Water pH measures the concentration of hydrogen ions, indicating how acidic or alkaline water is on a scale from 0 to 14. A pH of 7 is neutral, values below 7 are acidic, and values above 7 are alkaline. This article explores methods for increasing drinking water’s pH.
Understanding Water pH and Its Significance
Each unit on this scale represents a tenfold difference in hydrogen ion concentration. For instance, water with a pH of 6 is ten times more acidic than water with a pH of 7. Individuals often seek to increase their drinking water’s pH due to health benefits associated with alkaline water, such as improved hydration, detoxification, or balancing the body’s pH. Some research suggests benefits for conditions like acid reflux or bone density. Beyond health, adjusting pH can improve taste, as acidic water may have a metallic flavor. Low pH water can also corrode pipes, introducing metals into the water supply.
Simple Methods to Raise Water pH
One accessible method for increasing water pH involves using baking soda, also known as sodium bicarbonate. This common household item is naturally alkaline, with a pH of around 8. Adding a small amount, such as ⅛ tablespoon or about ⅓ teaspoon, to a glass of water can effectively raise its pH level. While baking soda can increase pH to approximately 8.3-8.4, it cannot raise it above 8.4. However, those monitoring sodium intake should consider that baking soda is high in sodium.
Another convenient option is using pH drops, also known as alkaline water drops. These are concentrated mineral solutions, often containing potassium hydroxide and sodium hydroxide, designed to boost alkalinity. Only a few drops are needed to significantly increase the pH of a glass of water, making them suitable for on-the-go use. These drops provide a simple way to achieve a desired pH without altering taste or adding significant volume.
Food-grade mineral drops, trace mineral drops, can also contribute to water alkalinity. These products are specifically formulated for drinking water and introduce beneficial minerals like calcium, magnesium, and potassium. Adding these minerals not only helps raise the pH but can also enhance the water’s taste. It is important to select products designed for human consumption to ensure safety and effectiveness.
Advanced Options for pH Adjustment
For more consistent or long-term pH adjustment, specialized equipment offers advanced solutions. Alkaline water filters and ionizers work by either passing water through mineral media or using electrolysis to separate water into alkaline and acidic streams. Many of these systems add beneficial minerals, such as calcium, magnesium, and potassium, which naturally increase pH. These devices range from pitcher filters and faucet attachments to whole-house systems, providing continuous alkalinity and also filtering contaminants.
Reverse osmosis (RO) systems, while effective at purifying water, can remove essential minerals, sometimes resulting in water with a slightly acidic pH and a flat taste. Remineralization filters are specifically designed to address this by reintroducing beneficial minerals like calcium and magnesium back into the purified RO water. This process not only raises the pH to a more alkaline state but also improves the water’s taste. These filters are typically installed post-RO system to ensure the water is both clean and mineral-rich.
Monitoring and Ensuring Safe pH Levels
Regularly testing your water’s pH is important to ensure effective adjustment and maintain safe levels. Simple methods for home testing include pH test strips, which change color when dipped in water, indicating the pH level. Liquid test kits involve adding drops to a water sample and comparing the resulting color to a chart. For greater precision, digital pH meters provide a numerical reading of the water’s pH.
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommends that drinking water maintain a pH between 6.5 and 8.5. When intentionally increasing pH, aiming for a range of 8.0 to 9.0 is common. It is important to avoid making water excessively alkaline, generally above pH 9.5. Consuming water with an extremely high pH can lead to issues such as a soapy taste, mineral imbalances, or metabolic alkalosis. Proper monitoring ensures the water remains safe and palatable for consumption.