How do water ionizers differ in pH range?

Some water ionizers produce wider pH ranges than others, such as super-alkaline (pH 11.5+) or very acidic (pH 2.5-4) levels. These are useful for cleaning but not for drinking. Look for machines that cover the ideal drinking range of about pH 7-10. The extremes of pH (high/low) can only be attained by adding saline, which requires a port and also can harm the water ionizer.

What types of plates do water ionizers use?

Ionizer plates can be solid, mesh, or coated with platinum. Mesh plates provide more surface area for ionization, while advanced electroplating ensures long-lasting performance. The type and quality of plates directly affect the machine’s efficiency and durability.

How important is automatic cleaning?

Though all the water ionizers use automatic cleaning, only a rare few use a special feature, called 'automatic continuous-cleaning' or DARC (Double Automatic Reverse Cleaning). These advanced systems maintain plate efficiency over time, reducing calcium buildup, because the cleaning is continuous. Machines with only intermittent acid-wash cleaning may require more intervention and can affect long-term performance.

What should I look for in filtration quality?

Most water ionizers use high-quality filters, which remove chlorine, heavy metals, fluoride, and microbes. But AlkaViva and Jupiter brands of water ionizers use advanced UltraWater filtration, offering multiple stages for optimal water purity for 249 contaminants up to 99.99%.

Does power supply affect water ionizer performance?

Yes. Switch-mode power supplies are lighter and more energy-efficient, while traditional transformers are robust. Both are reliable, ensuring consistent ionization, especially for machines with multiple plates or advanced features.

Are there differences in molecular hydrogen or ORP performance?

Some ionizers produce higher antioxidant levels (more negative ORP) and more molecular hydrogen, which can enhance health benefits. Side-by-side testing is the only way to reliably compare this feature.

How do installation options vary?

Water ionizers can connect via countertop diverters, under-sink plumbing, or dedicated faucet kits. Consider your kitchen setup, water pressure, and preferred convenience when choosing an installation type.

What are the health benefits of alkaline water?

Alkaline water may improve hydration, reduce acid reflux, and support antioxidant defenses through negative ORP. Many users report enhanced energy and digestion.

Why are alkaline water machines (water ionizers) so expensive?

Electric water ionizers are more expensive because they use pure titanium plates covered with medical-grade platinum (~$1500/oz), include high-quality design, electronics, workmanship, and warranties, and ionize all naturally occurring minerals like calcium, magnesium, and potassium. Non-electric ionizers only ionize magnesium and are less effective. Compared to medical equipment or years of bottled water, they are cost-effective.

Why do water ionizers (alkaline water machines) use platinum-coated electrodes?

Platinum-coated electrodes are essential because platinum is extremely durable and corrosion-resistant. Combined with titanium, electrodes last virtually a lifetime and catalyze the electrolysis process, allowing water to be ionized instantly as it flows through the electrolysis chamber.

Which brand/model of alkaline water machine makes the best water?

Several properly manufactured water ionizers are considered the best if they achieve a wide pH range, produce antioxidants at each alkaline level, and include a good warranty. Other features can be compared in the Water Ionizer Comparison Chart.

Are there any cautions about drinking ionized alkaline water?

Start slowly at the lowest alkaline level, and increase gradually if the water agrees with you. High alkalinity (8.5-10.0) is best for drinking; highest levels can be used for cooking. Add a squeeze of lemon during meals. As with all drinking during meals, don't drink much, just sip, so you don't dilute gastric juices. Use the 'Purified Water' setting for medications. Do not drink acid water from the lower spout.

What is pH and how do I test my body's pH?

PH means 'potential hydrogen' and indicates acidity or alkalinity on a scale of 1-14. 1-6 is acidic, 7 is neutral, 8-14 is alkaline. Saliva should be slightly alkaline (above 7.3) for optimal health. Free urine/saliva pH test kits are available.

Which container, or bottle, is best and what's the best way to store ionized water?

A vacuum stainless steel bottle with a nipple in the lid to push the air bubble out is the best choice. The second best is a mason jar. Proper storage maintains the water's alkalinity and antioxidant properties.

Does it change the pH or ORP of ionized water to mix it with flavor-aids or alcohol?

Yes. Chemically-created drink mixes like Kool-Aid or Crystal Lite or even natural flavor-aids change the pH and may reduce the ORP benefits of ionized water. Alcohol, like scotch, does not reduce pH or ORP.

How does a water ionizer work?

A water ionizer uses electrolysis to separate water into alkaline and acidic streams, increasing pH and adding molecular hydrogen for potential health benefits.

What is a naturally ionizing alkaline water filter?

A naturally ionizing alkaline water filter uses mineral-based filtration, such as magnesium and ceramic materials, to raise the pH of water and provide antioxidants. These filters do not require electricity.

Is alkaline water better than filtered water?

Alkaline water offers added benefits like higher pH and antioxidants, while filtered water simply removes contaminants. The best choice depends on your health goals.

Is platinum in water ionizers safe for the body?

Yes. Platinum used in ionizers is safe, and nano-platinum particles may have beneficial effects on the body according to some research.

Which water ionizer do you suggest?

We offer several high-quality water ionizers. You can compare features and prices on our Water Ionizer Comparison page.

What level of alkaline pH is best for drinking?

Most people prefer drinking water with a pH between 8.0 and 9.5. Start with a lower level and increase gradually based on how your body responds.

What are the highest alkaline levels, like 11 pH, used for?

Alkaline levels around 11 pH are typically used for cooking and cleaning, as they help break down grease and grime effectively.

What is the Purified Water setting used for?

Purified Water is neutral pH water that is only filtered, not ionized. It’s ideal for taking medications or for young children and infants.

Can you drink the acid water that comes from the lower spout?

No. Acidic water is not for drinking. It's intended for external use, such as cleaning, disinfecting, or watering plants.

Can babies or toddlers drink alkaline water?

It's best to use the Purified Water (neutral pH) setting for babies and toddlers. Their bodies are naturally alkaline and may not need additional pH boost.

Why Drink Alkaline Ionized Antioxidant Water?

Alkaline ionized water offers more than just hydration — it supports your body’s natural ability to detox, energize, and stay balanced.

Is alkaline water safe to drink every day?

Yes, it’s safe for most people when consumed in moderation. Start with lower pH water and gradually increase. Avoid drinking anything during meals, small sips here and there is fine, so as not to dilute gastric juices.

Can children drink alkaline water?

Children can drink mildly alkaline water (pH 8–9). For children with specific health conditions, consult your pediatrician first.

How Ionized Water Acts as an Antioxidant

Ionized water provides millions of electrons that neutralize harmful free radicals. Unlike traditional antioxidants, hydrogen evaporates after donating electrons, leaving no negative byproducts.

Is bottled alkaline water the same as ionized water?

No. Bottled water loses molecular hydrogen quickly and does not maintain negative ORP. Electric ionizers provide fresh, high-antioxidant water on demand.

Can alkaline water help with acid reflux or digestion?

Many people report relief from acid reflux and improved digestion with regular alkaline water. Some studies suggest pH-balanced water can neutralize excess stomach acidity.

Does alkaline water help with weight loss?

Alkaline water may support metabolism and fat-burning indirectly by reducing acidity and improving hydration, but it is not a replacement for a healthy diet and exercise.

Do I need to drink a lot to see benefits?

Start with 4–8 cups per day. Consistent use over weeks to months yields the best results.

Can I use alkaline water for pets or cooking?

Mild alkaline water is safe for pets. Using it for cooking can enhance mineral content and flavor, but extremely high pH water is not recommended for daily cooking.

Cost of a Water Ionizer?

Investing in a water ionizer is a smart long-term health choice. Daily cost for a family is roughly $0.50. High-quality ionizers use platinum-coated plates and advanced electronics for durability.

How to Get Alkaline Ionized Water

1. Use a Water Ionizer Machine: Most effective way to get fresh, antioxidant-rich alkaline water at home with customizable pH levels, powerful filtration, and rich molecular hydrogen, 2. Try Natural Ionizing Water Filters & Pitchers: Portable and affordable options, though less hydrogen compared to electric ionizers.

What are the most common contaminants found in tap water?

Tap water can contain chlorine, fluoride, heavy metals like lead or mercury, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). These can be removed using carbon, KDF, and UltraWater filters.

Do water ionizers filter water?

Yes. Water ionizers include internal filters, but for complete protection from fluoride and heavy metals, dual filtration or compound filters are recommended.

What is the best filter for fluoride removal?

Specialized fluoride filters, such as the Fluoride Shield, use advanced media, such as activated alumina, to attract and remove fluoride ions from drinking water.

How can I know which filter I need for my home water?

Check your local water quality report and match filters to your specific contaminants. Carbon filters remove chlorine and VOCs; KDF filters remove heavy metals; ceramic filters remove microorganisms.

Is Enagic Kangen water better than other ionizers?

Our independent testing shows Enagic performs well but is not universally superior; some non-MLM competitors outperform on hydrogen and filtration metrics and have better trial periods and warranties.

Why is the Enagic Kangen machine expensive?

A significant portion of the retail price reflects distributor commissions and the MLM structure, beyond manufacturing costs.

What is Kangen Water?

"Kangen" is a Japanese term that means "return to origin". It's a trademark of Enagic and a synonym for ionized water.

How do I install UltraWater Filters?

Filters for AlkaViva and Jupiter ionizers can be easily installed in the machines, following the standard instructions. External filters have to be placed in housings, which can be installed under sinks or in other filtration setups.

Do UltraWater Filters improve the taste of water?

Yes. By removing chlorine, heavy metals, and other contaminants, UltraWater Filters improve water taste and quality while leaving beneficial minerals intact.

Which contaminants can UltraWater Filters remove?

These filters remove over 249 contaminants, including heavy metals like lead and arsenic, VOCs, pharmaceuticals, chlorine, chloramine, and even fluoride (with the Fluoride Shield version).

Can UltraWater Filters be used with any water ionizer?

Yes, UltraWater Filters fit all AlkaViva and Jupiter water ionizers. For other ionizer brands, external UltraWater Filters are available to provide the same high-quality filtration.

How long do UltraWater Filters last?

The standard filter life is approximately 1,000 gallons, though actual lifespan may vary depending on water quality. Filters should be replaced as needed to maintain optimal performance.

Do UltraWater Filters remove fluoride?

Yes, the Fluoride Shield UltraWater Filter is specifically designed to remove fluoride completely, while standard filters reduce fluoride partially. For maximum fluoride removal, flow rates should not exceed 1.5 liters per minute.

What makes UltraWater Filters better than traditional water filters?

Unlike loose media filters, UltraWater Filters use a wide variety of filter media and a solid block design that forces water to fully contact all filter media. This design prevents bypassing, increases contact time, and ensures a higher percentage of contaminant removal.

Are UltraWater Filters tested in labs?

Absolutely. UltraWater Filters have undergone extensive independent lab testing (EPA/NELAP certified) and successfully removed even the toughest contaminants, including PFOAs and pharmaceuticals, beyond expectations. 249 chemicals are removed up to 99.99%, according to lab-testing.

Ionia Super-S12 Water Ionizer

Description
Reviews

Ionia Super-S12 Water Ionizer

The Ionia Super-S12 Water Ionizer is likely to be the most powerful and advanced home ionizers available. Featuring two full water cells (12 platinum-coated titanium plates total), dual internal filters, and hydrogen infusion technology, it produces ultra-clean, mineral-rich, antioxidant water with an exceptional pH range and high molecular hydrogen levels. Built for maximum performance, durability, and ease of use, the Super-S12 represents the pinnacle of Ionia’s premium ionizer lineup.

Quick Overview: Why Choose the Ionia Super-S12?

12 platinum-coated titanium plates for powerful ionization (strong pH and ORP levels)
Dual internal filters for superior contaminant removal: pure, great-tasting drinking water
Hydrogen infusion technology for antioxidant-rich water
Produces alkaline, acidic, and super-oxidized cleaning water
Automatic continuous cleaning for long-lasting performance
Easy-to-use touchscreen controls and a pull-down lever to start the flow
With a saline port, the Super S12 is versatile for cleaning, sanitizing, in addition to all the rest

Health & Performance Benefits

Alkaline ionized water promotes hydration and detoxification
Acidic “beauty water” nourishes skin, hair, and plants
Super-strong alkaline water cleans and degreases naturally
Electrochemically activated (ECA) water kills germs effectively
High ORP and molecular hydrogen levels maximize antioxidant benefits

See the Benefits of Ionized Water for plenty of information about how healthy ionized water is for a body.

The Ionia Super-S12 isn’t just an another alkaline water machine

— it’s a super-strong hydrogen-rich alkaline water machine that provides the cleanest, healthiest water possible.

For Drinking Water, you are assured of the highest performance in terms of pH and hydrogen antioxidant levels in a water ionizer.
The filters are also superior for getting out contaminants.
It is also very versatile, allowing it to create a wide range of cleaning, degreasing, and sanitizing waters. In this respect, it beats all other brands.
The saline port adds versatility and strength for cleaning water.
The Ionia Super-S12 also has advanced continuous cleaning, giving the Machine extra life and performance.
Compare this with our Best Water Ionizers of 2025.

Filtration and Filter Conservation

The Super-S12 Water Ionizer's uses high-tech and excellent filtration. These state-of-the-art water filters have a filter-life of 1,000 gallons, and only get used when filtering drinking-quality water on the right side.

The filters are bypassed when you are using the strong settings (left side spout) which uses the saline port instead. This filter conservation innovation saves the life of your filters by only filtering when you need it.

When making super-sanitizing water, high alkaline and low acidic, you don't need the water filters. Recognizing this, the design engineers bypassed regular filters whenever you set the machine to use the saline port. This saves the life of your filters, so saves you from unnecessary filter replacement expense.

Ionia Super-S12 water ionizer dual filters

Super S12 Strong 12-Plate Water Ionizer

Acidic & Super-Alkaline Water for Cleaning

The Super-S12 produces:

Mildly acidic “beauty water” for plants and skin
Super-strong alkaline water for cleaning, degreasing, and sanitizing
Super-strong acidic water (without hypochlorous acid) for germ-killing
Super-strong acidic water (without hypochlorous acid) for most germ-killing jobs
Super-strong acidic water (with hypochlorous acid) for even the most serious germ-killing needs

Super Alkaline Cleaning Water for Germ-Fighting

The video is a short demo of using the Super S12 to make Super-strong acidic or alkaline water and includes how to initiate a 30-second cleaning cycle after each use of the strong settings (left side of the machine with saline port operational).

How Strong Do You Really Need?

The stronger Hypochlorous acid, when you use 20% saline solution in the saline port, is probably too strong to apply to the skin, as it may burn the tissue, so I suggest using a milder 5% or less solution or no saline instead, for any skin applications.

I have experimented with many acidic and alkaline water levels for cleaning purposes and prefer milder water (without using the saline port) for my home. In other words, I don't care if the acidic water has hypochlorous acid in it. You can still get down to below 3 pH for killing germs with the Super S12 when you use the left side of the machine but leave the saline port empty.

strong acid without using saline

Also, for degreasing (high-alkaline water) 10.5 pH is good enough for most jobs around my kitchen and laundry.

But everybody's different, and this machine has the power and capability to provide high levels of hypochlorous acid, a proven disinfectant used in hospital or clinic settings.

strong hcl when using saline

Ionia S12 Use & Care

Precautions to Consider When Using the Saline Injection Function

Don't consume water made with saline injection. It's only for cleaning or disinfecting purposes.
Always remember to give the machine's left side (the super strong side) an extra cleaning cycle after every use of the left side. (see video above)
It will do it automatically, but you have to turn it back on after pouring strong alkaline or acidic water to trigger the extra cleaning cycle.

Demo & Testing the Ionia Super S-12 Water Ionizer

These two videos have good information about the Super S12 Water Ionizer.

Using the Ionia Super-S12 Water Ionizer

How to Reset the Filter

When the Machine is plugged in, the electric switch is ON, and the water-flow knob is in the OFF position, the water ionizer is in "standby mode." Follow these instructions when the ionizer is in standby mode.

Ionia Super-S12 water ionizer filter reset

Press/hold the top-left (Strong Alkaline) button to get into the Filter-Reset mode.
Press/hold the top-right button (normal Alkaline) to reset filter 1.
Press/hold the middle-right button (Acidic button) to reset filter 2.
Then press the Voice button (middle-left) to save the settings.

Instructions for Getting Alkaline Ionized Drinking Water & its Acidic Water Byproduct

Place a glass or container under the top alkaline spout.
If you want to collect acidic water out of the bottom hose, place the hose in a container.
Pull the lever on the top-right down.
It will automatically pour alkaline water out at the level you used last time. If this is your first use, touch the Alkaline button (top-right) to toggle the levels until you get to the level you want.

1.5 Minute Demo (With Testing)

This video shows the operation and testing of the Ionia Super-S12 Water Ionizer.

Making Sanitizing Water

Hypochlorous acid is the active ingredient in electro-chemically activated super-oxidized water (described by the CDC).

You can operate all functions of the Super S12 with an empty saline port (bin). You only need this bin when you want to make strong acidic water which contains hypochlorous acid. [Note: You can make strong acidic acid without hypochlorous acid using the strong settings on the right side of the machine.]

Filling the Saline Port Bin:

You can use a variety of concentrations of saline in the bin, which will produce a variety of levels of hypochlorous acid when you activate the strong acidic water function on the left side of the machine. Do not exceed a 20% solution.

Directions to make saline solution:

Boil 2 cups of distilled water.
Add 1 oz to 4 oz kosher salt and stir until completely dissolved. [1 oz gives an ample 5% solution for most applications; 4 oz gives the maximum 20% solution and is usually reserved for scientific, laboratory uses]
When the mixture is cooled down enough, pour it into the saline bin.
Don't disturb (i.e., shake or stir) the solution after it's in the port. To do so may cause suspended particles (undissolved solids), which may have sunk to the bottom of the bin, to get into the system.

Try to minimize the use of the saline port (strong acidic setting - left side of the machine) because overuse could damage the water cell. Also, make sure to initiate a cleaning cycle on the left side water cell immediately after each use. [The cleaning cycle automatically initiates when you start the strong acidic setting once more.]

You can purchase saline-water concentrate online.

The Science of All-Natural Sanitation

From the CDC website: https://www.cdc.gov/infection-control/media/pdfs/guideline-disinfection-h.pdf

"Freshly generated superoxidized water is rapidly effective...Page 42"

Super S12 Makes Strongest Acidic Waters to Sanitize and Disinfect

Instructions for Protecting the Super S-12 from Saline Solution Use

Always immediately flush out of the water cells any time you use the saline-injection function (left side of machine).

How to Flush Sodium Out of the Left-Side Water Cell

Immediately after using the left-side (strong acidic water) function, pull down the on/off water-control lever one more time and push the strong acidic button for the machine, and a special cleaning cycle will automatically flush out the water cell of all sodium residue. This flush takes 30 seconds.
Then, pull down on the lever again to clean the other side of the water cell.

Remove the Protective Film Covering the Display Panel

Some people just leave this film on, but it looks so much prettier with it off.

Ionia Super-S12 water ionizer front film-removal

Closing the Door (Panel) on the Front of the Machine

Place the saline bin back into its spot. Make sure it is in there correctly.
Place the left side of the filter panel in both spots (top-bottom). You can now operate the panel as a door.
Push the right side closed, and if needed, press on the middle of the door to get it to click in place.

Programming Options

Push/hold the "Mode" button (bottom-left) at the same time as the "Strongest Alkaline/Acidic" button (top-left).
A screen will appear that says "Base", and has a number showing.
Use the normal "Alkaline" button (top-right) as an up-arrow, or "Acidic" button (middle-right) as a down-arrow, to get to the level you want.
Push the "Voice" button to save the programming, and you're done.

Cautions

Not for Excessive, Industrial or Commercial Use
Ionia water ionizers are not capable of under-sink installation.

Customer Reviews

"I ABSOLUTELY LOVE MY Ionia S12 WATER IONIZING MACHINE..." — EM
"The S12 is my third ionizer, and by far the best." — TL
"Great machine! We use it for 2.5 pH acidic water and 12.5 pH alkaline water on our farm." — Myron C.
"Very easy to use with the highest antioxidants." — TL

The Ionia Company

The Ionia factory (the oldest water ionizer manufacturer in South Korea) produces many water ionizer brands...

Dimensions