How to Choose An Ionized Alkaline Water Machine - Counter Top or Under Sink

Ionized water has nutrients, minerals and antioxidants.

When water is exposed to mild electrolysis, the result is ionized water with more oxygen and alkaline minerals than normal municipal tap water. Commercial ionization machines treat and filter tap water, adding a mass of electrons to the water's molecular makeup. Proponents of ionized water machines claim the ionization affects the level of oxidation in human body cells. Manufacturers also suggest the process is beneficial when fighting disease. When buying an ionization machine for your home, options include counter top and under-the-sink versions. Both versions work the same, but the under-the-sink models require installation.

Instructions

1. Determine which type of ionized water machine best suits your needs and fits with the current alignment of your kitchen. Kitchen counter models are the size of modern coffeemakers and take up a great deal of counter top real estate.

2. Factor the cost of the ionization machine in your decision process. If you are budget conscious, then a basic below-the-sink filtration model will save you considerable money in the short term. Basic below-the-sink machines use replaceable filter cartridges and generally cost about half the price of a professional-grade counter top model.

3. Determine if you will need professional installation. Under-the-sink models require extensive installation because they tie directly into the plumbing. Many under-the-sink models require an expensive faucet conversion kit and other plumbing-related hardware.

4. Check to see if you have the proper electrical setup for an under-the-sink model. Under-the-sink models require a source of electricity to work. In many homes, the electrical outlet near the sink powers the garbage disposal system. If you have a disposal system in place, you might need to have separate electrical wiring installed to power the ionization machine.

Tips & Warnings

• If your on a tight budget and choose a counter top system, find one that can be converted to an under sink unit later. You'll be glad you did!

• Have someone with real experience do the installation, don't let someone who signed up on a multi-level marketing program do the work (leaks can cost thousands).

• The next articles in this series will cover the plates and plate technologies, power supplies, electronics and filtration methods.

References

• Alka Viva:Benefits of Alkaline, Ionized Water;Dr. Hidemitsu Hayashi, M.D,
• Under The Counter Water Ionizers -- Things You Should Know
• Water Ionizer Machine Reviews Comparison Chart