The pursuit of a healthier lifestyle has led many people to rethink their hydration habits. In this context, alkaline water filters emerge as a promising alternative for those looking to improve the quality of their daily water consumption. But before making this important investment decision, it's essential to understand the technical and practical aspects that may influence your choice.
Ionized alkaline water has gained prominence for its unique properties, including a high pH and antioxidant properties that can promote overall well-being. However, not all filters available on the market offer the same quality or functionality. Therefore, understanding the essential criteria can make all the difference when purchasing a water filter that truly meets your needs.
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Certification and Quality: The First Step in Choosing
Before any other considerations, verifying that the equipment is certified by Inmetro is absolutely essential. The National Institute of Metrology, Quality, and Technology is the agency responsible for certifying that purifiers meet the safety and efficiency standards established by Brazilian legislation.
An uncertified filter can pose health risks and fail to guarantee the promised water purification effectiveness. Tests conducted by Inmetro evaluate aspects such as particle retention, free chlorine reduction, and bacteriological efficiency – essential characteristics for proper operation.
Certification also guarantees that the product has undergone rigorous quality tests, including verification of its ability to raise water pH and the appropriate addition of beneficial minerals such as calcium and magnesium. Therefore, always look for the official seal before proceeding with your analysis.
Filtration Efficiency: Beyond the Basics
The efficiency of an alkaline filter goes far beyond simply removing visible impurities. It is important to evaluate three fundamental performance categories: particle retention, free chlorine reduction, and bacteriological efficiency.
Particle Retention
The best filters can retain extremely small particles, some filtering elements up to 150 times smaller than a grain of sand. This capacity is measured in microns, and the lower the value, the more efficient the filtration system.
Filters that work with 5 to 15 microns demonstrate good performance in removing sediment, sand, clay, and other solid impurities.
Chlorine Reduction
Chlorine is widely used in municipal water treatment, but prolonged consumption may not be beneficial to health. Quality systems must be able to reduce at least 75% of the chlorine present in the water. Some more advanced equipment can achieve removal rates exceeding 90%.
Bacterial Efficiency
The ability to eliminate bacteria such as Escherichia coli and others in the coliform group is a key differentiator. Many filters use technologies such as colloidal silver to ensure bacteriostatic and bactericidal properties, offering greater safety during consumption.
Filtration Systems: Understanding the Technology
Modern alkaline water filters typically operate through multiple purification stages. A typical system may include three main steps: sediment filtration, chlorine removal, and alkalization.
The first stage uses polypropylene elements to retain suspended particles, followed by an activated carbon filter that eliminates chlorine, odors, and unwanted tastes. The third stage is responsible for alkalization, raising the water's pH to a range between 8.5 and 9.5, in addition to adding important minerals such as magnesium and potassium.
More advanced technologies may include ionization, which imparts antioxidant properties to the water by creating negative ions, resulting in a negative oxidation-reduction potential (ORP). Some systems also incorporate ozone for additional disinfection, offering even greater purification safety.
Ease of Use and Maintenance
Easy-to-Use is a crucial factor that is often overlooked. Choose equipment that is intuitive and doesn't require complex procedures to operate. The entire family should be able to use the filter without difficulty, ensuring everyone can benefit from quality water.
Simplified Cleaning
The equipment cleaning process should be straightforward, allowing you to perform basic maintenance yourself. Well-designed filters facilitate access to the parts that require regular cleaning, preventing biofilm buildup and ensuring proper operation.
Cleaning should be performed every 15 days to maintain water quality. Equipment that hinders this process may end up being neglected, compromising filtration effectiveness and, consequently, the quality of the water consumed.
Replacing Filter Cartridges
Replacing filter elements is an inevitable reality and should be considered in the total cost of ownership. Most alkaline filters require replacement of the cartridges every 6 to 12 months, depending on the volume of water filtered and the quality of the incoming water.
Some systems indicate when replacement is necessary, making it easier to manage maintenance. The cost of refills varies depending on the brand and technology used, and can range from R$350 to more annually.
Important Technical Features
When purchasing a water filter, it's essential to evaluate specifications such as flow rate, operating pressure, and production capacity. Flow rate determines how many liters per hour the system can produce, directly influencing its usability.
The operating pressure must be compatible with your home's plumbing system. Systems operating between 0.5 and 4 kgf/cm² meet most domestic needs. The operating temperature, generally between 4°C and 40°C, rarely poses limitations for residential use.
Available Installation Types
There are different installation modes to meet various needs and initial configurations. Countertop filters offer mobility and ease of installation, making them ideal for those who rent or seek flexibility. Under-the-sink systems are more permanently installed and don't take up counter space.
Gravity filters represent an interesting option for locations without adequate plumbing pressure or where energy independence is desired. These systems operate through natural drip irrigation, similar to the process that occurs in nature.
Expected Benefits of Alkaline Water
Ionized alkaline water can help with several aspects of health and well-being. Reported benefits include improved cellular hydration, thanks to its unique molecular structure that facilitates absorption.
The alkaline pH can help neutralize body acidity, especially beneficial for people with diets rich in acidic foods. Furthermore, the antioxidant properties of ionized water can help fight free radicals, potentially helping to prevent premature aging.
The presence of essential minerals such as calcium, magnesium, and potassium can help meet basic nutritional needs, contributing to bone health and proper cardiovascular function.
Investment and Cost-Benefit
The cost of purchasing an alkaline water filter varies significantly depending on the technology used and the features offered. Basic models can be found starting at a few hundred reais, while more sophisticated systems with ionization and ozone can cost thousands.
It's important to consider not only the initial investment but also the maintenance costs over time. This includes regular replacement of refills, occasional repairs, and energy consumption for electric models. Calculating the cost per liter of water produced can provide a clearer perspective on the total investment.
Choosing a Reliable Company
Check whether the company offers an adequate warranty and advanced technical support. This can make all the difference when technical issues or specialized maintenance are required.
The decision to invest in an alkaline water filter involves multiple factors, ranging from technical aspects to practical everyday considerations. Inmetro certification, filtration efficiency, ease of maintenance, and cost-effectiveness are fundamental elements that should guide your choice.
Remember that the quality of the water you consume daily can significantly influence your overall well-being. Therefore, taking the time to research and compare the available options is an investment in the health of your entire family.
Water Shape is prepared to help you with this important decision, offering advanced technology and specialized support so you have access to the best quality ionized alkaline water. Discover our full line of alkaline water filter products and discover how we can transform the water quality in your home.