What is an Alkaline Water Filter?

Does your tap water taste a little … off? Maybe it has a slight chlorine tang, or it leaves behind stubborn watermarks on your glassware. The issue might not just be about purity but also pH balance. This is where alkaline water filters come in, not only purifying your water but also enhancing it by raising its pH and reintroducing essential minerals. But how do alkaline water filters work, and what makes alkaline water different from regular water? 

Let’s explore the science behind these filters and why so many people are making the switch.

What is Alkaline Water?

If you’ve ever had water that tasted slightly metallic or overly chlorinated, you’ve already experienced how different water sources can vary. But what about alkaline water—what makes it different?

The key factor is pH level, which measures how acidic or alkaline a substance is on a scale of 0 to 14. Regular tap water typically has a pH of around 7, which is neutral. Alkaline water, on the other hand, has a higher pH level, usually between 8 and 9.5, making it less acidic.

But why does this matter? Some believe that alkaline water helps neutralise acid in the body, improve hydration, and even provide antioxidant properties. Others simply prefer the smoother taste compared to acidic or neutral water.

Check out this in-depth guide to learn more about the pH levels of drinking water.

Potential Benefits of Drinking Alkaline Water

Drinking alkaline water may offer a number of advantages, including:

  • Improved hydration: Some research suggests that alkaline water is more easily absorbed by the body, keeping you hydrated for longer.

  • Detoxification: It may help flush out toxins by neutralising acidity in the body.

  • Better taste: Many people find alkaline water to have a cleaner, crisper taste compared to standard tap water.

So what does an alkaline water filter do to achieve this? Let’s break it down.

What Does an Alkaline Water Filter Do?

An alkaline water filter does more than just clean your tap water; it actively enhances it. Unlike standard filters that only remove contaminants, alkaline water filters also adjust the pH balance, meaning you get water that’s both clean and optimally alkaline. They work by:

  • Filtering out contaminants like chlorine, heavy metals, bacteria, and pesticides.

  • Reintroducing essential minerals such as calcium, magnesium, and potassium, which contribute to the water’s alkalinity.

  • Adding back minerals and using ionisation techniques, which raises the water’s pH level to an optimal range.

How Do Alkaline Water Filters Work?

An alkaline water filter doesn’t just clean your tap water; it transforms it. The process begins with pre-filtration, stripping away sediment, chlorine, and other unwanted impurities. Next comes ionisation and electrolysis, where the water’s pH is adjusted to reduce acidity, creating a smoother, more balanced taste. Finally, the remineralisation stage restores essential minerals like calcium, potassium, and magnesium.

Not all water filters work the same way. Here’s a quick comparison:

  • Regular Water Filters: Remove contaminants but don’t adjust pH levels.

  • Reverse Osmosis Filters: Provide high-level purification but often strip out beneficial minerals, requiring additional remineralisation.

  • Alkaline Water Filters: Filter out impurities while also enhancing pH and adding minerals, making them a great choice for those who want clean, great-tasting water.

Do Alkaline Water Filters Remove Fluoride?

Fluoride is added to tap water in many regions to help prevent tooth decay. However, some people prefer to reduce their fluoride intake due to concerns about potential health risks.

So, do alkaline water filters remove fluoride? Not all, but some models include fluoride filtration technology. If fluoride removal is a priority for you, you should check whether the specific filter you’re considering has fluoride-reducing capabilities.

How to Install an Alkaline Water Filter

Wondering how to install an alkaline water filter? Most models are designed for easy home installation. Here’s a brief overview:

  1. Turn off the water supply before installation.

  2. Connect the filter to the cold water line under your sink.

  3. Secure the faucet for dispensing alkaline water.

  4. Once installed, run water through the system to check for leaks and ensure it’s working correctly.

While it’s possible to install an alkaline water filter yourself, a professional technician can ensure a secure and seamless installation, especially for under-sink models.

How Often Do You Need to Change the Filter?

Like all water filters, alkaline filters need regular maintenance to remain effective. The general recommendation is to replace the filter every 6 to 12 months, but exactly how often to change an alkaline water filter depends on a few factors:

  • Household size: Larger households will go through more water, meaning the filter may need to be replaced sooner.

  • Water quality: If your tap water has high levels of contaminants, the filter will wear out faster.

  • Usage: The more often you use the filter, the quicker it will reach its limit.

To make sure your filter continues to provide clean, great-tasting alkaline water, regular maintenance is important. Learn more about maintaining your home water filter.

Make the Switch to Cleaner, Healthier Water

We all know water is essential, but the quality of your water matters just as much as the quantity you drink. With an alkaline water filter, you’re not just filtering out impurities; you’re balancing acidity and replenishing your body with essential minerals. 

So, whether you're looking for better-tasting water, improved hydration, or a cleaner way to fuel your body, an alkaline water filter can make a noticeable difference. Find the right alkaline water filter for your home at AquaSafe, or get in touch with us for expert guidance.