Ionized Water Explained: pH, ORP and What They Mean

Ionized water comes with a lot of technical terms. This guide explains the two that matter most, pH and ORP, in plain language.

What ionized water is

A water ionizer filters tap water and passes it over electrically charged plates. This process, called electrolysis, produces alkaline water on one side and acidic water on the other.

pH

pH tells you how acidic or alkaline the water is. Drinking settings on an ionizer usually range from pH 8 to 9.5.

ORP

ORP stands for oxidation-reduction potential and is measured in millivolts. Ordinary tap water usually has a positive ORP. Freshly ionized alkaline water has a negative ORP, which shows that dissolved hydrogen is present. ORP fades with time, so the water is best used fresh.

What the research says

Scientists are still studying ionized and hydrogen-rich water. Results so far are early and mixed, so it is not correct to say that ionized water treats inflammation or any medical condition. What is clear is that it is clean, pleasant-tasting drinking water.

Reading your machine

• Higher plate count and good water flow give more stable pH and ORP.
• Source water quality changes the numbers, so results vary from city to city.
• A pH or ORP meter lets you check the water yourself.

This article is for general information only and is not medical advice. Alkaline or hydrogen water is not a treatment for any disease. If you have a health condition, please follow your doctor's guidance.