Buying guide for best water ionizer machines
We all know how important it is to drink enough water, but your tap water isn’t always the healthiest option. In addition to possibly harboring contaminants like lead and mercury, tap water doesn’t always have the most beneficial pH, which is why you may want to invest in a water ionizer machine.
A water ionizer machine is an appliance that raises the pH of tap water to make it more alkaline. It uses the process of electrolysis, passing an electric current that contains ions through the water to separate it into acidic and alkaline components. The alkaline water that water ionizer machines produce allegedly has a range of health benefits, including improving bone health and boosting your overall energy. Some water ionizers are large machines that can take up quite a bit of space, while others are simple pitchers.
Key considerations
Types of water ionizer machines
Water ionizer machines are available as pitcher, countertop, and under-the-sink models. Each type works differently and varies in terms of how difficult it is to install.
Water ionizer pitchers are the easiest water ionizer machine to set up because there’s no installation required. A pitcher is an ideal option if you live in an apartment or other rental property because you can easily take the pitcher with you when you move. But because the pitcher is not connected to your plumbing, it can only ionize a limited amount of water at a time and must be manually refilled when you want more alkaline water. Keep in mind that a water ionizer pitcher usually only filters to a single pH level, unlike more advanced machines with a range of options.
Countertop water ionizer machines are appliances that sit on the countertop beside the kitchen sink, so you’ll need to have counter space for one. They connect to the sink’s faucet via a diverter. Installation usually isn’t that difficult. A countertop machine typically offers a range of pH levels, allowing you to customize the alkalinity of the water.
Under-the-sink water ionizer machines are installed beneath the sink, so they don’t require any space on your countertop. They are more difficult to install, however, and you may need a plumber to handle the job. Like a countertop model, an under-the-sink water ionizer typically offers multiple pH levels, so you can get the alkalinity of your water just right.
Some water ionizer machines can be installed as either a countertop or under-the-sink model, so you’re able to choose the best option for your home.
Size
A water ionizer pitcher offers the most compact size among ionizer machines. If you’re opting for a countertop or under-the-sink model, size can be an important factor. Check the dimensions of any water ionizer machine that you’re considering, and make sure that you have the necessary space on your counter or beneath your sink before you commit to buying.
Required water pressure
Some water ionizer machines have minimum water pressure requirements to ensure that the machine works properly. Check the manufacturer’s product specifications to see what the minimum psi is for water pressure to make sure that your home is compatible.
Plates
A water ionizer machine uses metal plates for the ionization process. Most use titanium plates coated with a layer of platinum. Some experts believe that plates dipped in platinum allow for the best conductivity, making them more effective than those just sprayed with a platinum coating. Water ionizer machines that feature titanium plates with a thicker platinum coating usually perform better than those with thinner coatings.
The number of plates is another essential factor to consider. Some models have as few as five plates, while others have more than 10. In general, the more plates that a machine has, the more effective the ionization process will be. For most homeowners, a machine with at least seven plates provides excellent results.
Filters
Along with raising the pH level, a water ionizer machine should also remove any contaminants or toxins from the water. That’s why all machines have some type of filter. Some models have a single filter, though, while others have two or more filters for more effective filtration. Machines that use ceramic filters are usually able to remove more contaminants than those with other types of filters.
You’ll want to find a model that offers filters with a longer lifespan. Some filters can last through thousands of gallons of water, so you won’t have to replace the filters too often and can keep maintenance costs down.
Did you know?
While a pH of 8 or 9 is typically ideal for drinking water, you may want to use more alkaline water for cooking.
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Features
Control panel
Countertop and under-the-sink water ionizer machines usually have a control panel for operating the appliance. Some controls are easier to use than others, though. That’s because they feature bright, clear LCD displays that are easy to read and push-button controls that let you fully customize the alkalinity of your water. Others may have knobs that control the machine’s operation, which are slightly more difficult to use. Some high-end water ionizer machines can even be turned on and off just by waving your hand in front of a sensor for the most user-friendly operation around.
Range of pH levels
Many water ionizer machines allow you to choose from a range of pH levels to control the water’s alkalinity. Pitchers typically offer just a single pH level of 8 to 9, which is generally considered the ideal alkalinity for drinking water. However, countertop and under-the-sink models usually provide more pH options, so you’re able to select a pH from a range of 2 to 12.
More acidic water with a lower pH works well for skin issues like acne or eczema and is often helpful for cleaning and gardening. More alkaline water with a pH of 10.5 or higher is ideal for brewing tea and coffee or cleaning produce of any pesticide residue.
Ease of cleaning
You want to be able to clean your water ionizer machine without too much hassle to keep it working properly and free of contaminants. Countertop and under-the-sink models often have an auto-cleaning function, so you simply have to press a button to start the cycle. When it comes to water ionizer pitchers, choose an option that comes apart easily to make it easier to clean when necessary.
Did you know?
Alkaline water may be able to help restore electrolytes to the body, so it’s an ideal post-workout thirst quencher.
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Water ionizer machine prices
Water ionizer machines vary in price based on their type and features. Most models cost between $30 and $2,000.
Inexpensive: The most affordable water ionizer machines are water ionizer pitchers. They don’t allow you to choose a pH level and typically feature lower-quality components. Water ionizer pitchers generally range from $30 to $189.
Mid-range: Mid-range water ionizer machines are usually countertop models. They allow you to choose a pH level and typically have five plates for the ionization process. You’ll pay between $289 and $995 for these models.
Expensive: The most expensive water ionizer machines are high-end countertop models or under-the-sink machines. They provide a range of pH options and feature at least five plates for the ionization process. They typically cost between $995 and $2,000.
Did you know?
The pH scale ranges from 1 to 14. A pH of 7 is neutral, while anything below is acidic and anything above is alkaline.
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Tips
- Clean the exterior of your water ionizer machine weekly with a damp cloth. Do a deep-cleaning cycle of the inside of the machine every few months – or whenever you notice that the water tastes off.
- If you live in an area with hard water, you may need to clean your water ionizer machine more frequently to remove calcium and lime deposits.
- When you’re new to drinking ionized water, it’s common to get a little nauseous. Try to reduce the pH level of the water you’re drinking until you start to feel better. You can then gradually increase the pH to minimize any sick feeling.
- Use your water ionizer to generate water with a pH of 5 to 7 to use for watering your plants.
Other products we considered
With so many high-quality water ionizer machines on the market, we couldn’t feature all of the models worth checking out on our shortlist. The AquaGreen Alkaline Water Ionizer Machine is an excellent option for anyone looking for an entry-level countertop model. It features five titanium plates for the ionization process and offers seven water settings for the pH level.
The Cosan Pure Hydration Next Generation Water Ionizer is another convenient countertop ionizer that features an easy-to-use dispenser that can accommodate most glasses. It has an alert light for changing the filter, so you always know when it’s time for a new one.
FAQ
Q. What are the health benefits of alkaline water?
A. Alkaline water reportedly helps neutralize acids in the body, which can provide some health benefits. There aren’t many studies that address the effects of alkaline water on the body, but some do show that it can help treat acid reflux and may help people with diabetes, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol.
Q. Can a water ionizer machine work with well water?
A. It depends on the type and model that you have. Check the product specifications for any water ionizer machine that you’re considering to be sure that it’s compatible with your water supply.
Q. What type of warranty coverage do water ionizer machines offer?
A. Water ionizer machines can be pretty pricey, so you’ll want to be sure that your investment is protected. Many countertop and under-the-sink models include warranty protection, but it varies from machine to machine. Most offer at least a year of warranty coverage, but some offer as many as five years.
