenty dollars.

Generic TDS Meters For Sale on Amazon

Here is a go-to list of generic TDS meters for sale on Amazon. Luckily, all of the meters listed below are affordable. In fact, they all cost $20 or less unless you buy from a name brand company like BlueLab. I have done the homework for you, so using this list should definitely save you some time.

• Honeforest – professional TDS, EC and Temperature Pen 3 in 1. Upgraded with big backlit LCD for easier reading, and auto-lock function for easier use. This pen costs less than $15. It has over 2,470 reviews and 86 percent of users gave it 4 stars or higher!
• HM Digital TDS-EZ Water Quality TDS Tester – This pen would probably be my go-to for generic TDS meters. Its costs around $18, but the reviews speak for themselves. It currently has 4,082 reviews a 87 percent of users gave it 4 stars or higher!
• Bluelab PENCON Conductivity Pen – A Bluelab pen will cost a considerable amount more. This pen costs $69. This is a name brand pen, definitely not generic. If you are looking for a step up, get a Bluelab. Bluelab is an industry leader and they make high end products. This unit is very accurate and completely water proof.
• VIVOSUN pH and TDS Meter Combo – Vivosun sells a combo pack that includes a pH meter and a TDS meter for about $21. That’s a great price for two meters.

Conclusion

Lastly, if you have any questions please post them in the comment section. If you are interested in learning even more about growing cannabis, please check out my blog. Here are a few of my most recent posts: 

• The Cannabis Growing Season – Southern California
• Is a Grow Tent Necessary
• Trichomes When to Harvest
• Cannabis Water Filter
• Organic Fertilizers for Cannabis
• Cannabis Pot Size Guide