Most natural waters range from pH4 to pH9, but commonly are above pH7 because of carbonates and bicarbonates (alkalinity).
The pH of water used in industry, boiler feed water and swimming pools usually is kept within a narrow range.
| Method | Range | Steps (ppm) | Approx Number of Tests |
| Test strips | pH 4-9 | 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9 pH units | 50 |
