Water ionizers simply are devices that introduce ions to the water to alter its properties. An ionizer can change the pH of the water by adding ions that will increase the concentration of hydrogen or hydroxide ions in the water. Changing the chemical nature of H2O to some extent can be achieved through a number of processes. Manufacturers of aqua ionizers claim, though, that water can be rendered acidic or basic through electrolysis, a process that dissociates the H+ and OH- ions, which make up an H2O molecule. According to the proponents of water ionizers, electrolysis results in the generation of acidic water and alkaline water. The latter is tagged as healthy water, which is ideal for drinking.
A typical liquid ionizing apparatus can be connected directly to the faucet, and liquid coming from it is processed in two ways. The first process removes unwanted impurities. These impurities include chlorine, sediments, odors, bacteria, and organic waste. Then, the liquid undergoes electrolysis, and the resulting two types of H2O are streamed into different tubes. Some aqua ionizers work slightly differently by allowing you to produce alkaline or acidic liquid in separate occasions.
There are water ionizers that can produce liquid with varying pH levels. The different types of aqua produced can be used in different ways, according to manufacturers. For instance, strong acidic and alkaline water can be used for cleaning purposes. Acidic water is good for skin care applications. Neutral water is good for drinking and for laboratory purposes. However, alkaline water is said to be better than neutral water for human consumption, although some scientists doubt it.
A water ionizer operates through the use of electricity. The passage of electricity through the platinum-coated titanium electrodes causes the dissociation of water molecules. Alkaline water is generated at the negative electrode, where positive metal ions gather to reduce water, leaving OH- ions free. Hence, alkaline water actually has some metallic ions present at trace quantities. These ions are calcium, magnesium, and potassium. Their inherent positive charges shall keep the negatively charged hydroxide ions from combining with hydrogen ions to form H2O molecules again.
On the other hand, the positive electrode produces acidic water with the presence of negatively charged ions (sulfides, bicarbonates, and chlorides). The resulting water will have a greater concentration of hydrogen ions (H+), making it acidic.
The rate at which an ionizing machine produces alkaline or acidic water depends on its technology. Modern machines can make a glass of alkaline water in seconds. But these machines are quite expensive and not everyone can afford them. Moreover, they have to be properly installed. If you want to properly connect a water ionizer directly to the main pipe, you would need a plumber, unless you have reliable plumbing skills.
Not everyone buys water ionizers, though, for the reason previously stated. First, they are expensive. Another thing is that many people are skeptic about the true benefits of ionizers. Using one adds up to your electric bill. If you are not ready for an added expenditure, you probably would still be drinking water from your faucet or buying bottled alkaline water.