Water ionization uses electricity to alter the chemical properties of ordinary tap water through a specialized consumer device. This appliance separates the water into two distinct streams, each possessing a different pH level. By applying a controlled electrical charge, the device rearranges the existing ions and minerals within the water supply. The result is one stream of water that is alkaline and another stream that is acidic, allowing the user to select the appropriate water for various purposes.
The Mechanism of Water Electrolysis
The fundamental science behind a water ionizer is a process known as electrolysis, which occurs within a specialized chamber containing electrodes. Water flows over multiple plates, typically titanium coated with platinum, which act as the positive anode and negative cathode terminals. These plates are separated by a semi-permeable ion-exchange membrane (or diaphragm) that allows ions to pass through while keeping the two resulting water streams separate.
When direct current is applied, dissolved mineral ions are attracted to the oppositely charged plates. Positively charged ions, such as calcium and magnesium, move toward the negative cathode, while negatively charged ions, like chloride, move toward the positive anode. At the cathode, hydrogen ions (H+) are reduced, producing molecular hydrogen gas (H2). This reaction increases the concentration of hydroxide ions (OH-) and raises the water’s pH level, creating the alkaline stream.
Conversely, at the anode, the concentration of hydrogen ions (H+) increases, lowering the pH to create the acidic stream. The ion-exchange membrane prevents the two resultant solutions, known as catholyte (alkaline) and anolyte (acidic), from mixing. The strength of the electrical current and the time the water spends in the chamber directly influence the final pH and the oxidation-reduction potential (ORP), which measures the water’s antioxidant properties.
Installation and Preparation of a Water Ionizer
The water ionizer must be connected to the home’s water supply and power source before use. Countertop models typically use a diverter valve attached to the kitchen faucet, allowing the user to switch the water flow between the sink and the ionizer. Under-sink models require plumbing directly to the cold-water line, often necessitating a separate dedicated faucet on the counter.
A proper connection ensures the incoming water pressure is within the required range for efficient operation. All water entering the electrolysis chamber first passes through an internal filtration system that removes impurities like chlorine and sediment. After installation, a new ionizer requires an initial flushing period to prepare the filters and internal components.
This flushing involves running a steady stream of water through the unit for several minutes to clear residual carbon dust from the new filter cartridges. Some manufacturers also recommend an initial cleaning or conditioning cycle to optimize the performance of the ionization plates. Ensuring all connections are secure and leak-free, followed by this preparatory flush, is the final step before the machine is ready for daily operation.
Operating the Ionizer and Selecting Output Levels
Daily operation centers on selecting the appropriate pH level for the intended use. Most modern units feature a control panel with numbered or color-coded settings to choose the desired level of alkalinity or acidity. Alkaline water levels often range from a mild pH of 8.5 for new users to a strong pH of 10.5 or higher for cooking or cleaning produce.
The flow rate of the incoming water determines the resulting pH and ORP of the ionized water. A slower flow rate increases the contact time between the water and the charged plates, resulting in a higher pH and a stronger ionization effect. For optimal performance, manufacturers suggest maintaining a consistent flow rate, which can be controlled via the faucet or an external flow valve.
When the machine is actively ionizing, it produces two separate streams. The alkaline water exits through the primary spout for drinking and cooking, while the acidic water is discharged simultaneously through a secondary hose. The mildly acidic water (pH 4.0 to 6.0) is not intended for consumption but is suitable for external uses such as skin toning and cleaning. The ionizer also offers a neutral water option, bypassing the electrolysis chamber entirely to provide filtered water at a pH of 7.0, which is recommended for taking medications.