Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) Explained
TDS is the one water-chemistry number that can't be corrected with a chemical, which is exactly why it gets ignored until it's a real problem. Riverstone and First Colony both require architectural control committee approval for pool and backyard plans, including review of fencing and setbacks relative to the deed restrictions, which is handled during the design phase.
What's Actually Dissolved in There
Total dissolved solids is a measure of everything dissolved in the water that isn't water: dissolved minerals, salt (if using a salt system), and the residue left behind by every chemical ever added. It climbs steadily over a pool's life simply from normal use and treatment, there's no way to "use up" TDS the way chlorine gets consumed.
Why High TDS Matters
Once TDS gets high enough (often cited around 2,500-3,000 ppm for non-salt pools, higher for salt pools since salt itself counts as TDS), water can start to look dull or cloudy even with correct sanitizer and pH, and chemicals generally become less efficient in saturated water. The only real fix at that point is a partial drain-and-refill to dilute the water back down, there's no additive that lowers TDS.
Where This Fits
See our Pool Repair service page, or Financing if cost is the next question.
Related Reading
pH and Alkalinity Basics for Pool Owners
Why alkalinity is the buffer behind pH, and how to adjust each one without chasing the other in circles.
A Weekly Pool Maintenance Calendar
A realistic week-by-week maintenance rhythm for a Houston-area pool that runs year-round.
Phosphates and Algae Food, Explained
Why phosphate levels matter even when chlorine and pH both test fine.
Get a Free Quote
Tell us about your project and we’ll follow up within one business day.