Ionized Water Systems
While any ionized water system is designed to create alkaline water and also raise the ORP of your drinking water, some are more effective than others. Yet, many other factors come into play, and the quality and construction of the unit itself is only one among many. How so?
For example, how fast water flows over the plates can drastically affect the ORP rating. Referred to as the flow rate, running your tap at full speed will make any ionized water system less effective, as the water is in contact with the ionizing plates for less time - allowing it to impact it to a lesser extent (1). Therefore, setting the faucet to a slower setting will produce higher ORP water and is recommended.
A second factor which affects the ability of any ionized water system to produce high ORP water, is the mineral content of the water in question. Tap water that has high mineral content is often referred to as “hard water”, whereas water with low mineral content is termed “soft water.” Where you live can determine whether your tap water is hard or soft, with higher mineral content making higher ORP water possible. How does this work?
Mineral content is the pathway through which ionization happens, by conducting the electric charge being produced by the plates (2). For this reason, more mineral content means more conduction and a higher ORP in the end.
While the above factors are important, with all else being equal, some ionized water system options are better than others. Continue onto the next page - to learn the three things you should look for before buying.
SOURCES:
(1)
http://www.waterionizer.org/understanding-ph-and-orp-in-alkaline-water.html
http://healthiswealthmaui.com/water-ph-and-orp.htm
(2)
Ibid.
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