Learn The Truth About An Akaline Water Filter by Gordon Hall
Here's what you should know about an alkaline water filter. Let's start with what the natural pH level of H2O.
Naturally occurring sources, such as springs, have a pH level between 6.5 and 8.5, depending on the alkalinity of dissolved minerals. For example, if a high level of calcium were present, the pH would be closer to 6.5.
The pH of de-ionized or recently distilled waters is neutral or 7. Distilled waters eventually become more acidic (4.5-5.8 on the pH scale) as they absorb carbon dioxide from the air.
When anything is consumed, the body responds by producing bicarbonate or carbon dioxide. If an acidic food or beverage is consumed, the body produces more bicarbonate to help neutralize or balance the pH level.
Certain pH levels are ideal for certain environments. For example, the reef aquarium requires a calcium reactor to balance alkalinity. What is ideal for human consumption?
It would stand to reason that the naturally occurring pH level is what humans are meant to consume. Water filtration experts feel that 6.5 to 7.5 is optimal.
Filtration experts would want more information if you asked for an alkaline water filter. They would want to know more about what you were trying to accomplish.
Did you want to reduce the mineral content? If so, then you would actually be looking for a water softener. When the mineral content is high, it is referred to as "hard" water. An ion exchange step is included in the better filters for drinking or showering to balance the mineral content.
Did you want to increase the alkalinity? That is a relatively new fad.
Companies sell ionizers for that purpose, but there is no scientific evidence backing the company claims. In order for an ionizer to even work, minerals would need to be present.
If you used a reverse osmosis system, the mineral content would be reduced to the point that the ionizer would not work. When ionizers are needed for industrial purposes or scientific experiments, pre-treatment using multi-stage selective filtration is needed. The selective filters remove hazardous chemicals, but not naturally occurring minerals.
If you wanted an alkaline water filter for a reef aquarium, you would actually be looking for a calcium reactor as mentioned above. For drinking or showering, you want selective filtration. There is no need for an ionizer and drinking ionized water could be bad for your health.
Ionizers do not actually purify. They do not remove contaminants. The sales pitches made by companies that sell them are misleading in that respect.
There is actually no such thing as an alkaline water filter.
Hopefully, the information above has helped you understand what you really need.