Author: Julie Woods

How Much Water Evaporates From a Pool?

Julie Woods Leave a comment

swimming pool at sunset

Between 1/4 inch to 1 inch of water evaporates from a pool every day. The amount of water that evaporates is affected by air temperature, exposure to sunlight, wind speed, humidity, and the size of the pool. This article covers everything you need to know about how much water evaporates from a pool.

• Does Pool Water Evaporate?

• How Does It Evaporate?

• Pool Water Evaporation Rate

• How Much Evaporation Is Normal?

• How to Stop Water Evaporating

• Is it Evaporation or a Leak?

DOES POOL WATER EVAPORATE?

people playing in a pool

Yes, pool water evaporates. Pool water evaporates due to its exposure to heat and wind. Water evaporates more quickly from pools in hot and dry weather conditions. Pools located in hot dry climates with plenty of sunshine will experience the most evaporation. However, wind plays a significant role too, see below.

HOW DOES POOL WATER EVAPORATE?

As water molecules in pool water absorb heat from the sun they become energized and begin to vibrate. These energetic water molecules change from liquid form to gas. The gas molecules rise into the air above the pool as water vapor.

lifeguard standing next to a pool

Wind plays an important role in pool water evaporation. Wind increases the speed of evaporation by sweeping away the water vapor as it gathers over the pool.

In the absence of wind, the water vapor will hover above the pool like a blanket and will slow down the evaporation process. Wind removes this water vapor film and allows a new blanket to take its place.

Other factors that play a role in pool water evaporation are humidity, sunlight, and pool size & shape. Let’s take a look at how each of these impact pool water evaporation.

TEMPERATURE

Temperature plays one of the most significant roles in the evaporation of water from a pool. As temperature increases, so too does the rate of evaporation. As water molecules in the pool absorb heat they become excited and begin to escape as water vapor.

Pools in dry hot climates that are exposed to direct sunlight experience the most water evaporation. The higher the temperature, the more heat, and the more water evaporates as water vapor. Note, pool water also evaporates in cooler climates but at a much lower rate.

WIND

Wind has a significant impact on how much water evaporates from a pool. Wind removes the humid air above the pool that contains water vapor and replaces it with dry air. This dry air then absorbs fresh water vapor from the pool surface. And this cycle repeats itself as wind sweeps away this humid air.

Pools situated in areas with little shelter experience the highest levels of wind evaporation. Windbreakers or walled enclosures are great ways of protecting a pool from the evaporative effects of wind.

HUMIDITY

Humidity plays a big role in how much water a pool loses to evaporation. The higher the level of humidity in the air, the lower the amount of evaporation that occurs. This is because humid air already contains a high level of moisture and has a reduced ability to absorb water vapor. On the other hand, dry air with low humidity is very effective at absorbing water vapor.

SUNLIGHT

Exposure to direct sunlight is a contributing factor to pool water evaporation. Pools that are directly exposed to sunlight heat up more quickly than pools situated in shaded areas.

SIZE & SHAPE OF POOL

The size and shape of a pool also play a role in how it loses water to evaporation. Specifically, pools with a larger surface area experience the greatest level of evaporation. Larger surface areas mean more water is exposed to direct sunlight and the movement of dry air. This speeds up the rate of evaporation. On the other hand, deep pools with relatively low surface areas experience less evaporation.

POOL WATER EVAPORATION RATE

What is pool water evaporation rate? Pool water evaporation rate is the rate at which pool water transforms to water vapor and leaves the pool in gaseous form. It results in a loss of water volume and can be noticed as the water level slowly falls. Pool water evaporation rate is calculated by measuring the change in water level over a time period.

still swimming pool behind a house

HOW TO CALCULATE

Calculating pool evaporation rate is easy. All you have to do is measure the drop in water level over 24 hours and calculate the evaporation rate in inches per day. You can do this by marking the top of the water level with a piece of tape. Then, repeat the process 24 hours later.

The difference between the two marks indicates the drop in water level over those 24 hours. Repeat the process over a larger time period and calculate an average for a more accurate value. This gives you a pool evaporation rate average in inches per day.

FORMULA

• (Water Mark Day 1) – (Water Mark Day 2) = Evaporation Rate (inches)

HOW MUCH EVAPORATION IS NORMAL FOR A POOL?

How much water does a pool lose to evaporation? How much water evaporates from a pool each day?  A pool normally loses between 1/4 inch to 1 inch of water to evaporation each day. Pools located in hot, dry climates with a breeze and lots of sunlight will experience more evaporation than pools in cool, humid climates.

a pool of water

An average-sized rectangular pool measuring 16′ x 32′ feet with an average depth of 4 feet will lose 1 inch of water per day in a hot, dry, and sunny climate. A similar pool located in a milder climate with a greater level of humidity can expect to lose 1/4 inch of water per day. This is the normal evaporation for an average-sized pool based on climate conditions.

HOW TO STOP WATER EVAPORATING FROM A POOL

There are several methods you can use to reduce the rate of evaporation from a pool. Although it may not be possible to completely stop the evaporation process there are some simple steps you can take to greatly reduce it. Evaporation is a natural process and your aim should be to minimize it, not completely stop it.

woman sitting at edge of a pool

Use a Pool Cover

A pool cover is the best way to reduce water evaporation from a pool. When not in use, place a cover across the pool. A cover not only reduces evaporation but also keeps debris from falling into the pool. There is a range of cover types on the market. You can choose from solid, mesh, and automatic covers that operate using a timer.

Use a Windbreak

A windbreak is another great device for reducing pool water evaporation. A windbreak can include a row of trees, a hedge, a screen, or a wall. These create a physical barrier to prevailing wind and protect the pool surface from wind evaporation.

Lower Pool Temperature

You can reduce the rate of evaporation by lowering the temperature of the pool. If you have a heated pool, simply reduce the pool temperature by a couple of degrees. The cooler water will be more resistant to evaporation. If you have no temperature control, you can place a shade above the pool for a similar effect.

Reduce Pool Usage

Another effective method of reducing evaporation is to reduce pool usage. The more a pool is used, the greater the level of evaporation. Motion in the water facilitates the evaporation process by encouraging the escape of water vapor from the water’s surface.

Add a Pool Cover Liquid

A pool liquid cover is a chemical you can add to the pool that creates a liquid barrier on the surface of the pool. This cover reduces evaporation and performs in a similar way to a regular physical pool cover. Liquid covers are made from non-toxic substances and are safe to swim in.

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IS YOUR POOL LOSING WATER BY EVAPORATION OR A LEAK?

Have you considered a pool leak? It can be difficult to tell if a pool is losing water due to evaporation or a pool leak. If the pool is losing more than 1” inch per day you should investigate for the presence of a leak.

water droplets on a pool of water

How to Detect a Leak in a Pool

There are several methods you can use to detect a pool leak. The most popular are the dye test and bucket test. Below we cover all the methods available for detecting a pool leak.

Dye Test

This is one of the simplest and most effective methods of detecting a pool leak. Simply, turn off the pool pump and filtration system and add some food coloring to the pool. Then, stand back and observe the movement of the colored water. Is it moving towards a specific point? If it is, this is a clear sign of the presence of a leak.

Bucket Test

Grab a bucket and fill it with water. Place it next to the pool surface and mark the water level on side of the bucket. Also, mark the pool water level by pacing some tape on the side of the pool in line with the top of the watermark. Wait 24 hours. Then measure the drop in water level for the bucket and the pool. If the pool water has dropped more than the bucket level, there may be a leak.

Pool Equipment Inspection

Take a look at all the pool equipment. Inspect the water pump, pool filter, heater, and all pipework for signs of a leak or drip. If you find any, you’ve located the leak.

Listen For Sounds

If you have a big leak you should be able to hear some unusual sounds. Stand on the edge of the pool and listen out for unusual hissing or gurgling noises. These could be the noises of water leaving the pool unexpectedly.

Hire a Professional

If you’ve tried the above steps and cannot locate the source of the pool leak, it’s time to get a professional in. These people use specialized equipment to detect and locate pool leaks, including electronic high-precision listening devices to pinpoint water leaks.

 

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Top Tips for Mastering the Art of Water Cooler Chat

Julie Woods Leave a comment

Looking for expert tips for mastering the art of water cooler chat and how to build relationships in the workplace? Below we cover everything you need to know, from how to break the ice and strike a good first impression, to topics that work well and those that should be avoided.

co workers chatting at water cooler

The water cooler is a common gathering point in the workplace. It’s somewhere we go to take a short break and grab a drink of water. But, it’s also a place you frequently bump into coworkers. And, it’s a place you need to engage and chat with your colleagues.

Chatting with coworkers comes naturally to some. But, for others, it’s a more difficult process. What should you talk about? What topics are appropriate? And, how do you get started? Below we take you through everything you need to know.

Water Cooler Chats – Better Communication in the Workplace

lady smiling and making a hand gesture

Want to get to something quickly?  Use the links below to jump to the content most important to you.

• Expert Tips for Water Cooler Chats
• Best Topics for Chats
• Topics to be Avoided

Expert Tips for Mastering the Art of Water Cooler Chats at Work

1: Breaking the Ice – Smile!

The most important thing is a smile. Make sure you greet your co-worker with a smile and a warm greeting. First impressions are key and this is a great way to start. Nothing beats a smile when you first meet someone. A smile is a universal way of expressing warmth and friendliness.

2: Ask a Question

Ask an open-ended, general interest question that allows your colleague to share their thoughts. Asking a question expresses an interest in the other individual and encourages them to engage in conversation. And, an open-ended question encourages dialogue and discourages a yes-no answer.

3: Listen

workers smiling and chatting at a water cooler

Make a genuine effort to listen and show an interest in what they have to say on the topic. Listening shows you value their opinion and have a genuine interest in what they have to say. It develops a sense of trust and helps you build a connection with your co-worker.

4: Share Your Opinion

Once your coworker has finished making their point, share your opinion on the same topic. This shows you are interested in the subject they are talking about and allows the conversation to develop further. When sharing your opinion, remain respectful, avoid a negative tone, and keep it light.

5: Positivity

Make an effort to keep the nature of the chat light and positive. Steer away from negative issues. Check out our topic guides below for a list of subjects you should aim for – and topics that should be avoided. Keeping the nature of the conversation positive helps develop trust.

6: Time

Time is another key factor when chatting in the workplace. While it is important to build morale and make connections with coworkers, you should also be mindful of the time you spend chatting. Keep it brief. Everyone has work to do and if you stand around chatting too long it will be viewed negatively.

7: Respect

This one is common sense. Always be respectful of the person you are talking with and the topics you are discussing. It’s important you maintain a comfortable, positive, and friendly demeanor throughout the brief conversation.

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Best Topics for Water Cooler Conversations: How to Engage with Colleagues at Work

Weather

weather reporter presenting the weather

The weather is always an easy way to strike up a conversation. It’s an ever-popular topic of chat throughout the world. We’re all exposed to the weather so it has relevance regardless of who you are talking to. It allows us to bond over a shared experience or complain about the intense heat or cold.

Sport

Sport is an excellent topic of conversation for bonding with co-workers. Not everyone shares an interest in sport. But for those that do, you’re on a winner. Sport is one of the easiest and safest topics for discussion. It’s also a great way of developing a shared interest, developing a bond, and rarely causes offense.

Current Affairs and News

News and current affairs are one of the easiest ways to strike up a conversation at the office water cooler. It is the news after all – so most people will have an understanding of the topic. Our advice is to make sure you have a general understanding of world affairs and be able to hold a conversation on the subject. Try and avoid getting into politics or sensitive areas. And, avoid expressing strong or controversial personal views.

General Entertainment

General interest includes topics such as movies, TV series, books, shows, and music. Depending on your audience – general entertainment is one of the best ways of developing a conversation. It’s a broad topic that can be adapted to suit most interests.

Jokes (Clean & Appropriate)

Sharing clean and appropriate jokes and funny stories are a great way to lighten the mood and get people laughing. People love laughing. It releases feel-good chemicals and boosts mood. Just remember, when telling jokes in the workplace, be careful of who you are chatting with and avoid taboo subjects and unsuitable material.

Hobbies and Interests

Discussing your hobbies and interests with coworkers can help develop a connection. Especially if it is a shared interest. Chatting about hobbies is a great way of establishing common ground with other people in your office. It helps you understand what makes others tick and build connections.

Topics to Avoid at the Water Cooler: Keeping it Respectful & Professional

office workers chatting

Workplace Conflicts

It is not a good idea to discuss workplace conflicts at the water cooler. Doing so can cause tension and lead to further conflict. You need to keep things light and positive. And, workplace problems definitely do not fall into this category. Conflict should be discussed in an appropriate and private setting.

Sensitive Workplace Information

Discussing sensitive workplace information at the water cooler is unprofessional and is a breach of trust. It could even lead to a termination of employment. Water cooler conversations should be respectful, and light, and create a positive atmosphere.

Pay & Remuneration

Pay and remuneration are confidential topics and should definitely not be discussed at the water cooler. Chatting about pay and salary can trigger feelings of distrust and resentment. It can also deteriorate trust between co-workers, and between co-workers and management. Pay should only be discussed with your manager.

Religion & Politics

Religion and politics can be divisive topics of conversation. Whether standing at the water cooler or visiting friends for a dinner party – religion and politics are often off the agenda. Many people have sensitive feelings when it comes to both religion and politics. And, discussing them can unintentionally cause insult.

Gossip

Nobody likes an office gossip. If you’ve heard some juicy gossip, it’s best to keep it to yourself. No matter how tempting it feels to share it at the office water cooler – you should resist the temptation. Steer clear of gossip and aim to build relationships and foster trust with your fellow co-workers.

Personal Issues

Avoid discussing personal issues with coworkers. Personal issues are not for general discussion and are not suitable as a light topic for conversation at the water cooler. People openly discussing personal issues with coworkers in the corridors may be seen as unprofessional.

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HOW MANY GALLONS OF WATER DOES A CAMEL DRINK?

Julie Woods 2 Comments

how much water does a camal drink

A camel drinks 30 gallons of water in 15 minutes. The amount of water a camel drinks depends on several factors, including how hot it is, how long its been since it last had a drink, and how hard it is working. But, a camel can drink 30 gallons of water in one go. Let’s take a closer look at how many gallons of water can a camel drink.

HOW MANY GALLONS OF WATER CAN A CAMEL DRINK?

camels walking over a sand dune

A thirsty camel can drink 30 gallons of water in just fifteen minutes. That works out to 113 liters of water for our European friends. The amount of water a camel drinks depends on the individual camel, its environment, and the amount of fat in its hump. More on humps later.

Modern camels were domesticated by humans over 3,000 years ago. They have been used for centuries to help transport goods and people across harsh desert environments. Camels can go long periods without food and water and are known as the ships of the desert.

There are two types of camels – dromedary and Bactrian. Dromedary camels are also known as Arabian camels and make up 90% of all camels in the world today. These camels have been domesticated and are found in the Middle East and northern Africa. They are recognizable by their single large hump on their back.

Bactrian camels are found in Asia and can be easily recognized by the two large humps they have on their back. Below we cover everything you need to know about how many gallons of water does a camel drink.

HOW LONG CAN A CAMEL GO WITHOUT DRINKING WATER?

desert oasis

A camel can go 7-10 days without drinking water. And, they can go months without eating any food. Camels are incredibly robust animals when it comes to surviving in the absence of water. The blood cells of camels are specially adapted to maximize their water consumption efficiency.

Camels have oval-shaped blood cells. This cell shape allows the blood to flow freely even when the body begins to become dehydrated. This special cell structure plays a large part in enabling a camel to go such long periods without food or water. They have even been known to suffer 40% body weight loss and continue to function in harsh conditions.

HOW MUCH WATER CAN A CAMEL DRINK IN 10 MINUTES?

water pouring into a pool of water

A camel can drink 20 gallons of water in 10 minutes. And, it can consume a whopping 30 gallons in just 15 minutes. That works out at an incredible 10 gallons every 5 minutes. Thirsty camels drink very large quantities and retain the fluid in their bodies to enable them to endure long periods without water.

The amount of water a camel will drink in 10 minutes will depend on how thirsty it is. And this is influenced by its current level of hydration, its environment, and how much work it has been doing. But, the thirstiest of camels can drink 20 gallons in just 10 minutes.

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HOW MUCH WATER CAN A CAMEL DRINK AT ONE TIME?

picture of a camels face

A camel can drink 30 gallons of water at one time. If a camel has not had a drink in a long time, up to one week, it can drink a staggering 30 gallons of water in one go. The oval shape of the camel’s blood cells allows them to consume more water than other animals of a similar size. The oval cells have an elastic nature and can change shape to allow them absorb larger volumes of water compared to regular blood cells.

HOW MUCH WATER DOES A CAMEL’S HUMP HOLD?

a drop of water falling into a pool of water

A camel’s hump doesn’t hold any water. It is a common misconception that a camel uses its hump to store water. In fact, there is no water in a camel’s hump – only fat. Camels store water in their bloodstream. Their oval-shaped blood cells expand and change shape to allow for the absorption of large volumes of water, up to 30 gallons at a time.

WHAT IS A CAMEL’S HUMP FOR?

camel in the desert 2

What is a camel’s hump for then? A camel uses its hump to store fat. This is a source of food and nourishment when times get tough and food is scarce. When a camel runs out of food it begins to consume the fat in its hump to keep it going.

When this happens the hump begins to shrink and tip over. When the camel gets a chance to eat again and replenish its fat levels the hump returns. The fat deposits sit on the camel’s back instead of around its belly to help protect it from the heat of the sun.

HOW OFTEN DOES A CAMEL PEE?

camel smiling at camera

This is a question we often get when discussing – How Many Gallons of Water Can a Camel Drink. Camels don’t pee as often as other mammals. But when they do, they pee a yellow-orange colored pee. It’s made up of wastewater and toxins that have been removed from the body by the kidneys. Camel pee is highly concentrated and contains very little water relative to its electrolyte and waste product content.

Camels that have restricted access to water will pee less. These camels pee just 0.2 gallons of pee per day. And, camels that have regular access to water will pee much more frequently – up to 1.3 gallons per day.

So, there’s a big difference in the amount of pee depending on how much water the camel has been drinking. The sex of the camel also plays a part in determining how often the animal pees per day. Male camels pee a little more frequently than female camels – usually 10-12 times per day.

Camels are incredibly efficient at retaining the water they take on board. Their blood cells change shape and expand to allow them to store large volumes of water in their bloodstream. But just like all other mammals, they need to pee at some stage to remove toxins from the body.

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HOW TO USE A PH TEST STRIP AT HOME

Julie Woods 3 Comments

test ph of water color codes

How to use pH test strip – just dip it in your test sample, wait 15 seconds, and allow the indicator to change color. Once the color has changed compare it against your color chart to find the pH value of your test sample. It’s that simple.

CONTENTS

WHAT IS A PH TEST STRIP?

A pH test strip is a cheap and effective tool you can use at home to measure the pH of your water supply. They are small strips of paper that use a color code to indicate the pH of a solution.

lady making a hand gesture and smiling

They are easy to use, cost-effective, and give quick clear results. PH stips are made from a special type of paper – sometimes called litmus paper.

One tip of the paper has color-coded patches that change color when emersed in a solution. The resultant colors can be checked against a color chart to determine the pH of your water supply.

HOW TO USE A PH TEST STRIP

Using a pH test strip is easy. All you need to do is remove a strip from the packet, immerse it in your test solution, and then wait for 15 seconds for the color change to take effect.

ph test kit

It’s a very straightforward process and you will know the pH of your water in seconds. See below for simple step-by-step instructions on how to use a pH test strip.

1: PREPARE WATER SAMPLE

The first step in ‘how to use ph test strip’ is to get your water sample ready. Grab a clean glass and add some of the water you want to test. You don’t need a large volume, just enough to dip the end of the test strip into.

2: GET YOUR PH TEST STRIP

Carefully remove a test strip from the packet. PH test strips usually come in small plastic tubs. There will be quite a few in there. Just be careful to only handle the end of the strip that does not have the color indicator.

3: SUBMERGE THE END OF THE STRIP IN THE WATER

Dip the color-coded tip of the strip into your water sample. Make sure you submerge all the color patches. The number of color patches varies depending on the strips being used but there are usually 2 to 4.

4: REMOVE THE STRIP

Remove the water pH test strip from your sample and lay it down on a flat surface. We like to use a piece of clean dry kitchen paper. This way it will soak up any excess water.

5: WAIT 15 SECONDS

Now you need to wait 15 seconds to allow the reaction to occur. You will see the color indicator changing color. The change can happen very rapidly but you should wait 15 seconds to be sure the indicator has finished adjusting color.

6: READ THE RESULT

The last step involves reading the result. All you have to do is compare the colors on the end of your test strip against the color chart provided. The chart should be on the outside of the packaging or may be included in a pamphlet inside the container.

7: MATCHING THE COLORS

Most pH indicators come with at least two color patches. You will need to find the corresponding result on the color chart that matches your strip. This often involves looking at a two or three color code combination.

8: WHAT DOES THE RESULT MEAN?

Now you have your result, what does it mean? The pH scale runs from 0 to 14. A score of 7 is neutral. If your water scored 7, this means it is neither acidic nor alkaline. It is neutral and sits right in the middle.

Anything below 7 is acidic and anything above 7 means you have alkaline water. You can use these test strips to test your regular water supply or to test water from an alkaline water machine to see if it is working as designed.

HOW TO READ PH TEST STRIPS

How do you read a water pH test strip? A pH test strip uses litmus paper that changes color to tell you if you have acidic or alkaline water. Once you dip the strip in your water sample it will begin to change color.

using ph test strip colors

Just allow 15 seconds for the color change to take effect and then compare it against the color chart provided. All you need to do is hold it against the color chart and match it to the colors that most closely resemble your result.

Most pH test strips have more than one color patch. The majority of strips we use have anything from 2 to 4. But 2 color patches are the most common.

The easiest way to read the pH test strip is to hold it up against the color chart and move it along until the two-color patches match a color combination on the chart. Then read the corresponding pH value from the chart.

HOW TO TEST YOUR DRINKING WATER WITH A PH TEST STRIP

Testing your drinking water with a pH strip involves the same method as testing any other sample of water. Just prepare a clean dry glass and add a sample of your drinking water.

glass of ionized alkaline water

Then follow the steps outlined above to perform the pH test. Dip the litmus test paper in your sample, wait 15 seconds, and then read your result. If you score above 7, then you have alkaline water.

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PH TEST STRIP COLOR CHART

A pH test strip color chart is used to determine the result of your pH test. The color chart is usually printed on the outside of the container. Or, it may be included inside the packet in a small pamphlet.

deionized water

The colors range from yellow and pale orange for acidic results to dark orange, green, and even dark blue for acidic results.

Every pH test strip kit is different so you will need to refer to the color chart for your specific kit. But don’t worry they are easy to read and you will have a clear result in seconds.

HOW DO PH TEST STRIPS WORK?

PH test strips work by changing color. They use a technology called litmus paper. When litmus paper is dipped into a solution it changes color to show how acidic or alkaline the solution is.

They are regularly used in homes to test the acidity/alkalinity of water, urine, and saliva. Litmus paper uses a water-soluble mixture of dyes that change color when exposed to an acid or alkaline substance.

The resultant color can then be read against a chart to determine the pH level of the substance. They are a cheap and relatively accurate way of testing the pH of a solution.

frequently asked questions

WHERE TO BUY PH TEST STRIPS?

You can buy drinking water ph test strips online or in most pharmacies. You can pick up a pack for between $5 to $10. All the big pharmacies carry them, most of the small ones, and you can even find them at your local supermarket.

WHAT COLOR ARE PH TEST STRIPS?

The color of a pH test strip will change once it is dipped in a test solution. The colors you can expect to see are pale yellow, dark yellow, pale orange, dark orange, pale green, dark green, pale blue, and dark blue.

HOW MUCH ARE PH TEST STRIPS?

PH test strips are relatively inexpensive. A pack of 50 strips will set you back between $5 – $10 US dollars.  The best advice is to shop around when using pH test strips at home.

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COFFEE & ALKALINE WATER

Julie Woods 4 Comments

cup of coffee made using alkaline water

Is alkaline water good in coffee? Yes, alkaline water is great for coffee – it makes it taste better! Alkaline water extracts more flavor from coffee beans and makes a much better-tasting cup of coffee. For the best tasting coffee use alkaline water with a pH of up to 8.5. The science is there to prove it.

IS ALKALINE WATER GOOD FOR COFFEE?

Yes, alkaline water is great for making coffee. If you like coffee, you’ll love alkaline water. Like Bonnie and Clyde, when you put the two together they form a potent couple.

water pouring into a pool of water

Alkaline water intensifies the aroma and flavor of coffee. Its alkaline properties perfectly complement the natural acidity of coffee.

Coffee is an acidic compound and the addition of alkaline water balances the acidity to enhance the taste and bring the subtle flavors to the fore.

IMPROVES TASTE

Alkaline water increases the flavor of coffee. Alkaline water extracts more flavor from the coffee beans compared to regular water and creates a more fragrant beverage.

And the science is there to prove it. A study by the University of New South Wales found that using alkaline water improved the flavor extracted from coffee beans.

They concluded that water with a pH of 7.0-8.5 resulted in the most flavor extraction and the best tasting cup of coffee.  You can make alkaline water at home using an alkaline water machine.

HOW DOES ALKALINE WATER AFFECT YOUR COFFEE?

Alkaline water improves the taste, enhances the aroma, and neutralizes the natural acidity of coffee. It is a great choice of water for making coffee – and if you haven’t tried it yet, you should give it a go.

coffee cup on a table

For the best results, choose an alkaline water with a pH of between 7 and 8.5. The pH scale runs from 0 to 14, and anything above 7 is alkaline.

Using alkaline water to brew your coffee takes the edge off its strong acidity levels and allows you better appreciate the complex flavors and aromas of the coffee bean.  Think of it like adding a little water to whiskey.

To truly appreciate the aroma of a high-end aged whiskey you need to add a little water to ‘loosen’ the flavors.  Alkaline water acts as the perfect counterbalance to the sharp acidity of a regular coffee.

It’s a real treat for the taste buds.  Check out our full guide to the Benefits of Alkaline Water – over here.

WHAT ACIDS ARE IN COFFEE?

Coffee is a naturally acidic drink. It has a pH of 4.7-5.0 depending on the beans and brewing technique used. Anything below 7 on the pH scale is an acidic compound.

glass of alkaline water in the forest

Coffee contains a wide range of acids, but the main players are chlorogenic, citric, malic, quinic, phosphoric, linoleic, and acetic acid. Alkaline water helps ‘balance out’ this acidity.

CHLOROGENIC ACID

This is the most prominent acid in coffee. It’s also what gives coffee some of its best flavors. It is found in higher concentrations in light roast coffee. It is a type of phenolic acid and may play a role in glucose regulation.

CITRIC ACID

This is another acid that is present in high quantities in coffee. It adds a pleasant fruity flavor to the coffee – an aroma that is favored by many. It is highly soluble and readily passes from the bean to water during the brewing process.

MALIC ACID

Malic acid imparts a fruity flavor to the coffee similar to apples and plums. It is depleted during the roasting process – so the darker the roast the lower the malic acid content.

QUINIC ACID

Quinic acid is formed when chlorogenic acid is broken down during the roasting process. It is most noticeable in brewed coffee that has been left sitting on the heater too long and imparts a sour unpleasant taste.

PHOSPHORIC ACID

Phosphoric acid makes up less than 1% of a cup of coffee. However, it is one of the most potent acids found in coffee. And, it has no taste. It adds nothing to the flavor. It is believed phosphoric acid originates from the hydrolysis of phytic acid in the soil.

LINOLEIC ACID

Linoleic acid is a fatty acid. It is found in coffee in very low concentrations. The levels of linoleic acid in coffee are affected by the soil type and altitude at which the bean is grown. Linoleic acid is part of the omega-6 fatty acid family and is used to boost heart and blood health.

ACETIC ACID

Acetic acid is best known for the sharp bitter taste it gives to vinegar. It is found in coffee in low doses and gives it a sharp refreshing flavor. If the level of acetic acid is too high in a coffee it suffers an unpleasant vinegary taste.

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COFFEE & ALKALINE WATER FAQ

Does Alkaline Water Make Coffee Taste Better?

Yes, alkaline water makes coffee taste better. Alkaline water extracts more flavor from the coffee bean compared to regular water. This results in a better-tasting cup of coffee.

Does Using Alkaline Water Make Coffee Less Acidic?

Yes, using alkaline water instead of regular water makes your cup of coffee less acidic. Coffee is naturally acidic with a pH of 4.7-5.0. When you add alkaline water to your coffee it increases its pH and brings it closer to the neutral value of 7.

Can You Make Coffee With Alkaline Water?

Yes, you can make coffee with alkaline water. Making coffee with alkaline water is a great idea. It will boost the flavor of your brew and help neutralize its natural acidity.  We recommend it.

What Does Coffee With Alkaline Water Taste Like?

It tastes great. Studies have shown that coffee made using alkaline water has more flavor. Alkaline water increases the amount of flavor and aroma that is extracted from the coffee bean.

What’s The Best Water pH For Coffee?

The best water pH for coffee is 7.0-8.5. According to a study performed by the University of New South Wales in Australia, using water with a pH of 7.0-8.5 extracts the best flavor from coffee beans.

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WATER SOFTENER vs. WATER FILTER – WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE?

Julie Woods 2 Comments

ionized water in a glass

What’s the difference between a water filter and a water softener?  A water softener and a water filter are two very different devices.

A water softener reduces the hardness of water by removing dissolved calcium and magnesium. While a water filter purifies water by removing contaminants such as microbes and heavy metals.

IS A WATER SOFTENER THE SAME AS A WATER FILTER?

lady drinking ionized water

No, a water softener and water filter are two different devices that perform two different roles. A water softener is used to soften hard water – and a water filter is used to purify water by removing contaminants.  So, what’s the Difference Between a Water Softener & a Water Filter?

WHAT IS A WATER SOFTENER?

water ionization

A water softener is a device that reduces the hardness of water. Water hardness is caused by the presence of dissolved calcium and magnesium in your water source.

A water softener removes these dissolved minerals as the water passes through it and ‘softens’ the hard water.

Water becomes hard naturally as it passes through the earth and comes into contact with rocks. As it brushes against the rocks it absorbs calcium and magnesium. It is the accumulation of these materials that makes water hard.

Hard water has no negative impact on your health. Drinking it is not bad for you. In fact, it may be healthier than soft water due to its high mineral content.

However, it causes difficulty around the house – negatively affecting plumbing, kitchen appliances, and even laundry.  This is why many people install a water softening device to reduce the hardness of their water source.

HOW DOES A WATER SOFTENER WORK?

A water softener uses a mechanical process called ‘ion exchange’ to soften hard water. Hard water is funneled through an ion exchange chamber and emerges the other end as softened water.

So, what exactly is an ‘ion exchange’ and how does it work?

An ion exchange is simply a chamber that has been tightly packed with specially designed resin beads that hold an electrical charge.

When hard water flows through the chamber it brushes up against these beads making physical contact. The electrical charge of the beads attracts dissolved calcium and magnesium towards them and then locks them in place.

The water then emerges from the softener with a reduced level of calcium and magnesium. By reducing the level of calcium and magnesium minerals the water is softened.

The process uses sodium to create the electrical charge and remove the dissolved minerals. So, the downside to using a water softener is increased levels of sodium in your water.

WHAT IS A WATER FILTER?

glass of ionized water sitting on a rock

A water filter is a device that improves the purity of water by removing contaminants such as particles, microbes, heavy metals, pesticides, and other chemicals.

Water filters are used to provide clean water for many uses, including – agriculture, commercial industry, and public drinking water.

They can use any combination of four methods to remove contaminants from a water source – sieving, adsorption, ion exchanges, and biofilms.

In the home setting, there are four main types of filters to choose from – mechanical filters, absorption filters, reverse osmosis filters, and sequestration filters.

The most popular type is an absorption filter called an activated carbon filter. Activated carbon filters are great for removing chemical pollutants, particulates, and microbes.

The best water ionizing machines and alkaline water pitchers come with an activated carbon filter installed.  Check out the best ionized water filters of 2023 – click here.

HOW DOES A WATER FILTER WORK?

young family enjoying fresh filtered water

Each of the five domestic water filter types work in a different way.

MECHANICAL FILTERS

Mechanical water filters are the simplest of all. They use a physical barrier to remove sediment and suspended particles. They take the form of a mesh or a ceramic structure that physically blocks objects as the water passes through.

ABSORPTION FILTERS

Absorption filters work differently. They usually use activated carbon – a substance that has an enormous surface area. As water passes through the absorption filter it moves through a maze of contact areas.

Contaminants bind to the carbon and are held in place as the water moves through. Most domestic absorption water filters use granular activated carbon, ‘GAC’. It is an excellent filter choice for removing unwanted tastes and odors.

REVERSE OSMOSIS FILTERS

Reverse osmosis (RO) filters are used to remove dissolved inorganic solids from a water source. It uses a semipermeable membrane to remove contaminants.

Reverse osmosis is a highly efficient method of filtering water and achieves great results. It is often used in combination with other filter types to achieve the highest level of water purity.

SEQUESTRATION FILTERS

These filters work by chemically isolating a substance. They are not as popular as absorption filters and rarely seen in domestic appliances. They use polyphosphate to sequester calcium and magnesium minerals to reduce limescale and corrosion.

However, they do not reduce the ‘hardness of the water. To reduce water hardness a water softening device should be used.

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Water Softener vs. Water Filter FAQ

frequently asked questions

Which Is Better – A Water Softener Or A Water Filter?

It depends on what you are trying to do. If you have hard water and want to soften it – use a water softener. If you are concerned about the purity of your water source and want to purify it to remove contaminants – use a water filter.

Does a Water Softener Filter Water?

No, a water softener does not filter water. It is used to soften water, that is – to reduce the hardness of water. To achieve this it removes dissolved calcium and magnesium but it does not filter out harmful contaminants such as microbes, chemicals, or suspended particles.

Does A Water Filter Soften Hard Water?

No, a water filter does not soften hard water. A water filter cleanses water by removing harmful pollutants such as microbes, chemicals, and suspended particles. Water filters are used to create clean safe water for industry, agriculture, and public use.

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