SCA water quality targets

Key SCA Water Quality Parameters

• Total Dissolved Solids (TDS): 75–250 ppm

• Ensures minerals are sufficient for extraction without overpowering flavor.

• Total Hardness (as CaCO₃): 50–175 ppm

• Balanced hardness supports proper extraction and sweetness.

• Total Alkalinity (as CaCO₃): 40–75 ppm

• Controls buffering capacity, preserving desirable acidity.

• pH: 6.5–7.5

• Neutral to slightly acidic water avoids off-flavors.

• Chlorine & Chloramines: <0.1 ppm

• Prevents undesirable taste and aroma.

• Sodium: <30 ppm

• High sodium can mask coffee flavors.

• Silica: <30 ppm

• Excess can lead to scale buildup in equipment.

• Temperature: Room temperature (for brewing and measuring consistency).

Practical Tip: Using SCA targets as a guideline helps baristas and roasters maintain consistency across brewing methods and ensure flavor clarity.

• Tags:
• Flavor Clarity
• Brewing Methods
• Dissolved Solids
• Water Quality
• Baristas Roasters
• Maintain Consistency
• Total Dissolved
• Practical Tip
• Room Temperature
• Total Hardness
• Helps Baristas
• Buffering Capacity
• Sca Water
• Scale Buildup
• Solids Tds