Water is essential for our lives and health, but not all water is created equal. When it comes to quality hydration, alkaline water has gained prominence for its potential benefits. An alkaline water purifier transforms ordinary tap water into water with a higher pH, offering different characteristics than conventional water.
But how can you know if the water you're drinking is truly alkaline? This article will help you understand what alkaline water is, how to identify it, and what methods you can use to measure the pH of your water at home.
What is pH and how does it affect water quality?
pH, or potential of hydrogen, is the measure that determines whether a substance is acidic, neutral, or alkaline (basic). This scale ranges from 0 to 14, where:
- Values below 7 indicate acidity
- A value of 7 represents neutrality
- Values above 7 indicate alkalinity
Tap water generally has a pH close to neutral, between 6.5 and 7.5, depending on the region and treatment. However, to be considered alkaline, water must have a pH above 7.5, ideally between 8 and 9.5.
The pH balance of the water we consume is essential. Water that is too acidic (with a pH below 6.5) can contain toxic metals such as lead, resulting in a more bitter and metallic taste. On the other hand, water with a neutral or slightly alkaline pH can help maintain our body's balance.
The Importance of a Balanced pH for the Human Body
Our bodies constantly work to maintain a blood pH balance of around 7.4. Drinking water with a proper pH can help support this natural balance without overloading our systems.
Water with a higher pH can:
- Help with cellular hydration
- Contribute to the neutralization of acidity
- Support the function of various body systems
How to Tell if Water Is Alkaline: Measurement Methods
There are several ways to measure the pH of your water, from electronic devices to simpler homemade methods. Let's explore the main options:
Using an Electronic Meter (pH Meter)
An electronic meter, also known as a pH meter, is the most accurate method for checking the pH of your water. This device has an electrode that acts as a sensor, converting the reading into numerical pH values.
To use a pH meter:
- Calibrate the instrument according to the manufacturer's instructions
- Wash the probe and dry it gently with soft tissue
- Check if the device requires information about the sample temperature
- Immerse the probe in the water you want to measure
- Read the value indicated on the display, which will show a pH between 0 and 14
The most modern pH meters are portable and easy to use, such as the HI99192 model, developed specifically for drinking water, which makes measurement convenient.
Using pH Test Strips
pH test strips are a more affordable and simple alternative to checking the alkaline content of your water. To use them:
- Separate a sample of the water you want to test
- Immerse the strip in the sample and wait a few seconds
- Compare the colors that appear on the strip with the standard recommended by the manufacturer
The strips are practical and allow for quick measurements, although they are not as accurate as electronic metes.
Test Kits for Water Analysis
There are specific water analysis kits that measure not only pH but also other important parameters. The Chlorine and pH Water Analysis Kit, for example, consists of reagents and a comparator cell that allows for reliable and quick analyses.
These kits are ideal for those who want more comprehensive water quality monitoring and are used in swimming pools, water treatment systems, aquariums, and domestic reservoirs.
The Health Benefits of Alkaline Water
Alkaline water has been associated with several potential health benefits. It's important to emphasize that, although there are many positive reports, each body reacts differently.
See some of the possible benefits:
- More efficient hydration: During the ionization process, an alkaline water filter transforms water into microclusters, smaller structures that can be more easily absorbed at the cellular level, which can contribute to deeper hydration. This superior hydration can help maintain healthier skin and provide more energy for the body.
- Support for the digestive system: Alkaline water can help support the functioning of the digestive system. It can aid digestion and potentially contribute to the reduction of problems such as heartburn and heartburn. Furthermore, it can help regulate bowel function.
- Acid neutralization: The modern diet, rich in processed foods, meats, and sugars, tends to form acidic residues in the body. Alkaline water can help neutralize this acidity, supporting the body's natural balance.
- Antioxidant Properties: Alkaline water ionizers reduce the charge of electrons and create an oxidation/reduction potential (ORP), resulting in water with antioxidant properties. These properties can help fight free radicals, contributing to overall well-being.
How an Alkaline Water Purifier Works
Alkaline water purifiers are sophisticated devices that transform ordinary water into alkaline water through two main processes: filtration and electrolysis.
Filtration Process
Initially, the water passes through a filtration system that removes impurities, suspended particles, chlorine, and other contaminants. Water Shape purifiers, for example, use exclusive TriWay technology, developed over 26 years, which guarantees the elimination of harmful substances.
Electrolysis Process
After filtration, the water passes through an electrolysis chamber containing titanium and platinum electrodes or plates. In this process:
- The water is ionized, separating it into two parts: alkaline and acidic.
- Hydrogen ions gain a negative charge, making them more easily absorbed by the body.
- The water becomes alkaline, with a pH generally between 8.5 and 9.5.
This ionization process not only increases the water's pH but also alters its molecular structure, potentially improving its hydration properties.
Differences Between Conventional Filters and Alkaline Water Filters
Conventional filters and alkaline water filters have significant differences in terms of functionality and benefits:
Conventional Filters
Conventional water filters generally:
- Remove chlorine, particles, and some impurities
- Keep the water's pH virtually unchanged
- Focus primarily on basic purification
- Does not alter the water's molecular structure
Alkaline Water Filters
On the other hand, an alkaline water filter offers additional benefits:
- In addition to purifying, it alters the water's pH to more alkaline levels
- Transforms the water's molecular structure, creating microclusters
- Adds beneficial minerals to the water
- Provides antioxidant properties to the water
One example is the three-stage filtration system, where the first removes suspended particles, the second eliminates chlorine and odors, and the third raises the water's pH, adding minerals important to the body.
How to choose the best alkaline water purifier for your home
Selecting the ideal alkaline water purifier for your home requires considering several factors:
- Capacity and size: Assess the volume of water your family consumes daily. Water Shape purifiers, for example, offer options like the V Self 6L and the V Self 10L Premium, suitable for different needs.
- Installation and maintenance: Check whether the equipment requires plumbing or electrical installation. Some Acqualive models don't require specific installation and can be filled manually, while others can be connected directly to the water supply.
- Technology and efficiency: Consider the technology used by the purifier. Acqualive's TriWay technology, for example, is designed to transform water and help fight disease and strengthen the body.
- Alkalinity level: Check the final pH of the water. Top Life's alkaline purifiers, for example, are capable of maintaining a water pH above 8.5, as are Acqualive models.
- Additional functions: Some purifiers offer additional functions, such as the ozonated water option (Top Life) or the possibility of installing an automatic refill kit (Acqualive).
Care and maintenance of your alkaline water purifier
To ensure your alkaline water filter functions properly and has a long lifespan, some precautions are essential:
- Regular filter replacement: Filter elements have a limited lifespan and need to be replaced periodically to ensure the system's efficiency. Consult the manufacturer's recommendations for the ideal replacement interval.
- Proper cleaning: Keep your purifier clean, following the instructions in the manual. Regular cleaning prevents the buildup of impurities and ensures water quality.
- Proper storage of alkaline water: Alkaline water has properties that can be lost over time. Ideally, it should be consumed immediately after filtering or stored in suitable containers that do not interfere with its properties.
- pH monitoring: Perform periodic tests to ensure the water's pH is at the desired levels. This helps identify when maintenance is needed.
Knowing the pH of the water we consume is essential to ensuring quality hydration. As we've seen, there are different methods for checking whether water is alkaline, from the most accurate, such as pH meters, to homemade options, such as the red cabbage test. An alkaline water purifier can be a great ally for those seeking better-quality water, with a balanced pH and potential health benefits.
The technology of modern purifiers goes beyond simple filtration, offering ionization processes that transform the water's structure, potentially improving its hydration properties and adding antioxidant properties. When choosing the ideal equipment for your home, consider your water consumption habits, available space, and the features that best suit your needs.
Above all, remember that the quality of the water we consume daily directly impacts our health and well-being. Investing in a good alkaline water purifier can make a big difference in your hydration and, consequently, your quality of life.
Discover Water Shape alkaline water purifier and discover how to transform your water into a source of well-being for your entire family. Visit our website now!