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What is the price of 11.5 pH water?

5 min read

The price of 11.5 pH water is not straightforward, with high-end water ionizer machines like those from Enagic costing thousands of dollars. This strong alkaline water is typically not for drinking and is primarily valued for its non-consumptive applications like cleaning and emulsifying oils.

Quick Summary

The cost of obtaining 11.5 pH water is directly related to the method of production, ranging from expensive ionizer machines to more affordable concentrates. This high alkaline water is intended for cleaning and other specific household uses, not for consumption.

Key Points

  • High-End Ionizers: A primary source of 11.5 pH water is via machines like Enagic's Kangen, with costs ranging from $2,000 to over $5,000.

  • Cost-Effective Concentrates: For occasional use, alkaline concentrates are a much cheaper alternative, costing just over $1 per mixed gallon.

  • Not for Drinking: 11.5 pH water is a powerful cleaner and degreaser, not intended for human consumption.

  • Lack of Scientific Support: Health claims associated with drinking strong alkaline water lack rigorous scientific evidence, as highlighted by sources like Mayo Clinic and Harvard Health.

  • Proven Uses: The main benefit lies in its ability to remove pesticides from produce and act as a non-toxic household cleaner.

  • Total Ownership Costs: When buying an ionizer, consider the initial purchase price plus the ongoing cost of filter replacements.

In This Article

Understanding 11.5 pH Water and Its Purpose

Water with a pH of 11.5 is categorized as "strong alkaline water." Unlike mildly alkaline drinking water (pH 8-9.5), this concentration is not meant for human consumption. The human body has its own robust pH regulation system, and attempting to significantly alter it by drinking such a strong substance is ineffective and potentially harmful. Instead, 11.5 pH water is primarily used for cleaning, emulsifying oils, and removing pesticide residues from fruits and vegetables. The specific applications dictate the method of production, which in turn determines the cost.

The High Cost of an 11.5 pH Water Ionizer Machine

For many who seek 11.5 pH water, the most common route is purchasing a high-end water ionizer, such as those made by the company Enagic. These devices use electrolysis to separate and ionize water into various pH levels. The initial investment for such a machine is substantial, with prices reaching well into the thousands of dollars. For example, the Enagic Kangen Leveluk K8 water ionizer can cost upwards of £2,200 or over ₹343,000, depending on the region. This price tag covers not only the initial machine but also includes the cost of ongoing maintenance, which involves filter replacements and cleaning powder.

Other high-end ionizer costs

  • Enagic LeveLuk SD501: Costs can exceed ₹277,000 in certain markets.
  • iRayer Alkaline Water Ionizer: A more moderate option, with machines potentially producing water up to pH 10.5, can still cost a few thousand dollars.

These machines represent the most significant financial commitment but offer the convenience of on-demand access to various types of ionized water.

Price of 11.5 pH Water Concentrates

For those who only need strong alkaline water for specific, periodic tasks, purchasing a concentrate is a far more economical option. These concentrates are designed to be added to regular water to increase its alkalinity. For instance, a concentrate that makes gallons of high-pH water can cost around $1.05 per 32oz of mixed solution. This eliminates the need for an expensive machine and is a budget-friendly way to produce the water when required.

Comparative Look at 11.5 pH Water Costs

To better understand the pricing landscape, here is a comparison of different methods for obtaining or creating strong alkaline water:

Method Initial Cost Per-Use Cost Key Application Considerations
High-End Ionizer Machine (e.g., Kangen) $2,000 - $5,000+ Minimal (electricity + water) plus filter replacements On-demand water of multiple pH levels; heavy home or business use High upfront investment, requires maintenance, questionable health claims for drinking water
Alkaline Concentrate $20 - $50 Approximately $1-$2 per mixed gallon Specific cleaning tasks, stripping pesticides from produce Inexpensive, portable, does not offer multiple water types
Bottled Strong Alkaline Water (e.g., Enagic brand for cleaning) Varies based on volume Varies; example found at ₹200 for 10 liters Targeted cleaning uses Expensive for long-term or frequent use, non-consumptive purpose
DIY using Baking Soda Very low Very low (cost of baking soda) Light cleaning, creating mild alkaline water; cannot reach 11.5 pH Unreliable pH, not strong enough for heavy-duty tasks, non-consumptive

Is the High Price Justified?

The justification of the price for 11.5 pH water depends entirely on the intended use. For consumers sold on health claims, medical experts, including those from the Mayo Clinic and Harvard Health, are skeptical. They state there is a lack of scientific evidence supporting the health benefits of drinking alkaline water and that the body effectively regulates its own pH. The high cost of expensive ionizer machines is often a point of contention for this reason. A systematic review of studies on alkaline water and cancer treatment found no rigorous evidence of a benefit.

However, for those utilizing 11.5 pH water for its proven cleaning properties, the investment can be seen differently. The ability to create a non-toxic degreaser or vegetable wash on demand may be valuable to certain households. Still, cheaper and effective alternatives exist, such as concentrates or simple baking soda solutions, depending on the need.

Conclusion: Making an Informed Decision

In conclusion, the price of 11.5 pH water varies dramatically based on how it is produced. A one-time purchase of a concentrate can be an affordable way to access the water for its specific, non-consumptive cleaning benefits. In contrast, investing in a high-end ionizer machine requires a significant initial outlay and ongoing maintenance costs. The high price tag of these machines is often questioned, especially when considering the lack of scientific support for the associated health claims regarding consumption. Ultimately, a buyer should evaluate their specific needs for strong alkaline water and choose the production method that best aligns with their budget and intended application.

Here is a good resource from Healthline on the general benefits and risks of alkaline water: Healthline's article on alkaline water benefits.

Key Uses of 11.5 pH Water

Strong alkaline water is used for a number of applications, mostly related to cleaning:

  • Powerful Cleaning: Can be used as a strong degreaser for stubborn oil and grime on countertops, floors, and appliances.
  • Pesticide Removal: Effectively emulsifies and lifts off oil-based pesticides from fruits and vegetables.
  • Laundry: Recommended by some for pre-treating laundry stains or adding to wash cycles for enhanced cleaning.
  • Stain Removal: Can be used on carpets and furniture to help lift tough stains without harsh chemicals.
  • General Household Cleaning: Acts as a powerful, non-toxic all-purpose cleaner for a variety of surfaces.

These uses provide the primary value proposition for those purchasing expensive ionizer machines, not for drinking purposes.

What You Should Know Before Buying

If you are considering purchasing an expensive machine to produce 11.5 pH water, keep the following in mind:

  • Primary Use: The main use is for cleaning and external applications, not for drinking.
  • Health Claims: There is a lack of rigorous scientific evidence supporting health benefits from drinking strong alkaline water.
  • Cost vs. Need: Compare the high cost of a machine against the specific, occasional needs you may have for this type of water. Concentrates or even cheaper DIY methods may suffice.
  • Safety: Do not consume water with a pH of 11.5, as it can cause adverse effects.
  • Total Cost: Factor in replacement filters and any electrolysis enhancers required for your chosen system.

Frequently Asked Questions

The high cost of an ionizer machine is due to its advanced electrolysis technology, which allows it to produce various types of ionized water on demand, from strong alkaline (11.5 pH) to strong acidic (2.5 pH).

No, it is not recommended to drink 11.5 pH water. The human body naturally regulates its pH, and consuming such a strong alkaline substance can be harmful. Medical experts caution against the lack of scientific evidence for such health claims.

11.5 pH water is mainly used for cleaning, including degreasing surfaces, removing oil-based pesticides from produce, and lifting tough stains from laundry and carpets.

Yes, for specific cleaning applications, concentrates are a much cheaper alternative. You can purchase concentrates that, when mixed with regular water, can achieve a high alkaline pH for a fraction of the cost of a machine.

To determine if an alkaline water machine is worth the price, you should consider your intended use. If you need it frequently for specific cleaning tasks and can afford the high initial investment, it may be worthwhile. However, if you are purchasing it solely for unproven health benefits, experts suggest it may not be a worthwhile investment.

The primary difference is convenience and versatility versus cost-effectiveness. A high-end ionizer provides a range of pH waters on demand but comes with a high initial cost. Concentrates are much cheaper but are only suitable for occasional use and specific high-alkaline applications.

While you can create a mildly alkaline solution with baking soda, reliably producing water with a pH of 11.5 or higher requires a specific method like electrolysis or using a pre-made concentrate. The DIY baking soda method is not strong enough for the specific tasks where 11.5 pH water is used.

References

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Medical Disclaimer

This content is for informational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice.