> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://guidelines.nhmrc.gov.au/australian-drinking-water-guidelines/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://guidelines.nhmrc.gov.au/australian-drinking-water-guidelines/part-2/chapter-8/8.3-overview-of-chemical-treatment-processes/8.3.8-addition-of-buffering-capacity.md).

# 8.3.8 Addition of buffering capacity

Soft waters can be subject to pH change as they travel through the distribution system. The rate of change depends on a number of factors including the water hardness, the pipe materials and internal coating used (e.g. cement lined pipe), the contact time, and temperature. Increasing the buffering capacity of the water can help control the rate of change of pH through the distribution system.