How to Increase the pH Level of RO Water
Written by: Gene Fitzgerald // Last Updated: Jul 24, 2023
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One thing that occasionally gets ignored about reverse osmosis water is its pH level.
Some people don’t realize this, but reverse osmosis water is actually slightly acidic. While this is normally not a problem for most consumers, it’s still something you may want to take into account if you’re planning on making the switch.
That said, you should rest assured that there are various ways to increase the pH level of reverse osmosis water.
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Key Takeaways
Here is how to increase the pH level of RO water:
- Add a remineralization stage to your reverse osmosis system.
- Process the water in an alkaline water pitcher.
- Add mineral drops to it.
- Process the water using a water ionizer.
How to Increase the pH Level of RO Water
If the slightly acidic nature of reverse osmosis water is a problem for you, don’t worry. As long as you know what you’re doing, you can easily bring it back within reasonable ranges.
So, here is how to increase the pH level of RO water using a remineralization filter, an alkaline water pitcher, mineral drops, or a water ionizer.
Remineralization Filter
Technically, a remineralization filter is designed to help you improve the pH balance of your reverse osmosis water. That said, it can easily be used specifically for the purpose of making it less acidic. These filters add various minerals to your water – such as magnesium, calcium, and potassium – to replenish what normally gets stripped out in the reverse osmosis process. By doing so, they increase the RO water’s pH value.
Many reverse osmosis systems come with a remineralization filter by default by the way. Sometimes you wouldn’t even know your system uses one if you don’t explicitly verify the packaging and manual. This requires some additional attention if you’re concerned with the acidity of your water. Some people don’t even realize they’re using a remineralization filter until they specifically investigate their system.
Alkaline Water Pitcher
An alkaline water pitcher is essentially the same idea, only in a more convenient, portable package. These pitchers contain a built-in remineralization stage, so all you have to do is run your reverse osmosis water through the pitcher to restore its pH level. The only downside about this approach is that it’s a bit inconvenient, as you have to manually refill the pitcher every time.
Mineral Drops
You can also purchase drops that you can add directly to your reverse osmosis water. They have a similar effect to a remineralization filter, only they’re made to be portable and usable anywhere.
The main downside to mineral drops is that it can be a bit tricky to get the dose right, but once you’re used to it, it’s pretty straightforward.
Water Ionizer?
If you have access to a water ionizer, that’s another option for increasing the pH level of your water – typically to between 8.5 and 10 (with regular water).
If you’re in the market for one for the first time, make sure to pay close attention to product descriptions and specifications, as there are many models with highly questionable properties.
What Is the pH of Reverse Osmosis Water?
The pH level of reverse osmosis water usually lies somewhere between 6 and 6.5. Because of this, reverse osmosis water is a bit more acidic than regular tap water. However, the difference isn’t that significant, and shouldn’t be noticeable for most people.
Why Is Reverse Osmosis Water Usually Acidic?
The main reason for the acidic properties of reverse osmosis water is the fact that the purification process strips away most minerals and other elements which normally contribute to water alkalinity. In other words, RO water doesn’t have a buffer to compensate acids without changing its pH level.
So as soon as the water gets in touch with the surrounding air, it becomes acidic. Why? It absorbs CO2 which, in a reaction, turns into carbonic acid making the water acidic by a tiny bit.
Further Reading:
How to Test pH of RO Water
If you want to be sure about the pH level of your reverse osmosis water, you can run some simple tests to verify it yourself. Several options are available, and most of them are pretty easy to use.
pH Test Strips
The most straightforward way is to use pH test strips. These can be purchased at many places, especially hardware stores, and can provide you with an almost immediate result that informs you about the pH level of your water.
Note that some strips aren’t very precise and only tell you if water is acidic or basic, but without any extra details about the pH levels.
Digital pH Meter
A digital pH meter can also be used to measure the pH level of water. That’s a much more expensive option compared to pH test strips, but it has the benefit of reusability. You can use a digital pH meter over and over again, and at the worst, you will just have to replace its batteries or recharge it.
This is a very useful tool in cases where you’re making constant adjustments to your filtration and want to be sure that you’re seeing the big picture at every step of the way.
Litmus Paper
Using litmus paper can give you a very simple overview of your situation. The paper will turn into one of two colors, depending on whether your water is acidic or basic. This is a simple method for testing the acidity of your water, but in some cases it’s more than sufficient for your needs.
Red Cabbage
Red cabbage is a more unusual testing tool, but it works just as well. To use it to test the acidity level of RO water, simply mix some of the cabbage with water and blend well – note that this shouldn’t be the water you’re going to test! After that, strain the resulting mixture until you’re only left with a liquid substance. Add some of your reverse osmosis water to that substance and stir well. Watch for any color changes – if it turns more red, then your water is acidic.
If you have any questions about how to increase the pH of RO water please don’t hesitate to leave a comment below!
About the Author Gene Fitzgerald
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