Best Water Ionizer & Alkaline Water Machine 2023: Top Picks Reviewed

Want to enjoy the benefits of alkaline ionized water at home without buying expensive bottled water?

You’ve come to the right place.

In this in-depth buying guide, we review the best water ionizers you can buy online.  

We also explain everything you need to know about home water ionizers and alkaline water machines, including how they work, their health benefits and how to install one.

So let's dive in!       

Best Water Ionizers

Why You Need A Water Ionizer

You’ve probably heard about ionized alkaline water. Maybe you’ve even seen it sold as bottled water at the store.

What exactly is it?

Here is a simple explanation.

‘Ionized’ means that it contains mineral ions. Water in nature is always ionized because it contains dissolved minerals such as magnesium and calcium.

Ionized water can be acidic or alkaline. Mineral ions like magnesium make water alkaline whole carbonate ions that result from carbon dioxide dissolving in water make water acidic.

A water ionizer uses a process called electrolysis to produce both alkaline and acidic ionized water. I’ll explain shortly how exactly it works.

The alkaline water is the one that’s beneficial for you. It has a higher pH than normal tap water (usually 8 or higher), has higher alkalinity and negative Oxidation Reduction Potential or ORP.

The PH part is not that important. What you want to focus on when buying a water ionizer is the alkalinity.

This refers to its ability to neutralize acid.

High pH water does not necessarily have high alkalinity. For water to be sufficiently alkaline, it must have alkaline minerals (which are already present in natural water) and a negative ORP.

ORP (Oxidation Reduction Potential) is a measure of the antioxidant strength of alkaline water.

Antioxidants prevent oxidation in the body, which has all sorts of health benefits from boosting the immune system to anti-aging effects.

The lower or more negative the ORP of alkaline water, the better. It means the water has higher antioxidant potential.

Ionized alkaline water does two things in your body: it neutralizes stomach acid (which helps with conditions like acid reflux) and it prevents oxidation.

How a Water Ionizer Works

Why Drink Alkaline Ionized Water?

The (academic) jury is still out on exactly how alkaline ionized water interacts with your body.

But a few studies and plenty of anecdotal evidence suggest that alkaline ionized water is, in fact, good for you.

One study found that drinking alkaline ionized water for several weeks improved the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome.  

Another found that it is helps prevent reflux by denaturing pepsin, which is the main cause of reflux.

Yet another study in 2016 shows that drinking ionized alkaline water after exercise lowers blood viscosity, spreading oxygen around your body quicker and more efficiently (Caveat: this study was funded by Essentia, a maker of alkaline water).

There are additional studies that suggest drinking ionized alkaline water is therapeutic for people with diabetes, high blood pressure and high cholesterol.    

Most of these studies are small, and that’s why most experts will not say definitively whether this type of water is good for you.

But many people who rely on alkaline ionized water do report numerous benefits. According to them, it lowers blood pressure, helps with weight loss, improves skin quality, prevents kidney stones and reduces reflux.

The best part about ionized water is that it is completely safe. As long as you know the source of the water and it goes through a filter, drink away.

Ionized Water vs. Bottled Water 

I don’t recommend buying bottled alkaline ionized water for two reasons.

One, it has fewer benefits than freshly produced water from an ionizer. The main reason for this is that the ORP value doesn’t keep.

If water is left sitting for more than a few days, its ionization (and thus ORP) reduces by more than half.

So bottled water will not have the same antioxidant benefits as water fresh out of an ionizer.

Two, cost.

Normal bottled water is expensive over time. Alkaline ionized bottled water is even more expensive and the costs add up quickly for a large family.

In fact, the money you spend on bottled water over 1-2 years could easily cover the cost of a good quality water ionizer.

By investing in a water ionizer, you are saving money while also giving your family convenient access to healthy water.

4 Types of Water Ionizers Compared

Electric Water Ionizers 

These are the most common types of water ionizers. They are also the best at creating healthy and beneficial alkaline ionized water.

That’s because they produce more molecular hydrogen than other types of ionizers.

Molecular hydrogen is one of the most effective antioxidants.

As I explained, electric water ionizers use electrolysis to create ionized alkaline water (as well as ionized acidic water).

Charged plates separate water into alkaline and acidic streams.

Hydrogen Water Machines

Another way to get molecular hydrogen into your drinking water is by using a hydrogen water machine.

It’s cheaper than water ionizers though most do not add as much molecular hydrogen. But they still add enough to confer the health benefits of antioxidant water.

Note : that hydrogen water machines do not produce alkaline water. They simply add hydrogen to water.

So you don’t get two streams of acidic and alkaline water like in a water ionizer. Just one output of hydrogen water.

Here are a few other key differences between hydrogen water machines and electric water ionizers.

Hydrogen Gas Generators 

These units generate pure molecular hydrogen. The gas is pumped through a tube and you breath it in.

You can also use it to enrich drinking water with hydrogen, turning it into a potent antioxidant.

You do this by inserting the output tube into a bottle or jar of water. You can also enrich any other liquid other than water including juices, soups and foot soak solutions.

Non-Electric/Natural Water Ionizers

These types of ionizers are ideal if you are looking for a cheaper alternative to electric water ionizers.

They use filters that add minerals to water to ionize it and increase its alkalinity.

While you’ll save quite a bit of money opting for a natural water ionizer, you won’t get the same results as you would from an electric ionizer.

Water from an electric ionizer has a higher concentration of molecular hydrogen and beneficial mineral ions, making it generally healthier for you.

Another downside of a non-electric unit is that it needs recharge time, which ranges between 30 and 60 minutes. This is inconvenient for a family that needs constant supply of alkaline ionized water.

The only time a natural water ionizer is the best option is when you are on the road. That’s because you get this ionizer in form of a pitcher.

This provides easy access to ionized water when you are camping, staying in a hotel or going on a road trip.

Water Ionizer & Alkaline Machine Reviews

1. Most Powerful:  Tyent UCE-11

If you want the best of the bunch and don’t mind paying more for it, the Tyent UCE-11 water ionizer is for you.

Starting at over $2,000, the Tyent UCE-11 is expensive, but its performance, versatility and features are unmatched.

This water ionizer uses 11 large plates that deliver ORP levels as low as -1050 and a pH range between 2pH and 12pH.

Two large filters remove most of the contaminants from the water, ensuring you get safe and healthy ionized water.

The UCE-11 ionizer also comes with a nifty touch screen control through which you can access all the settings.

You can choose among 3 alkaline levels, 3 acidic levels and neutral-pH water (perfect for baby food or taking medicine).

The unit installs under the sink. Installation is straightforward, you can easily do it yourself.  

Overall, this is one of the best water ionizers sold today.

Our only complaint is the price tag. The replacement filter cartridges are not cheap either.

Best Features

1. 11-Plate System

The number of plates in an ionizer is an indicator of its efficiency and performance. The more the plates the faster the system discharges water.

More plates also drive a more efficient electrolysis process, resulting in lower OKR water with extra-high levels of molecular hydrogen.

With a plate count of 11, the Tycent UCE-11 has one of the highest number of plates, making it one of the most powerful water ionizers in the market.

2. 750 Watts of Power

The Tyent UCE-11 doesn’t just top the list when it comes to the number of plates; it’s also one of the highest-powered water ionizers.

At a max wattage of 750W, the system delivers a powerful electrical current to the electrodes. This increases operation efficiency and produces higher quality ionized water.

Something else that’s good to know: the Tycent UCE-11 uses an SMPS power supply system. It stands for switched-mode power supply.

It’s a bit of a technical topic (you can read more about it here).

All you need to know is that it delivers higher efficiency, more consistent power output and increased longevity for the surrounding components.

3. Wide pH Range with Multiple Levels of Acidity and Alkalinity 

Issues & Limitations

1. Installation

Like any under sink water system, be it an RO system or a water filter, the Tyent UCE-11 takes time to install.

But you can definitely tackle installation without hiring a pro.  Takes about 1-2 hours.

Luckily, the manual has detailed instructions and Tyent provides a few helpful videos on their website.

2. Price

Other than installation, the high price tag and the pricey cartridge replacements are the only issues with this unit.

Avoid this one if : you are looking for a budget water ionizer.

The Bottom Line

The Tyent UCE-11 water ionizer is perfect for families and offices looking for the absolute best water ionizer for drinking water - and don’t mind paying more to get it.

Read Our Review

2. Top Rated:  Life Ionizers MXL-9 

The MXL-9 is a slightly cheaper alternative to the Tyent UCE-11.

It doesn’t have as many features or as much tech as the Tyent but it offers the same powerful water ionizing performance.

It also provides a wide selection of options including 8 different types of water.

What we love most about the MXL-9 is that it can be installed undercounter or as a countertop water ionizer – whichever works best for you particular situation.

Another unique feature is the integrated UV sterilizer that kills bacteria and germs in your water.   

As with the Tyent system, our main issue is the cost. The replacement filters are not pricey too.

But then again, you are not going to get a better water ionizer for less money.

Best Features 

1. Convertible

Most water ionizers can only be installed under the counter. While that works fine for most homes, there are cases where it’s not possible.

The MXL-9 can be installed undercounter or on the counter top, letting you choose what works best for your kitchen.

2. High Performance 9-Plate System

3. Eight Different Water Options 

Through the easy to use control panel, you can select up to 8 different types of water depending on your needs.

4 levels of alkaline water: Ideal for drinking and removing stains from fabric and upholstery.

3 levels of acidic water: Great for washing the skin, sterilizing surfaces and cleaning fruits and veggies.

Neutral pH water: Purified neutral water that is ideal for baby food, cooking and taking medicine.

4. Dual Filters Plus UV Sterilization

To make sure the water is clean and safe for your family the MXL-9 system passes water through two filter systems before it is ionized.

1. A scale filter for hard water and an activated carbon filter for chlorine and chemicals.
2. A vitamin C ceramic filter to remove chlorine and chloramine, an activated carbon filter to remove residual chlorine and a KDF filter to remove heavy metals and VOCs.

Each filter has its own remaining life indicator. When either filter’s lifespan is up, the unit stops working until you replace it.

The filters are super easy to replace using a 1-click, no-tool process.

In addition to the two filters, there is a built-in UV sterilization system that kills the harmful microorganisms – bacteria, viruses and cysts – which pass through the other filters untouched.

Issues & Limitations 

1. High Price

The MXL-9 is one of the more expensive water ionizers in the market. Don’t forget to also factor in the cost of the replacement filters, which are pricey.

You’ll need to replace each filter about once a year.

But as I mentioned, you will not find a better unit for less money. The extra features and high performance water ionization are completely worth it.

Avoid this one if: You are looking for a budget water ionizer.

The Bottom Line 

The MXL-9 water ionizer is perfect for anyone looking for a high-performance water ionizer with proven reliability. Also ideal for those who would like a system they can install under counter or on the counter.

Read Our Review

3. Best Value:  Air Water Life Aqua Ionizer Deluxe 9.0

If you want the performance of a high-end water ionizer without the high price, I recommend getting the Air Water Life ionizer.

It costs about half the price of high-end systems but still provides an impressive selection of features and options.

These include 7 water settings, a built-in activated carbon filter and a control touchpad among others.

Of course, the Deluxe 9.0 lacks some of the bells and whistles found in pricier water ionizers. But when it comes to what matters most, water ionization, it’s just as good.

The 9-plate system can produce seven different types of water with a pH ranging from 3.0 to 11.5. For the alkaline water, ORP levels can be as low as -860 to ensure maximum antioxidant potential.  

Best Features

1. 9-Plate System

Despite being cheaper, the Deluxe 9.0 has the same number of plates as the MXL-9 water ionizer. That means you get the same high quality ionized water but for much less money.

The 9 plates, which are made from titanium and coated with platinum, deliver ionized water with pH between 3 and 11.5.

For maximum health benefits, the lowest ORP level for the alkaline water is -860. The exact ORP will depend on the water pH you’ve selected as well as the water source.

Good to know: These plates are self-cleaning, which increases their lifespan and maintains efficiency during ionization.

2. Seven Water Settings 

3. Activated Carbon Filter 

The integrated activated carbon filter is enough to get the worst of impurities out of the water. It also improves taste and smell by removing chlorine and other chemicals.

The filter is good for 4,000 liters or around a thousand gallons. That’s about one year of use for an average family.

You’ll get a filter replacement reminder when the current filter’s life is up.

Note: This ionizer does not remove bacteria and germs or TDS (total dissolved solids). So make sure your water is free of harmful microorganisms. This system is also not ideal for well water (unless you have installed a whole house well water filter that removes TDS).   

4. Easy to Use Touchpad

The control panel is easy to use. It consists of a responsive touch pad and an LCD display.

The display shows current settings such as type of water being dispensed. It’s also where you will monitor your filter life.

5. Convertible 

This is a countertop water ionizer. But if you’d prefer to install it under your counter, it’s possible. You just need to purchase a separate undercounter installation kit.

Issues and Limitations 

1. Single Filter

The main limitation of the Deluxe 9.0 is the filtration system. With only one filter, it doesn’t do as good a job as other more expensive water ionizers.

Some customers complained that their water still has a slight smell and odor even after going through the water ionizer.

2. No UV Sterilization

The Deluxe 9.0 doesn’t have a way to kill harmful microorganisms. Something like the UV lamp in the MXL-9 would have been a great addition (though it may have made it more expensive).

But as long as you use potable water whose source you know (ideally chlorinated city water), you should be okay.

Avoid this one if: You use well water or you are concerned that your water contains harmful bacteria and germs. If you use well water and would still like to install this unit, I strongly recommend you first install a whole house well water filter.

The Bottom Line

The Deluxe 9.0 is perfect for families looking for high performance water ionizer that’s significantly less expensive than higher-end brands like Tyent and Life Ionizers.

Read Our Review

4. Budget Pick:  Aqua Ionizer Deluxe 5.0

Water ionizers are generally expensive.

Even a 'best value' pick like the Aqua Ionizer Deluxe 9.0 still costs well over $1,000.

Luckily, you are not out of options if you are looking for a pocket-friendly system.

Aqua Ionizer also makes a smaller unit called the Deluxe 5.0 which costs less than $600 and doesn’t skimp on that many features.

You still get 7 water settings, an integrated active carbon filter and self-cleaning plates.

That said, there are only 5 plates, the pH range is more limited, minimum ORP level is higher and the filter has a shorter lifespan.

But if you are looking for a water ionizer for a small family and don’t need acidic water, then the Deluxe 5.0 is a great choice.

Best Features

1. 5-Plate System 

The Deluxe 5.0 has four plates less than the Deluxe 9.0. This makes a big difference in terms of ionization performance.

The Deluxe 5.0 has a more limited pH range. It starts at 5pH while most other ionizers can produce water as low as 2 or 3pH.

The water also has slightly lower ORP levels. The minimum attainable ORP is -600.

But this is to be expected from a budget system like this one. If anything, it’s more than I expected for the price.

You still get alkaline water (the system goes to 11pH like many others) and the ORP levels are low enough to provide antioxidant benefits.  

2. Seven Water Settings

You can select from 4 different levels of alkaline water, 2 levels of acidic water and neutral pH purified water.

The Deluxe 5.0 doesn’t use the same intuitive labels used in the newer Deluxe 9.0. Instead, it indicates that the alkaline water is good for wellness while the acidic water is good for cosmetic use.

I think it’s still better than using numbered levels.

3. Integrated Carbon Filter

The activated carbon filter removes a wide range of impurities from water before it is ionized. It also removes chlorine and other chemicals that give water an unpleasant smell and taste.

The 4,000-liter (about 1,000 gallons) filter is good for up to one year before you need to replace it.

Note: that the filter is not ideal for well water or water containing harmful microorganisms. Only use it with chlorinated city water.

If you have well water, consider installing a whole house well water filter first to remove total dissolved solids.

4. Easy to Use Control Panel

The control panel is well laid out with buttons for different water settings, a manual wash button and a small display indicating current system status.

Issues and Limitations 

1. Limited pH Range

The limited pH range means the ionizer does not produce strong acidic water, which is the best for cleaning and disinfection.

But this is not a big deal if you are only interested in alkaline water. The Deluxe 5.0 can go up to pH 11 like most other water ionizers.

2. Higher ORP Levels

ORP levels are higher than in pricier ionizers (-600 compared to -800 or lower for other systems) but still low enough to provide plenty of antioxidant benefits.

Avoid if: You want a water ionizer that produces strong acidic water. Also not ideal for homes that receive well water (unless you’ve installed a whole house well water filter).

The Bottom Line 

The Deluxe 5.0 is perfect for: Anyone looking for a budget water ionizer. 

Read Our Review

5. Bawell 1195 Premier Alkaline Water Ionizer

This is another good choice if you are looking for a mid-range ($1,000-2,000) water ionizer.

The Bawell 1195 uses 5 plates that produce water with pH 3.2 to pH 10.0 and ORP levels between -420 and +600. The pH range is split into 6 different types of water: 3 alkaline, 2 acidic and one neutral.

Best Features 

1. 5-plate System 

Most water ionizers at this price range have at least 7 plates. It’s disappointing to see that the 1195 has only five.  That said, it still generates ionized water.

The plates are titanium and coated in platinum. They produce water with pH ranging from 3.2 to 10.0.

This is a more limited range than other ionizers in this price range, as most produce water with pH 3 to 11. But the range is broad enough to provide 6 levels of water pH.

2. Six Water Options

There are three levels of alkaline water, 2 levels of acidic water and 1 level of filtered water. As with other features, the 1195 falls short compared to other ionizers in the same price range.

Most provide at least 7 water options.

But six is good enough for most people’s needs. 

3. Intuitive Control Panel

The water settings are laid out in a neat column starting with level 3 alkaline water. There are labels that conveniently guide you on how to use each type of water.

The first three alkaline levels are all labelled as ‘drinking water’. Filtered water has the label ‘medicine’ and the two acidic levels are labelled simply as ‘weak’ and ‘strong’.

An indicator light next to each label lights up showing which type of water you are currently using.

Below the water options is filter indicator that lights up when the current filter has reached the end of its life. Press the ‘Reset’ button next to the indicator when you put in a new filter.

4. Integrated Filter  

The exact filter replacement period varies from household to household depending on water consumption and level of impurities in water.

But for most families, the 1,585-gallon filter lasts about one year.

The filter removes sediment, chemicals, heavy metals and chlorine from water.

But it does not kill bacteria and germs nor does it remove dissolved solids like iron and magnesium common in well water.  

5. Easy Countertop Installation    

This is a countertop-only water ionizer. Unlike some of the other systems we have reviewed, you cannot install it under the sink.

So if you are looking for an under sink water ionizer, this is not it.

It’s easy to install. You just need to hook it up to your faucet.

Unlike most countertop water treatment units that work only with standard faucets, the 1195 ionizer can connect to pull out or sprayer faucets as well using the included universal adaptor.

6. Option To Add Minerals and Vitamins 

This is a unique feature to this unit.

Inside the ionizer there is a small compartment where you can put minerals and vitamins that you want to add to your water. They can be in solid or liquid form.

Note: that the minerals and vitamins themselves are not included.  

Issues and Limitations

1. Performance

For the price, we expected the 1195 water ionizer to have at least 7 plates. This would have likely lowered the ORP levels below the currently attainable -420.

2. Fewer Water Levels

It would also have been nice to have one or two more water levels beyond the 6 that are available.

Avoid this one if: You are looking for a low budget or a high-end system. The 1195 falls somewhere in the middle.

The Bottom Line

The Bawell 1195 ionizer is perfect for: Anyone looking for a good quality water ionizer that costs less than $2,000.

Read Our Review

6. Best Natural Water Ionizer: 

Pure Hydration Alkaline Antioxidant Water Ionizer

Best Features

1. High Performance 7-Plate System 

The 2195 uses two more plates than the 1195. That has a significant impact on performance.

It results in a wider pH range between 2.0 and 12.0 (though the system is programmed to stay between 3.0pH and 11.5pH) and lower ORP levels of up to -800.

This is pretty great considering it costs about half the price of high-end water ionizers.

2. 8 Water Options 

The 8 water levels are intuitively labelled to make it easier to select the right one. Instead of levels 1, 2 and so on, you get the following:

3. Easy to Use Control Panel 

The control panel is one of my favorite features in this water ionizer. It’s easy to use and everything is laid out so well.

It also provides extra information that other ionizers don’t show.

For instance, for each water level you can see the exact pH and ORP. That’s super helpful.

The screen also shows the remaining life for each of the two filters.  

4. Dual Filtration

Unlike the 1195, the new Platinum 2195 uses two filters to make your water safer.

Each filter lasts about a year or 1,320 gallons. You can track how much life is remaining on the touchscreen.

When the filters are about to approach their gallon capacity, you’ll get a voice reminder.

5. Easy DIY Installation

The 2195 easily connects to your existing faucets. It works with any faucet that has a removable aerator including sprayer and pull out faucets.

You cannot install the ionizer under the sink but you can connect it directly to the cold water line. You’d have to make a hole in the sink and run a hose through it to the ionizer.

If you space on the counter to place the ionizer, you can also hang it on the wall using the built-in wall mount. But do not put it under the sink.

Issues and Limitations 

No Under Sink Option

The only gripe we have with the 2195 water ionizer is that you cannot put it under the sink. The manufacturer is adamant about it.

Even if you connect it to the cold water line, you still have to place it on the counter or mount it on the wall.

Avoid this one if: You are looking for a budget water ionizer. Also not ideal if you want an under counter unit.  

The Bottom Line  

The Bawell 2195 Platinum water ionizer is perfect for: Anyone looking for a high performance water ionizer that costs less than $2,000. 

Read Our Review

How We Evaluate & Compare Water Ionizers

Here are the main factors we consider when evaluating and comparing water ionizers. The form the basis of our 5-star ratings.

Number and Type of Plates 

Generally, an ionizer with more plates performs better than one with fewer plates. That’s because there is a larger surface area and more power for the electrolysis process.

This results in ionized water with a wider pH range, more molecular hydrogen and lower ORP values.

We rate ionizers with more plates higher.

As for the type of plates, we only consider platinum-coated titanium plates. These are the only types of plates that are proven to provide the best ionization.

pH Range 

Highly rated water ionizers have a wider pH range; ideally a minimum of 2-3pH and a maximum of 10-11pH.

A wide range means the system can produce acidic water (great for cleaning and sterilization) and alkaline water (great for drinking).

Minimum ORP 

The ORP correlates to the water’s antioxidant potential. The more negative it is, the better.

Our ratings are partly based on the lowest ORP a water ionizer can achieve. The best usually get to -800 or lower.

Less pricey models achieve ORP values of -400 to -600.

Water (Alkalinity) Options 

Having versatile water settings allows you to take full advantage of an ionizer’s capability.

The most important thing we look for how many types of water you can get. We recommend electric ionizers that provide at least 6 types of water. We rate higher those that can provide up to 8 options.  

Another setting we look for, though it’s not that common, is turbo or power boost. This temporarily maxes out the amount of power delivered to the ionizer to make very acidic or very alkaline water.

Ease of Installation 

We only recommend water ionizers that homeowners can install themselves with just the basic tools. If a system requires a pro to install, the extra cost is not worth it.

We also check whether the water ionizer provides both under-counter and countertop installation. This versatility earns the models extra points.   

Integrated Filter 

This is a must-have. Water ionizers with one filter are okay but we rate higher those with at least two filters. They do a better job removing impurities.  

Other Considerations

Flow rate: The water ionizer should have a decent flow rate to make it easier to use but not too fast that it compromises filtration performance.

Plate cleaning: Automatic cleaning is the best. It keeps the system at peak performance.

Control panel: We check how easy it is to navigate the control panel and select different options. Features like voice prompts and energy saver/eco mode result in a higher rating.

SMPS power supply: Water ionizers with this type of power supply have higher ratings. They use less energy but have higher performance.

Extra features: We look for bonus features like flood alarm, ORP and pH readings on the screen, silent mode/mute button and filter life indicator.  

How To Select The Right Water Ionizer For Your Home or Office

We recommend that you consider the same factors we did when selecting the top picks. Here are the ones that matter most.

1. Number of plates 

The minimum number of plates you should consider is 5. If you have the budget, invest in a premium system with 7-11 plates. You’ll get a better pH range and water with higher antioxidant potential.

2. Type of plates 

Only go for platinum-coated titanium plates. These are the best and the only acceptable ones for effective water ionization.

3. Self-Cleaning Features

Look for a water ionizer with a self-cleaning feature. This prevents mineral and bacteria buildup on the plates, which could lower performance.

4. ORP and pH range

Lower ORP values are better. The best water ionizers produce water with an ORP of at least -600. As for pH range, look for a system that can produce acidic water of at least 2-3pH and alkaline water of at least 10pH.

5. Integrated Carbon Filter

These are absolutely essential. They clean up the water, ensuring you are drinking safe water. They also eliminate unpleasant tastes/odors and ensure the system is working at its best.

6. Water Settings 

Unless you want to buy a natural water ionizer (which has only one water setting), look for an electric ionizer that provides 6-8 water options. These options should include neutral pH filtered water in addition to acidic and alkaline water.

7. Countertop vs. Undercounter Installation 

Look for the one that is right for your situation. Some water ionizers allow for both types of installation using a conversion kit. Either way, make sure the system is easy to install and that you don’t have to hire a pro.

8. Price 

The amount of money you are willing to spend will determine what kind of features and ionizing power you can get.

At the higher end ($2,000+), brands like Tyent provide powerful ionization with plenty of features. 

Mid-range ($1,000-$2,000) brands have fewer plates and slightly higher ORP values. In the budget range (under $1,00), you’ll find natural ionizers and low-powered electric ionizers.

How To Install a Water Ionizer

Here are some general tips on water ionizer installation. Check your manual for instructions regarding your particular model.

Check (ideally before ordering) whether it is a countertop or undercounter model. Countertop models have an outlet hose hanging from the side.

Most water ionizers are designed for easy countertop installation though some can be converted into undercounter units. These instructions are for countertop installation.

Care and Maintenance

Most water ionizers are self-cleaning. Every now and then, they reverse the polarity of the plates to release built-up minerals and salts.

But most still recommend a manual cleaning every few months or once a year using citric acid or white vinegar.

Even if yours doesn’t call for a manual wash, you may still need to do it if you live in a hard water area to avoid too much calcium build up.

Each water ionizer has a different manual cleaning process. Check your manual for the right instructions.

You also need to regularly replace the filters in your water ionizer. How often depends on their capacity. Most filters last for about one year but check your manual for the right replacement period.

Frequently Asked Questions About Water Ionizers

Does a water ionizer remove fluoride? 

Yes it does. Fluoride is removed in the acidic water that drains into your sink.

Electric ionizers can remove around 85% of fluoride in your water. Some models can remove up to 99% using a combination of electrolysis and filtration.

Is ionized water alkaline? 

An electric water ionizer produces both acidic and alkaline ionized water, which are split into two different streams in most models.

Does ionized water kill bacteria? 

No it does not. That’s why it is essential that you only use biologically safe water (treated city water is the best) with a water ionizer.

Also make sure the water ionizer you are using has built-in filters to remove contaminants.

Can ionized water be harmful?

Yes, if it is too acidic or too alkaline. Avoid drinking water at both pH extremes.  

Generally, you should only drink water with a pH between 7 and 9.5-10 pH.

How do I start drinking alkaline water? 

Start slow. Do not begin at the highest level. Otherwise, your body will react with some unpleasant symptoms.

Start with the lowest level available in your unit (7-8pH) and stay there for a few weeks before moving to the next alkaline level.

Can I store alkaline ionized water? 

Most bottles do not preserve alkaline water properly. Within no time, the water loses its beneficial ORP and pH properties.

If you have to store alkaline ionized water use vacuum-sealed stainless steel bottles. These keep out air, thus preserving the water’s pH and ORP.

Alternatively use mason jars. Fill the jar to the brim to make sure there’s no air inside then seal carefully with the lid.

Can I use ionized water for cleaning? 

Acidic ionized water is great for disinfecting and sterilizing surfaces such as the kitchen counter and the toilet seat.

Alkaline ionized water is effective at removing stains from fabric and upholstery.

Is ionized water safe for my skin? 

Yes, you can use acidic ionized water (3-4 pH) to cleanse your skin and hair. It will restore your skin’s natural balanced pH and prevent problems like acne.

How To Get The Best Deal on a Water Ionizer

For one, shop online rather than going to a store. Prices online tend to be lower than in brick and mortar stores.

You’ll also get a wider variety of options online, including some budget products you might never have found in a local store.  

Keep an eye out for special offers and discounts during various holidays and occasions including Black Friday and Christmas.

Detailed Comparison of The Best Water Ionizers

Disclamer: All links below go to Amazon.com

PRODUCT	DIMENSIONS	PRICE	WEIGHT	COLOR	CERTIFICATIONS
Tyent UCE-11	18.5 x 17.5 x 8 inches	$$$	18 pounds	Silver	ISO9001, ISO14001, KFDA, and CE	Learn More on Amazon
Life Ionizers MXL-9	12.5 x 6.2 x 15 inches	$$	15.15 pounds	Black and Silver	ISO14001, KFDA, and CE	Learn More on Amazon
Aqua Ionizer Deluxe 9.0	16.6 x 12.4 x 8.7 inches	$$	12.05 pounds	Black	ETL	Learn More on Amazon
Aqua Ionizer Deluxe 5.0	16 x 13 x 9 inches	$	10.2 pounds	White	ETL	Learn More on Amazon
Bawell 1195 Premier	7.9 x 4.7 x 12.6 inches	$$	10 pounds	Silver	ISO9001, ISO13485, ROHS, and CE	Learn More on Amazon
Pure Hydration Alkaline Antioxidant	11 x 5.5 x 12.5 inches	$$	13.1 pounds	Black	NSF	Learn More on Amazon
Bawell 2195 Platinum	11.8 x 6.2 x 15.2 inches	$$$	11.02 pounds	Gray	ISO9001, ISO13485, ROHS, and CE	Learn More on Amazon

Learn More

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