Water Ionizers : The Pros and Cons of Alkaline Water Purifiers

What are the Various Methods of Water Purification?

There are various methods of water filtration and purification. Some devices are more effective at removing particular types of impurities, particles, colors and contaminants than others. If you have poor quality water, or are concerned about the treatment it receives through chlorination and chemical treatment you will want to consider improving its quality. The methods of water filtration and purification you choose will depend on four things:

(1) the water quality in your local water supply;

(2) what impurities you need to improve;

(3) the cost, reliability and effectiveness of the filtration unit or purification unit and

(4) the expected health-benefits to you and your family.

It is important to note that there is a difference between water filtration and purification.

• Water purification describes the elimination of chemical contaminants and microbes from your water supply. This can done by irradiating the water with UV light, adding a disinfectant such as chlorine or changing the chemical composition of the water using a water ionizer.
• Water filtration systems can remove particles and some chemical contaminants by binding them in ion exchange systems or using activate charcoal.  However filtration units are not designed to remove microbes such as bacteria from the water. These units are not "purifiers" in the strict meaning of the word.

Alkaline Water Ionizers

Understanding how water ionizer work will help you decide whether you should buy one and whether it will solve your particular water problem or health issue.

An ionizer has an electrolysis unit inside, that uses electricity to separates the ions in the water. The processed water is divided into two chambers - one containing the acidic water and ions, and the other the alkaline water.

Alkaline water contains a variety of positively charged ions such as magnesium, calcium, sodium and potassium which buffer the water and keep it alkaline. This fraction is ideal for drinking and cooking. The acidic water, which contains ions such as fluorides, chlorides and nitrates, is excellent for washing fruits and vegetables, but not for drinking.

An electric ionizer can be connected very easily to your cold water tap and placed either under the sink or on your bench top.

It is claimed by many, without scientific proof, that ionized and alkaline water is an antioxidant that reverses the process of oxidation within your body.

Can Alkaline Water Ionizers Electrolyze Distilled Water or Tank Water?

Pure water, such as tank water or rain water, is a poor conductor of electricity and so it cannot be electrolyzed to any degree. The best source water is relatively hard water (meaning, it contains minerals like calcium or magnesium).

Is the pH of the Water Important?

Ionized water doesn't change the acidic levels of your body, as the stomach is very acid. It is not the pH that is important it is the alkalinity - that is the ions in the water that are important.

Do Alkaline Water Ionizers Filter the Water?

Ionizers are only basic water filters and therefore not as effective as a purpose-designed drinking water filters. If you're concerned about the general quality of your water supply (and you should be), you'll need a home water filtration system, not an alkaline water ionizer.

Conclusion

Pros: These units include both filters and ionizing processes using electrolysis. The higher pH of the water and the alkalinity have been claimed to neutralize toxins in the body, helps to strengthen the bones and to boost the immune system. Many people who drink alkaline water report almost immediate boosts in energy and increased vitality, but there is no scientific proof to these claims.

Cons :The units are expensive and the health benefit claims are not verified. Speak to some one who has a unit or study the reviews.