Author: Sam Kemper

Water Filtration Specialist Sam joined the Pure Water Ions team in the fall of 2021. He is a graduate of the University of Oregon where he qualified with a BSc in Earth Sciences. He has over 10 years of experience in the water filtration industry and specializes in multi-stage water filtration devices. Sam likes to spend his time hiking, fishing, and exploring the great outdoors.  When he's not writing about the latest water filtration technologies he likes to explore Marys Peak in Benton County with his trusty Ford Bronco and German Sheperd Max. [e] sam.kemper@purewaterions.com [t] 503-232-4012 ext. 103 [a] S. Kemper, PWI, 2170D SE 8th Ave, Portland, OR 97214, USA

Can Water Be Too Pure for Drinking?

Sam Kemper Leave a comment

lady drinking glass of pure water and smiling

Yes, water can be too pure for drinking. As strange as it sounds, it’s true. Water that is stripped of its minerals can damage your health in the long run. These minerals, such as calcium and magnesium, are crucial for your health. They contribute to bone strength and overall well-being. Ultra-pure water lacks these essential minerals and drinking it can lead to mineral deficiencies and health problems.

a glass of 100% pure water

Key Takeaways

• Drinking Pure Water can Harm Your Health due to the Lack of Essential Minerals.

• It can lead to Mineral Deficiencies and Potential Health Issues Over Time.

• Striking a Balance between Water Purity and Mineral Content is Key.

Can You Drink 100% Pure Water?

No, drinking 100% pure water is not a good idea. If water is 100% pure, it means it’s missing some important stuff, such as minerals. These minerals, like calcium and magnesium, are super important for keeping you healthy. They help your bones stay strong and contribute to your overall health.

man drinking a glass of water

So, if you drink 100% pure water, you will reduce the amount of important minerals you get. This is not good. It can cause a mineral deficiency and your health will take a hit. Your body needs the minerals that are found in regular drinking water.

Instead, you need to find a balance in your drinking water. You want it clean enough to be safe to drink, but not so pure that it’s missing all the good stuff, like minerals. So, next time you’re thirsty, aim for regular drinking water and give pure water a skip.

The Risks of Drinking Ultra-Pure Water

What are the risks of drinking ultra-pure water? If you drink it regularly over a period of time you may experience any of the risks below.

• Mineral Deficiency

Drinking ultra-pure water can be harmful to your health. Especially if you drink it regularly over time. It can lead to mineral deficiencies in your body. And, these minerals are essential for bone strength and overall well-being.

• Electrolyte Imbalance

It can also have an effect on your electrolyte levels. Electrolytes are minerals that carry electrical charges and play essential roles in various bodily functions. They play a crucial role in the normal running of nerve and muscle function. And, they help you stay hydrated and maintain a healthy pH balance. When you drink ultra-pure water it can dilute electrolyte levels in your body.  This creates an imbalance.

• Corrosive Effect

Additionally, pure water can have a corrosive effect due to its lack of minerals. It has the ability to leach harmful substances from pipes and water containers that are used to transport and store it. Corrosion can lead to the release of heavy metals and other contaminants into the water.

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The Importance of Minerals in Drinking Water

What is the importance of minerals in drinking water? Water minerals play a crucial role in your health and well-being. Their importance cannot be overstated. Essential minerals, such as calcium, magnesium, and potassium are key. Here’s why they matter.

woman drinking pure water

• Bone Health

First up is bone health. Minerals like calcium and magnesium are essential for maintaining strong and healthy bones. They contribute to your bone density and strength. This reduces the risk of osteoporosis and fractures. Especially as we get older.

• Muscle Function

Potassium, magnesium, and sodium are electrolytes that play a key role in muscle contraction and relaxation. They help regulate the nerve impulses that control muscle movement. Without them, your muscles will not function properly and you can suffer cramps and spasms.

• Hydration

Electrolytes like sodium and potassium regulate fluid balance in your body. They help ensure you maintain healthy hydration levels. These minerals allow cells to absorb and retain water as they need it. This helps prevent dehydration and maintains healthy cellular activity.

• Heart Health

Minerals like potassium and magnesium are essential for maintaining a healthy heart. They help regulate your heart rhythm and blood pressure. They play a key role in the function of the heart muscle and help reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke.

• Nutrient Absorption

Trace minerals found in drinking water, such as zinc and selenium are key helpers in metabolism and nutrient absorption. They play a role in various enzymatic reactions in your body and contribute to energy production and overall metabolic health.

 

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How Much Water Does Bamboo Need?

Sam Kemper 1 Comment

bamboo plant in the jungle

Bamboo needs enough water to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Check the top few inches of the soil. If it feels dry, the bamboo needs water. The age of the bamboo plant, soil type, drainage, and climate will affect how much water the bamboo will need. You’ll need to monitor the level of moisture in the soil to accurately determine how much water your bamboo plant will need.  This article covers all you need to know about – How Much Water Does Bamboo Need?

Does Bamboo Require a Lot of Water?

Yes, bamboo requires a lot of water. You need to make sure the soil it is growing in remains moist. The best way to do this is to use the touch test. Press your finger into the top few inches of the bamboo soil. If it feels dry, it needs more water. Factors affecting the amount of water a bamboo plant needs are the growth stage of the plant, soil type, drainage, and climate. See below.

bamboo plant in a pot

• Growth Stage of the Bamboo

During the first year of growth, a new bamboo plant needs regular watering. It consumes more water than mature bamboo. Plenty of water is needed to help the young plant grow its roots. Deep thorough watering works best for bamboo in the early growth stage – the first 12 months of growth.

• Mature Stage of Bamboo

Mature bamboo needs less water compared to a young plant. Its roots are established and it consumes less water. Mature bamboo is more robust and it can withstand short periods of drought. However, make sure the plant’s soil remains moist and add water as necessary.

• Container-Grown Bamboo

Bamboo grown in containers needs to be closely monitored. Are you using a pot to grow bamboo in your home? Some pots retain water and can easily lead to the plant becoming waterlogged. Others cause the water to drain away more quickly. You should check the soil regularly for container grown bamboo and add water only as necessary.

• Soil Type & Drainage

The amount of water bamboo needs is greatly influenced by the soil type and its drainage. When water is added does the soil retain the water or does it drain away? The plant prefers well-drained soil that prevents water logging. When water accumulates in the area of the plant it can damage the roots and lead to a condition known as root rot. Soil with good drainage helps to maintain the best moisture levels for bamboo.

• Climate

Bamboo can be grown in many different climates. It is a highly adaptable plant. And, the type of climate it is grown in will affect its water needs. In hot and dry climates, bamboo needs more water and in cool moderate climates, it needs less.

Can You Give Bamboo Too Much Water?

Yes, you can give bamboo too much water. If you give the plant too much water the soil will become water logged and this can cause root rot. This is one of the most common problems associated with excessive water around the roots. If the roots are submerged in water they cannot access the oxygen they need to grow and survive. You should take care to avoid giving too much water to the plant.

bamboo in the wild

How Much Water Do You Put in a Bamboo Plant?

You should give a bamboo plant enough water to keep the soil it is growing in moist. You’ll need to stick your finger into the top 2-3 inches of the plant soil to determine if it needs water. If the soil is dry, add water. If it is moist, leave it alone. The factors outlined above determine how much water an individual bamboo plant needs.

What is the Best Time to Water Bamboo?

The best time to water bamboo is in the morning. This allows time for the bamboo plant to absorb the moisture it needs before the temperature begins to rise. You can also water in the late afternoon. This allows the plant to regain the moisture it lost during the heat of the day. Watering during the middle of the day is not recommended, especially in hot climates. The water evaporates more quickly in the intense heat of the sun.

Should I water my Bamboo Plant Every Day?

Watering your bamboo plant is not necessary as a rule. Instead, you should check if it needs water. Perform the touch test with your finger. If the soil is dry, add some water. And, if it’s moist, leave it alone.  Instead of watering your plant everyday, spend some time figuring out if it needs water or not.

bamboo plant

Why is My Bamboo Turning Yellow?

Why are bamboo leaves turning yellow? Bamboo turning yellow can be a sign of several underlying health issues. Several factors can trigger the problem, see below.

• Overwatering & Underwatering

Both overwatering and underwatering can damage the health of a bamboo plant. Overwatering can lead to root rot and underwatering can cause dehydration and nutrient deficiencies.

• Poor Drainage

Poor drainage can lead to water logging. This can damage the roots and turn the leaves yellow.

• Nutrient Deficiencies

If the plant can’t get the nutrients it needs, it can cause the bamboo to turn yellow. The plant needs a healthy balance of nitrogen, iron, and magnesium.

• Pests & Diseases

Pests like spider mites and diseases such as fungal infections can cause trigger the yellowing of bamboo leaves.

• Poor Light Exposure

Inadequate or excessive sunlight can damage a bamboo plant and cause yellowing of the leaves.

• pH Imbalance in Soil

Bamboo plants perform best in slightly acidic soil. Imbalances in the pH of the soil can stunt nutrient absorption and lead to yellowing of the leaves.

lady smiling and making a hand gesture

READ NEXT

How Much Water Does It Take to Grow an Almond? – click here
When’s the Best Time to Water Grass? – click here
What Type of Water Do Goldfish Need? – click here

 

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Warm Water Before Bedtime – Good Idea or Bad Idea?

Sam Kemper Leave a comment

woman in bed holding a glass of warm water

Drinking warm water before bedtime has been a popular practice for centuries thanks to its many health benefits. Drinking warm water before sleep promotes relaxation, improves digestion, and boosts detoxification. However, there are some potential drawbacks, such as disrupted sleep and digestive issues. This article covers all you need to know about the advantages and potential side effects of drinking warm water before going to bed.

Drinking Warm Water Before Bedtime

Drinking warm water before bedtime has been a long-standing tradition around the world, especially in Eastern cultures such as China and Japan. The understanding that warm water has many health benefits has been carefully passed down through the generations. In recent times, science is beginning to back up these longstanding beliefs.

man drinking a glass of warm water

Warm water before bedtime has a calming effect on the body that promotes relaxation and prepares the body and mind for a restful night’s sleep. It is also believed to stimulate blood flow and helps aid better digestion. And, warm water is often consumed for its potential to help the body cleanse itself and flush out toxins.

However, it is important to weigh up the pros and the cons of drinking warm water at night and understand that the practice is not for everybody.  Want to get to something quickly? Use the links in the menu below.

Benefits of Drinking Warm Water Before Sleep

What are the benefits of drinking warm water before sleep? Below we take a look at the many advantages of drinking warm water before bedtime.

woman drinking warm water in bed

Enhances Relaxation

Drinking warm water is well known to aid relaxation. It helps calm the mind and reduce anxiety. A quick warm drink is a great way to prepare for bed and to help you unwind. Factoring some warm water into your bedtime routine is a great way to boost your chances of getting a restful sleep.

Aids Digestion

A glass of warm water aids digestion by helping break down food contained within the digestive tract. This process helps relieve constipation and relieve digestive problems. Your digestive system slows down at night and can do with a little helping hand in getting the job done.

Promotes Detoxification

Warm water plays a key role in assisting the body’s natural detoxification process. Detoxification is a vital process that promotes healthy organ function and prevents illness by removing toxins from the body.

When you consume hot water it raises body temperature and boosts blood circulation. It also stimulates sweat. Increased blood flow and sweat allow the body to flush unwanted chemicals and pollutants from the body.

Boosts Hydration

woman drinking a glass of freshly filtered water

Your body must replenish lost fluids by consuming liquids – especially water. Drinking warm water at night hydrates your body and tops up your water levels just before you call it a night. This helps maintain healthy hydration levels while you sleep and keeps you feeling comfortable and healthy.

Improves Mood

Drinking water is well associated with an improved mood. If you are thirsty and quench your thirst you feel much better. Not just physically, but mentally too. Hydration is key to mental health and a positive mood. Better hydration levels and mood lead to better sleep.

Relieves Headaches

Drinking warm water can help relieve a headache. If you find yourself suffering a headache – why not reach for a drink of warm water? It may provide the relief you need to help you drift off to sleep when you climb into bed. Hot drinks are also known to relieve sinus pain and nasal congestion.

Weight Loss

Drinking warm water before bed may help promote weight loss. As we’ve discussed above, warm water helps stimulate your digestive system. This encourages the breakdown and passing of food. And, as your digestive system slows to a near standstill during the night – a helping hand can go a long way. By promoting digestion, warm water before bed may help reduce body weight.

What Are the Side Effects of Drinking Warm Water at Night?

What are the disadvantages of drinking hot water at night? Below we discuss the possible drawbacks and why warm water before sleep is not a good idea for everyone.

warm water in a glass

Interrupted Sleep

If you drink too much warm water you may have to make frequent trips to the bathroom during the night. This leads to interrupted sleep and can leave you feeling tired and drowsy the next day. To avoid regular bathroom trips and low-quality sleep you should limit the amount of warm water you drink before bedtime.

Stomach Issues

People with sensitive stomachs should avoid drinking hot drinks before going to bed. For some, warm water can trigger cramps, bloating, and diarrhea. Other individuals find it can trigger acid reflux – an unpleasant and painful condition where stomach acid travels upwards through the esophagus.

Loss of Electrolytes

Drinking too much water can lead to an electrolyte imbalance. This happens when someone consumes too much water and not enough electrolytes from food sources. The excess volume of water flushes important electrolytes from the body. These need to be restored as soon as possible as part of a healthy diet.

Nutrient Absorption

lady drinking glass of water and smiling

Hot water can reduce the absorption of nutrients from your food. Your body absorbs nutrients during the digestive process by breaking down food using little molecules called enzymes. However, hot water can disrupt these enzymes and limit their ability to extract nutrients.

Night Sweats

Do you suffer from night sweats? When you drink warm water it raises body temperature, boosts blood flow, and can trigger sweating. If you have a problem with night sweats – a hot drink before bedtime may not be a good idea. Maybe, stick to a cold glass of water for better results.

Accidental Scalding

When you drink a hot drink, such as warm water, there’s always a chance of scalding. If you drop your cup or have an accidental spill you could suffer a scalding. The best advice is to drink warm water, not hot water. Aim for a temperature that is pleasant to drink but won’t scald should an accident occur.

Sleep Apnea

There is evidence to suggest that drinking warm water before sleeping can aggravate sleep apnea. If you suffer from sleep apnea you should avoid drinking warm water before bedtime. Consult a medical professional for further advice.

RELATED

Tips for Drinking Warm Water

Want to try drinking some water before bedtime? Here are some tips for how to get started and how to establish a healthy warm water routine.

man drinking a glass of water

Start Small

If you’re new to drinking warm water before bed, start small and gradually work your way up. A small cup with just half a cup or 4 oz of warm water is a good start.

Grab a Thermal Cup

A thermal cup is great for keeping the water warm. If you want to sip the warm water rather than guzzle it all in one go, try using a thermal cup.

Try Some Flavor

If the taste of warm water is not appealing to you, try adding some flavor. A slice of lemon, a squeeze of honey, and even a little ginger all work wonders.

Timing is Key

Try and drink the warm water at least 30 minutes before going to bed. This allows your body time to absorb it and prevent bloating or discomfort.

Develop a Routine

Once you’ve mastered the steps above, try and make it a routine. Establish a habit of preparing and drinking warm water before climbing into bed.

Stick With It

If you want to truly experience the benefits of drinking warm water you need to stick with it. It can take weeks or even months before you really begin to feel the positive effects.

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WHAT MINERALS ARE IN WATER?

Sam Kemper 1 Comment

glass of ionized alkaline water

Are there minerals in water? Yes, there are minerals in water. You will find minerals in both bottled water and in tap water. The most common minerals in water are calcium, magnesium, sodium, fluoride, potassium, and phosphorus. And, trace elements include copper, iron, selenium, chromium, and zinc.

ARE THERE MINERALS IN WATER?

Water contains a range of minerals. It picks up these minerals naturally as it passes through rivers and streams and makes contact with rocks and the earth’s crust.

The minerals most commonly found in water are calcium, magnesium, sodium, fluoride, potassium, and phosphorus. Let’s take a closer look at each one.

CALCIUM

Calcium is a mineral that plays an important role in maintaining your health. This mineral helps protect your bones and teeth by keeping them strong. It also helps the regular function of
blood clotting, hormone production, and cell growth.

MAGNESIUM

Magnesium is another mineral you need to help protect your health. It plays a key function in keeping bones strong and healthy. And, it is involved in energy metabolism and the structure and performance of muscles.

SODIUM

Sodium is a vital mineral. We need to ingest sodium for the role it plays in the regulation of blood pressure and hydration levels. However, too much sodium is bad news and can result in high blood pressure. We need to strike a careful balance and make sure we don’t take in too much.

FLUORIDE

Fluoride can be absorbed naturally by water as it passes through the earth’s crust. It is also common practice to add fluoride to tap water. This mineral plays a role in preventing tooth decay.

For this reason, fluoride is also added to toothpaste. Some people believe that high levels of fluoride in water may be associated with certain health risks.

POTASSIUM

Potassium plays a similar role to sodium. This mineral helps regulate your fluid balance and your blood pressure. It is also involved in the regulation of blood sugar levels and nerve impulses. All your bodily tissues require the presence of potassium.

PHOSPHORUS

Phosphorus is mineral that plays an important role in the human body. It forms a vital component of bones, teeth, and your genetic material. It is also involved in the production of energy at a cellular level. A lack of phosphorous can lead to fatigue and tiredness.

TRACE ELEMENTS IN TAP WATER

In addition to the minerals outlined above several trace elements are also found in water. These trace elements are also minerals but are present in much smaller concentrations. And, sometimes they are not present at all.

woman drinking alkaline water

The trace elements most commonly found in water are copper, iron, selenium, chromium, and zinc. Let’s take a look at each one and discuss how it impacts your body and your health.

COPPER

The presence of copper is often found in water as a trace element. Copper plays a role in protecting your cardiovascular health, immune system, and blood clotting.

Your body also uses copper as it forms new connective tissue and bone structures. And, it is involved in energy production and neurotransmitter synthesis.

IRON

Iron is a vital mineral used in the production of new blood cells. It is also used to transport oxygen throughout your body. A lack of iron in the human body leads to the condition anemia. The consumption of too much iron can lead to a feeling of nausea and constipation.

SELENIUM

Selenium is found in trace quantities in many household tap water supplies. This mineral plays an important antioxidant role in our bodies. But how?

It helps protect our cells and shield them from oxidative damage. It is also involved in the operation of the reproductive system, DNA synthesis, and thyroid hormone metabolism.

CHROMIUM

Chromium is a mineral that helps your body break down protein, fats, and carbohydrates. It plays a role in converting carbohydrates into energy.

This trace mineral is not an essential component of your diet but it is believed it may help increase HDL (good cholesterol) levels and boost insulin sensitivity.

ZINC

Zinc is another trace element found in tap water. This mineral plays a role in tissue growth and the synthesis of cellular proteins. It is an essential mineral and also plays a role in the immune system, wound healing, and DNA synthesis.

ARE THERE MINERALS IN TAP WATER?

water in a glass with ice

Yes, there are minerals in tap water. Almost all tap water will contain some form of mineral content. The mineral content will vary from one location to the next. When minerals are present at the right concentrations they contribute to your overall health and well-being.

HOW DO MINERALS GET INTO WATER?

Minerals are absorbed into tap water naturally. As water moves through rivers, lakes, and streams it absorbs minerals. This happens when it brushes up against rocks in the earth’s crust and surface.

lady in gym drinking alkaline water

Sometimes minerals are added to the water supply by a local authority. This can happen when it is believed the addition of a mineral will impart some kind of health benefit. For example, sometimes fluoride is added because it is believed to promote healthy teeth.

WHAT MINERALS ARE IN TAP WATER?

The minerals found in tap water will vary depending on where you live and how your water is treated before it reaches your tap. Water treatment and the area you live in will play a key role in the mineral composition of your tap water.

water pouring from a bottle

This means that two samples of tap water taken from two different locations can have very different mineral content. There is a large degree of variance as you move from one area to another.

The main source of minerals in your tap water comes from the natural environment the water moves through as it makes its way to your tap. When water brushes up against rocks and river beds it absorbs tiny amounts of minerals.

These minerals dissolve into the water and become invisible to the human eye. The minerals most commonly found in tap water are calcium, magnesium, sodium, fluoride, potassium, and phosphorus.

In addition, some minerals can be found in tiny quantities. These minerals are called trace elements. The trace elements most commonly found in tap water are copper, iron, selenium, chromium, and zinc.

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CAN YOU DRINK PURE WATER?

HEAVY METALS IN DRINKING WATER

TIPS FOR MASTERING THE ART OF WATER COOLER CHAT

ALKALINE WATER vs FILTERED WATER

HOW TO TEST THE PH OF YOUR WATER

WHAT IS TDS IN WATER

HOW MANY GALLONS OF WATER CAN A CAMEL DRINK?

DOES FILTERED WATER HAVE MINERALS?

Do water filters remove minerals from water? Yes, some do. But it depends on the type of water filter you are using. Water filters known as Reverse Osmosis filters do remove minerals from water.

reverse osmosis filtered water in a glass

These filters use a high-performance semi-permeable membrane that removes tiny particles from water – including minerals. Some reverse osmosis filters include a remineralization step to reintroduce minerals to the water after it has been filtered.

On the other hand, activated carbon and ceramic water filters do not remove minerals. These filters remove contaminants but allow the dissolved minerals to pass through. They will not affect the mineral content of your water source.

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IONIZED vs DE-IONIZED WATER – click here

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PROS & CONS OF REVERSE OSMOSIS WATER – click here

 

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR

WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN ALKALINE WATER AND FILTERED WATER?

Sam Kemper 3 Comments

lasy drinking a glass of water

What’s the difference between alkaline water and filtered water? Alkaline water has an elevated pH value of between 7-14. Filtered water is water that has been passed through a water filtration device to remove contaminants. They are two different types of water.

WHICH IS BETTER ALKALINE WATER OR FILTERED WATER?

Which type of water is better – alkaline water or filtered water? Alkaline water and filtered water are two completely different types of water.

water ionization

Alkaline water has an elevated pH. This means it is the opposite of acidic water. Alkaline water is better if you want to increase the pH of your water and neutralize excess acidity levels.

Filtered water has been treated to remove contaminants and toxins. It is a way of cleaning water. It purifies water by passing it through a water filter and removing particles and chemicals.

If your drinking water is contaminated and needs to be purified – filtered water is better. By filtering contaminated water you can make it safe to drink.

WHAT IS ALKALINE WATER?

Alkaline water is any water that has a pH above 7. The pH scale is used to measure how acidic or alkaline a substance is. It runs from 0-14. 

glass of reverse osmosis filtered water in the forest

Anything below 7 is acidic, anything above 7 is alkaline, and 7 is neutral. The higher the value the more alkaline a substance is. Similarly, the lower the value, the more acidic a substance is.

Alkaline water has recently seen a surge in popularity. People claim that drinking alkaline water neutralizes excess acidity in the body and boosts health. However, there is no scientific evidence to support these claims.  For more information on alkaline water – see here.

HOW TO MAKE ALKALINE WATER

How is alkaline water made? The best way to make alkaline water is to use an alkaline water ionizer machine. These home appliances use your regular tap water supply and convert it to alkaline water.

woman drinking alkaline water

Other methods for making alkaline water at home include using pH drops, baking soda, lemon juice, vinegar, salt, coconut, and cucumber. For more information on how to make alkaline water at home – click here. 

ADVANTAGES OF ALKALINE WATER

What are the advantages of alkaline water? Proponents of alkaline water say that drinking it comes with a whole range of potential health benefits. But, none of these claims are backed up by scientific evidence.

The potential benefits of alkaline water are better skin health, system detoxification, easing acid reflux, and reducing blood pressure. Although, medical professionals point out that there is no evidence to back up these claims.

Best Alkaline Water Machines 2023

• BEST ALKALINE WATER MACHINE – click here

WHAT IS FILTERED WATER?

Filtered water is water that has been treated by passing it through a water filtration device to remove contaminants. 

reverse osmosis filtered water in a glass

Bottled mineral water and most tap water supplies are filtered to remove harmful contaminants to make the water safe to drink and taste better. 

To find out if you’re home water supply has been filtered and is safe to drink you should contact your local water provider.

TYPES OF FILTERED WATER

When covering – what’s the difference between alkaline water and filtered water – we need to take a look at the different types of filtered water.  There are many types of water filtration technologies but the aim of every one of them is the same – to remove contaminants from the water.

lady drinking ionized water

Water filtration is used to make water taste better, look better, and safe to drink. Without water filtration, we would all be drinking dirty water.  The four main types of water filters used in the domestic setting are activated carbon filter, reverse osmosis, ion-exchange, and distillation.

Activated Carbon Filter

An activated carbon filter is the most common type of water filter. It is regularly used in domestic water filtration devices. It uses an ‘activated-carbon’ medium to bind contaminants as the water passes through the filter. 

The contaminants are trapped inside the carbon medium while the water is free to pass through. Carbon filters are effective in removing the taste of chlorine, other chemicals, and a wide range of contaminants in your drinking water.

Ion Exchange

An ion-exchange water filter removes contaminants from water in the form of undesirable dissolved ions by replacing them with harmless ions of the same electrical charge from using an ion-exchange resin.

An ion exchange filter is inexpensive and effective for the removal of dissolved inorganics contaminants such as arsenic, fluoride, nitrates, uranium, and sulfates. They are also regenerable for continuous usage.

Reverse Osmosis

Reverse osmosis is an incredibly effective way of filtering water. The process removes up to 99% of all water contaminants to produce high-quality clean water.

Reverse osmosis filtration passes water through a semi-permeable membrane with a pore size so small – it allows water molecules to pass but blocks microscopic contaminants.

The pore size of a reverse osmosis filter membrane can be as small as 0.0001 microns. These membranes greatly reduce the presence of harmful metals, lead, mercury, and microbes.

Distillation

A distillation filtration system boils source water into steam before condensing it back into water. As water is transformed to steam it leaves behind its contaminants.

It then travels through the distillation apparatus in its gaseous form before being cooled to condense back into water. The filtered cooled water is then collected in a reservoir.

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CONTAMINANTS IN DRINKING WATER

What are the most common contaminants found in drinking water? According to the United States Environmental Protection Agency there are five types of contaminants in our drinking water: physical, chemical, biological, and radiological.

woman testing water in a lab

Physical – sediment suspended in the water of lakes, rivers, and streams. Often caused by soil erosion.

Chemical – nitrogen, bleach, pesticides, metals, and toxins produced by bacteria, human or animal drugs.

Biological – organisms such as microbes and viruses. Often referred to as microbiological contaminants they include bacteria, viruses, parasites, and protozoa.

Radiological – radiological contaminants are hazardous unstable atoms that emit hazardous ionizing radiation. Cesium, uranium, and plutonium are examples of radiological contaminants. You definitely don’t want these in your drinking water.

frequently asked questions

IS ALKALINE WATER BETTER THAN FILTERED WATER?

Alkaline water and filtered water are two completely different types of water. Alkaline water is better if you want high pH water with higher than normal alkalinity.

Filtered water is better if you want clean, purified water.  It has been passed through a water filtration system to remove contaminants. Water filtration purifies water to remove harmful substances and make it safe for drinking.

IS ALKALINE WATER JUST FILTERED WATER?

No, alkaline water is not just filtered water. Alkaline water is a special type of water that has an increased level of alkalinity. It is the opposite of acidic water.

Alkaline water has a pH above 7. Some people drink it for its potential health benefits – but there is no evidence to back up these health claims.

RELATED

HEAVY METALS IN DRINKING WATER – click here

WATER SOFTENER vs WATER FILTER – click here

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PROS & CONS OF REVERSE OSMOSIS WATER – click here

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR

HEAVY METALS IN TAP WATER

Sam Kemper 2 Comments

water in a glass with ice

The main heavy metals found in drinking water are lead, arsenic, mercury, cadmium, manganese, and copper. These metals are toxic and cause damage to your health. Drinking water is monitored for the presence and concentration of heavy metals.

TOP SIX HEAVY METALS IN WATER

water testing in lab

The six most common heavy metals found in drinking water are lead, arsenic, mercury, cadmium, manganese, and copper. They are all toxic to the human body. Let’s take a look at each of these heavy metals in more detail.

JUMP TO CONTENT

LEAD  |  ARSENIC  |  MERCURY  

CADMIUM  |  MANGANESE  |  COPPER   

1: LEAD

What Is Lead?

Lead is a naturally occurring metal found in small amounts in the earth’s outer crust. It is considered harmful at any dose. Even small amounts of lead in drinking water are dangerous.

Pollution caused by manufacturing activities and the burning of fossil fuels distributes lead through the environment. It is also regularly found in batteries, lead-based paint, and metal pipes.

How Does It Get Into The Water Supply?

Lead enters the water supply through the delivery system. Lead water pipes are the main source of lead in drinking water.

It can pass into water as it passes through lead pipes that make up the water system or as it passes through plumbing inside a home. Even copper pipes leach lead as they get old and corrode.

What Are the Health Effects of Lead in Water?

Lead is considered toxic at any level – even in small quantities. It can accumulate in your body over time. It causes damage to damage to your brain, liver, kidney, heart, brain, and bones.

Consuming lead over a period of time can cause nervous system dysfunction, kidney disease, immune system damage, and rheumatoid arthritis. In children, it can lead to developmental damage, seizures, and lower IQ.

How Do I Remove It?

Removing lead from your water supply is usually not feasible due to the source being the water system itself. Therefore you need to treat the water as it arrives in your home.

Your best options are to use a reverse osmosis, distillation, or carbon filter device that has been designed for lead removal. A simple workaround is to flush the tap for 1-2 minutes before collecting drinking water.

2: ARSENIC

What Is Arsenic?

Arsenic is one of the most toxic heavy metals found in drinking water. It is a naturally occurring metal found in the earth’s crust – often the result of volcanic activity.

Arsenic is also produced through human activities such as coal burning, pesticide production, and mining.

How Does It Get Into The Water Supply?

Arsenic can enter the water supply through the natural erosion of rock that contains arsenic. However, it is more commonly the result of human activity.

Manufacturing and agriculture are two key sources of arsenic. The disposal of wastewater from industry, agricultural fertilizers, and the use of pesticides add arsenic to the groundwater supply.

What Are the Health Effects?

Arsenic is highly toxic. Exposure has been linked to cancer, cause neurological problems, cardiovascular disease, immune system disorders, and diabetes. In children, it can result in a lowered IQ.

It is believed to contribute to many types of cancer, including prostate, kidneys, bladder, lungs, skin, and liver cancer

How Do I Remove It?

The best way to remove arsenic is to use a water treatment system that has been specifically designed for arsenic removal. The options include reverse osmosis, ultra-filtration, distillation, and ion exchange devices.

3: MERCURY

water with bubbles

What Is Mercury?

Mercury is a neurotoxin and is highly toxic. It is a liquid metal and is found naturally in rock formations in the earth. It is often found in coal.

Mercury poisoning can result from exposure to water-soluble forms of mercury in your tap water.

How Does It Get Into The Water Supply?

Mercury occurs naturally in rock formations in the environment. It can seep into groundwater when the two come into contact.

Mercury can also enter the water supply as a result of human pollution. It is found in many household products such as dry-cell batteries, switches, and even fluorescent light bulbs.

The incorrect disposal of these items accounts for 50% of all mercury water contamination according to the EPA, (U.S. Environmental Protection Agency).

What Are the Health Effects?

Mercury poisoning is known to cause kidney damage, affect the nervous system, kidneys, liver, and trigger emotional instability and insomnia.

Its effects on children can be even more severe and can damage the brain and nervous system. Children exposed to mercury in the womb can suffer harm to cognitive thinking, memory, attention, motor, and visual skills.

How Do I Remove It?

To remove mercury from your tap water you will have to use a filtration device that has been designed and certified for mercury removal.

Options include reverse osmosis and mercury filtration filter cartridges. Most of these devices use thin-film composite membranes or special filters containing KDF media that reduce mercury levels.

4: CADMIUM

What Is Cadmium?

Cadmium is a soft silver-white metal. It is toxic to the human body. Cadmium is commonly used in metal plating, machinery, and batteries.

Cadmium pollution has have increased dramatically in recent decades. The toxic metal is most commonly found in rechargeable nickel-cadmium batteries.

How Does It Get Into The Water Supply?

The most common source of cadmium in the water supply is caused by the improper disposal of rechargeable batteries.

These batteries require specialist disposal but are usually just dumped in the same way as regular household waste.

Cadmium also enters the water supply through impurities in the zinc of water pipes and fittings. It leaches into water as it passes through the pipes. It is also found in some agricultural fertilizers.

What Are the Health Effects?

Cadmium causes cancer in humans. The International Agency for Research on Cancer classifies cadmium in Group 1. This category is used when there is sufficient evidence of carcinogenicity in humans

It is also known to cause kidney, liver, and musculoskeletal, bone and blood damage. Acute exposure results in nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, muscle cramps.

How Do I Remove It?

Cadmium can be removed from water using specially designed filtration devices. Your options include ion exchange, reverse osmosis, coagulation/filtration, and lime softening cadmium removal processes.

5: MANGANESE

water pouring into a pool of water

What Is Manganese?

Manganese is a silver-grey metal that occurs naturally in rocks and soil. In small quantities, it is good for human health and is an important part of our overall diet.

However, high levels of manganese are toxic and can damage human health. It is used in the manufacture of iron and steel and is found in paints, fireworks, and cosmetics.

How Does It Get Into The Water Supply?

Manganese naturally makes its way into the water supply as water passes through soil and rocks that contain manganese.

For this reason, manganese occurs naturally in surface water such as lakes and rivers, and underground water. This water is then used as a source for our water supply.

It also results from the waste run-off from the manufacture of iron, batteries, glass, fireworks, and agricultural fertilizers.

What Are the Health Effects?

Exposure to high levels of manganese can cause a condition called manganism. The illness is similar to Parkinson’s disease and has been observed in metalworkers that have been exposed to high levels of manganese.

In children, manganese can cause behavioral problems, speech and memory difficulties, lowered IQ, and a lack of coordination.

How Do I Remove It?

There are a number of options available for the removal of manganese from your water source including manganese cation exchange, water softening, filtration, distillation, and reverse osmosis.

You should choose a system that has been specifically designed and certified for manganese removal.

6: COPPER

What Is Copper?

Copper is a metal that occurs naturally in soil, rock formations, plants, and water. It is the most common heavy metal found in water.

Copper is an essential part of your diet and trace amounts are essential for survival. However, if you consume too much it can lead to health problems.

It is used to make electrical wiring, plumbing components, and pesticides.

How Does It Get Into The Water Supply?

Copper becomes a problem when it gets into the water supply in high concentrations. The two main sources of copper in drinking water are copper pipes and human pollution.

The biggest source of copper occurs when water passes through corroded copper pipes. This is particularly a concern for acidic water.

Other sources come from human pollution, namely mining, farming, manufacturing operations that release copper polluted water into the environment.

What Are the Health Effects?

High levels of copper exposure can cause harmful effects such as irritation to the mouth, nose, and eyes, diarrhea, stomach cramps, vomiting, and nausea. Infants under one and people with Wilson’s disease are particularly sensitive to copper.

How Do I Remove It?

Copper can be removed from water using reverse osmosis, ultra-filtration, distillation, and ion exchange methods. Just make sure you use a filtration system that has been designed and certified for copper removal.

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• BEST ALKALINE WATER MACHINE 2024

WHAT ARE SAFE LEVELS OF HEAVY METALS IN DRINKING WATER?

woman testing water in a lab

So, what are the acceptable levels of heavy metals in drinking water, and who sets the standards?

In the US the EPA defines the criteria for acceptable levels of heavy metals and other pollutants in drinking water. The EPA is an independent agency of the United States federal government tasked with environmental protection matters.

At a global level the WHO, (World Health Organization), sets the standards for drinking water and sets guidelines for the acceptable level of contaminants in drinking water.

See the table below for the EPA and WHO heavy metal safety limits in drinking water.

heavy metal safety limits in drinking water - EPA & WHO

HO TO TEST FOR HEAVY METALS IN WATER

If you want to test your water supply for the presence of heavy metals you should contact a professional water testing lab. A quick google search will provide you with a list of suitable labs in your area.

These labs use a testing technique called spectrometry to test for the presence of heavy metals in water. Spectrometry is the measurement of interactions between light and matter.

Several different types of spectrometry are used when it comes to testing for heavy metals, these include:

  • Atomic Absorption Spectrometry
  • Inductively Coupled Plasma Optical Emission Spectrometry
  • Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry

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• Difference Alkaline Water vs Filtered Water

 

frequently asked questions

FAQ – Heavy Metals in Water

What Is a Heavy Metal?

Heavy metals are metals that have high densities and are toxic at low concentrations. Examples of heavy metals include lead (Pb), arsenic (As), mercury (Hg), cadmium (Cd), manganese (Mn), and copper (Cu).

Heavy metals occur naturally in the earth’s crust and get into our bodies via the water we drink, the food we eat, and the air we breathe.

Are There Heavy Metals in Tap Water?

Yes, heavy metals are regularly found in tap water. The types of heavy metals and their concentration varies depending on the water source.

Heavy metals are toxic and represent a danger to your health. Some of them get into the water supply naturally as it passes through the earth’s crust. Others are the result of human activity and pollution.

Tap water must be continually tested to monitor their presence for safety purposes. Consuming heavy metals when you drink tap water has a negative effect on your health.

Do Doctors Test for Heavy Metals?

Yes, you can get a blood test done with your doctor. The test is known as a heavy metals panel or a heavy metal toxicity test.

It is a group of tests that measure the levels of heavy metals in your blood. The metals most commonly tested for are lead, arsenic, mercury, and cadmium.

How Does A Heavy Metal Blood Test Work?

Testing for heavy metals can be performed using a blood, urine, hair, or fingernail sample.  All you need to do is go to your doctor and request a heavy metals panel or a heavy metal toxicity test.

The actual test will be performed in a laboratory and the results will be sent to your doctor.

How Do Heavy Metals Affect the Brain?

Heavy metals harm brain health. Two heavy metals, in particular, are known to affect the brain – lead and mercury.

Lead damages brain cells, triggers nervous system dysfunction, and causes developmental problems in children.

Mercury damages the nervous system, triggers emotional instability, and causes insomnia. Its effects on children are even more severe.

What are the Symptoms of Heavy Metal Toxicity?

The symptoms of heavy metal toxicity in water are:

  • Abdominal Pain
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhea
  • Dehydration
  • Heart Irregularities
  • Nervous System Abnormalities (e.g. tingling sensation or numbness)

Can Heavy Metals Be Removed From the Body?

Yes, heavy metals that pass naturally through the body are excreted in your urine. Other heavy metals can be removed using a treatment called chelation.

Chelation therapy involves the injection of a chelating agent into the body. This agent binds to heavy metals in the bloodstream and removes them from the body in your urine.

How Do You Cleanse Your Body of Mercury?

If you have suffered serious mercury poisoning your doctor will recommend chelation therapy. This treatment involves the injection of a chelating agent into the body that binds to mercury in your blood and removes it from the body in your urine.

List of Heavy Metals in Drinking Water

The heavy metals most commonly found in water are:

  • Lead
  • Arsenic
  • Mercury
  • Cadmium
  • Manganese
  • Copper

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HOW TO TEST WATER HARDNESS AT HOME

Sam Kemper 2 Comments

glass of ionized water sitting on a rock

Testing water hardness at home is easy. You can use the simple ‘bottle and soap’ method or buy a hard water test strip kit online. Both methods are very easy to perform and take just seconds to show results. If you’d prefer a professional analysis you can send a water sample to a test lab.

TESTING WATER HARDNESS AT HOME

There are several methods you can use to test the level of hardness of your water supply. The first two methods we will look at are DIY tests you can do at home.

water in a glass with ice

They are easy to perform and will give you a good indication of the level of hardness of your water. The final method involves getting an accurate reading from a professional water testing lab.

1: BOTTLE & SOAP TEST

This is a really simple and cheap method to test for hard water at home. All you need is a clean transparent bottle – like a plastic water bottle.

Fill the bottle two-thirds with water. Then, add some liquid hand soap. It has to be regular soap – don’t use detergent or dish washing liquid.

Then, put the cap back on the bottle and shake it vigorously for 10 seconds. After shaking place the bottle on your countertop and take a look at the solution.

If a large amount of suds formed at the top and the water below remains clear – you have soft water. If little to no suds formed and you have cloudy water below – then you have hard water.

2: HARD WATER TEST STRIPS

A more accurate way to test your water is to use a hard water test strip kit. These kits are inexpensive and can be easily picked up online.

The testing process is simple. First up, remove one of the test strips from the pack. Then either immerse it in a glass of water or hold it under a running tap for a few seconds.

The test strip will then change color as a chemical reaction takes effect. All you need to do is compare the color against the color chart provided for your result.

This will give you a clear result and tell you if you have a hard or soft water supply in your home.

3: WATER TESTING LABORATORY

The most comprehensive and accurate method is to take a water sample and send it to a water testing laboratory for professional analysis. This method will take time to process and cost quite a bit more money.

woman testing water in a lab

Your best bet is to try the home DIY methods mentioned above first. Then, if you feel your water needs more comprehensive analysis – send it to a testing lab. They can also test for chlorine, nitrates, pH, heavy metals, and microbes.

WHAT IS WATER HARDNESS?

Water hardness is the amount of dissolved calcium and magnesium in your water. Hard water has a high level of dissolved calcium and magnesium. And, soft water has a low level.

glass of alkaline water sitting on a table

Hard water and soft water both look the same – so you won’t be able to tell them apart just by looking at them.

CALCIUM & MAGNESIUM

Water becomes hard when it absorbs calcium and magnesium minerals as it passes through rocks. Mineral absorption is a natural process and is very common across the United States.

Hard water is not bad for your health. In fact, it may even have some health benefits due to its high mineral content.

Water hardness is expressed in ‘grains per gallon’ or ‘milligrams per liter’. Hard water contains 7.0-10.5 grains per gallon.

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• BEST RO UNDER SINK WATER FILTERS – click here
• DIFFERENCE BETWEEN ALKALINE WATER & FILTERED WATER – click here

SIGNS OF WATER HARDNESS

While hard water is not bad for your health it can lead to several problems throughout the house. The mineral high water can damage home appliances, clog your plumbing, and leave unwanted residues.

a drop of water falling into a pool of water

When hard water is heated it creates a white-colored deposit called limescale. You may notice limescale build-up in your kettle or dishwasher if you have a hard water supply.

Hard water also causes problems with your laundry. The minerals in the water interact with the detergent and stop it from working effectively. It can leave clothes feeling stiff and weaken fabrics – meaning clothes get worn out more quickly.

HARD WATER SOLUTIONS

So, now that we know what hard water is and the damage it can cause we need to look at how to resolve the problem. How do you fix hard water?

a glass of water

For most people removing water hardness is not a priority. It does not damage our health and the minerals it contains may actually help us. And, it tastes better than soft water.

There are a range of hard water treatments you can use at home. The most effective option is to use an ion exchange water softener.

ION EXCHANGE WATER SOFTENER

This device uses a mechanical process where the hard water is fed through a collection of tiny plastic resin beads.

As the hard water flows through the beads an electric charge is used to attract the calcium and magnesium ions and then lock them in place. This way they are removed from the water.

The downside of using an ion exchange softener is that it adds sodium to your supply. As the hardness ions are trapped inside the device, sodium is released and added to the water.

WATER HARDNESS BY AREA AND ZIP CODE USA

If you are interested in reviewing your water hardness by location – the good people over at flixwater have created an online tool that allows you to do just that. Check it out – over here.

water pouring from a bottle

Interestingly, over 30% of cities in the US have a very hard water supply. while just 4% benefit from soft water. The city with the hardest water supply is Bullhead City on the banks of the Colorado River in Arizona.

frequently asked questions

How To Test Water Hardness At Home FAQ

How Can You Tell If Your Water Is Hard or Soft?

The easiest way to tell if your water is hard or soft is to perform the ‘soap and bottle’ test. Just put some water in a transparent bottle, add some hand soap and give it a good shake.

If very little or no suds form and the water looks a little cloudy – you’ve got hard water. If you’ve got lots of suds and clear water – you have soft water.

What Is A Good Number For Water Hardness?

Water hardness can be measured in several different ways – grains/gallon, milligrams/liter, or parts per million. See the figures below for details on water hardness based on these values.

water hardness defined by measurement numbers

What Is The Unit of Water Hardness?

Water hardness can be measured in grains/gallon, milligrams/liter, or parts per million. In the US the unit used is grains/gallon (grains/gal), while in Europe milligrams/liter (mg/l) is the preferred unit of measurement.

What Is The Main Cause Of Hard Water?

Water hardness occurs naturally as water passes through rock formations in the earth. It collects calcium and magnesium mineral deposits as it comes into contact with rocks. And, it is the presence of these dissolved minerals in the water that causes hardness.

At What Hardness Do You Need To Use A Water Softener?

Most people do not treat water to remove hardness. Water hardness is not detrimental to your health. In fact, the presence of high levels of minerals might be good for you.

If you feel hard water is causing you problems you can choose to treat it at any stage. The most common way to treat a home water supply is to use an ion exchange water softener device.

How Do I Know If I’m In A Hard Water Area?

If you live in the United States you can check online to see if you live in a hard water area. There are several free tools you can use to check the city you live in or use your zip code. A quick google search will take you to one of these sites.

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WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN IONIZED WATER AND DEIONIZED WATER?

Sam Kemper 3 Comments

water pouring from a bottle

Ionized water has been through an electrochemical process to create alkaline and acidic water. Deionized water is a type of purified water that has had impurities called ions removed. They are two completely different types of water.

Don’t confuse ionized water with deionized water. They are two very different types of water. Ionized water is used to create alkaline and acidic water. While ionized water is a type of purified water that has had electrically charged molecules called ions removed.  Below we explore everything you need to know about ionized vs deionized water.

WHAT IS IONIZED WATER?

And, what’s the difference between ionized and deionized water?  Ionized water is used to create alkaline water and acidic water. It uses a process called water ionization to turn regular water into ionized water.

glass of ionized water sitting on a rock

It is a process used to create alkaline water and acidic water. These are collected separately and used for a range of popular household applications.

ALKALINE & ACIDIC WATER

Alkaline water has a high pH, falling between 7 and 14 on the pH scale. Alkaline water is popular for its potential health benefits which include better skin health, detoxification, and treating acid reflux.

Acidic water has a low pH, falling between 0 and 7 on the pH scale. It is used for household cleaning, sterilization, and skincare.

WHAT IS DEIONIZED WATER?

Deionized water is a popular form of purified water. It involves removing impurities in the water called ions. The process is called water deionization.

deionized water

For processes requiring purified water, these ions are regarded as impurities and need to be removed from the water. This is where ion removal or deionized water comes into play.

Ions are small particles that have an electrical charge. There are two types of ions in water, positive ions and negative ions. Positive ions are called ‘cations’ and negative ions are called ‘anions’.

WHAT IS IONIZED WATER USED FOR?

Ionized water can be split into two groups – ionized alkaline water and ionized acidic water. Each of these has a distinct range of applications.

flow of water

Applications of Alkaline Water

  • Drinking-Water
  • Potential Health Benefits
  • Cooking Vegetables
  • Making Tea & Coffee
  • Dyeing Fabrics

Applications of Acidic Water

  • Household Cleaning
  • Dish Washing
  • Watering Plants
  • Disinfecting Utensils
  • Skin Care

WHAT IS DEIONIZED WATER USED FOR?

Deionized water is a popular form of purified water used in many commercial and household applications. It is used in settings that require a relatively cheap and readily available form of purified water.  See below for a list of its most common applications.

water pouring into a pool of water

Automotive
Deionized water does not contain any salts.  This makes it a great choice for automotive applications. Salts can damage engines, so deionized water is used in windscreen wash, radiator fluids, and anti-freeze formulas.

Aquariums
It’s clean, fish-friendly, and a great water for aquariums and marine tanks.

Beauty Products
It’s the go-to water base used in the production of shampoos, moisturizers, and skin cleansers.

Hospitals
Deionized water is an excellent choice for cleaning jobs in hospital settings where water purity is vital.

Industry
Frequently used in industrial settings as a water rinse due to its high purity and very low salt levels. Salt corrodes and damages metallic equipment and fittings.

Laboratories
Many laboratory procedures require the use of deionized water in bench work and for cleaning utensils.

PH
Deionized water Ph is in the range of 6.0 to 6.4.  This makes it mildly acidic.

We can see, ionized water vs deionized water are two very different types of water.  They’re made in different ways and serve very different purposes.  Don’t get the two mixed up.

HOW IS IONIZED WATER MADE?

Let’s take a look at how to de ionize water.  The easiest way to make ionized water is using a water ionizer. This a machine that takes regular tap water and converts it to ionized water.

lasy drinking a glass of alkaline water

The device used an electrochemical process to ionize the water and convert it into alkaline and acidic water. All you need to do is add water to the machine and let it get to work.

Using high conductivity electroplates it separates water into hydrogen and oxygen molecules. If there are a greater number of H+ ions than OH- ions the water is acidic.

If the number of OH- is greater than the number of H+ then the water is alkaline.  Check out the Best Alkaline Water Ionizers  – see here.

HOW IS DEIONIZED WATER MADE?

Deionized water is made using an ion exchange resin. These resins contain tiny beads that have electrical charges that are used to attract and remove the ion impurities contained in water.

ionized water in a glass

The positively charged beads are used to attract and remove the negative ions in the water. And, the negatively charged beads remove the positive ions in the water.

As the water passes through the filter resin both types of ion are held in place and purified water flows from the filter.

Ion exchange filters have a limited lifespan and lose charge as they purify water. They need to be replaced and regenerated when they reach the end of their life cycle.

WHAT ION IMPURITIES ARE REMOVED?

Regular water is full of ions that it picks up as it moves through rocks and passes through pipes. It collects these minerals naturally as it brushes up against them. Deionization removes these minerals using their positive (cation) or negative (anion) molecular charge.

woman testing water in a lab

Cation Impurities Removed

  • Magnesium
  • Iron
  • Calcium
  • Manganese
  • Hydrogen
  • Sodium

Anion Impurities Removed

  • Sulfates
  • Nitrates
  • Chlorides
  • Carbonates
  • Hydroxyl
  • Silica

THE BOTTOM LINE – THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN IONIZED WATER AND DEIONIZED WATER?

Don’t confuse ionized and deionized water. One is used to create alkaline and acidic water while the other is a form of purified water.  Deionized water vs ionized water – are two very different things.

lady making a hand gesture and smiling

Ionized alkaline water is a popular form of drinking water. While deionized water is used in many settings as a safe and cheap form of purified water with a very low salt content.  It is often used in the automotive industry.

What About Deionized Water vs Tap Water?

Regular tap water contains many ions.  Mostly from the soil and pipe network it passes through.  The most common ions found in tap water are sodium, calcium, magnesium, and metal ions that have leached into the water from water pipes.

Deionized water has no such ions – only water ions.  We can define deionized water as water that has had all non-water ions removed.

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• Top Reverse Osmosis Under Sink Water Filters – over here
• Pros & Cons of Reverse Osmosis Water – over here
• What Minerals Are in Water? – over here
• Are Alkaline Water Machines Dangerous? – over here

 

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