What is the hold time for a TDS sample?

The hold time for a Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) sample is indeed 7 days. This duration is crucial to ensure that the sample remains representative of its original state when analyzed. Over time, chemical and physical changes can occur in a water sample due to interactions with the environment, including temperature fluctuations and microbial activities that may alter the levels of dissolved solids. Adhering to the 7-day hold time ensures that the integrity of the sample is maintained, allowing for an accurate assessment of the TDS levels present in the water source.

Other hold times, such as 3, 5, or 10 days, do not align with standard laboratory practices for TDS. A shorter hold time might not capture the accurate levels of dissolved solids due to potential changes, while an excessively long sample hold may not adhere to regulatory requirements, leading to compromised results. Therefore, following the 7-day protocol is essential for reliable analytical outcomes.