How to Balance the pH Level in Distilled Water

Distilled water is slightly acidic.

Although distillation units aim to produce water with a neutral pH of 7, distilled water is usually slightly acidic. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, or EPA, distilled water usually has a pH of between 5.6 and 7. This is because carbon dioxide in the air dissolves in the water.

Things You'll Need

• pH paper and color chart
• White vinegar
• Baking soda

Instructions

1. Dip a clean strip of pH paper in the distilled water for two seconds, then take it out of the water.

2. Compare the color of the pH paper with the color chart to determine the pH value of the water.

3. Add about 1/4 tsp. baking soda for every cup of distilled water to increase its pH value if the water is acidic.

4. Dip another pH paper strip to check that the pH level has reached 7.

5. Add a drop or two of vinegar if the water becomes too alkaline.

6. Keep testing and adding baking soda or vinegar until you get a pH value of 7.

References

• Environmental Protection Agency: Acid Rain Experiment