Water comes in various forms — ranging anywhere from tap water, purified water, alkaline water, to deionized water. While some people prefer different types of bottled water solely because of the taste, deionized water systems tend to be used because this type of water provides specific benefits that others don’t. We’re going to provide you with all of the information possible pertaining to deionized water systems, so you can make an informed decision about whether or not you should purchase one:
What is Deionized Water?
The term ‘deionized water’ is actually named this because the water lacks ions. Essentially, an ion exchange process takes place before ions are stripped from this water. Ions aren’t the only thing that this type of water lacks — it also doesn’t contain any minerals. So, is that a good thing or a bad thing? It depends.
Water that lacks minerals — like deionized water — is excellent for specific uses. It’s commonly used for commercial, scientific, and industrial purposes. This type of water shouldn’t become your primary water source because your body should be hydrated with H20 that is paired with beneficial minerals found inside other types of water.
This water is also considered to be corrosive, so it could potentially harm your tooth enamel and soft tissues. Deionized water could also contain pathogens as the ion exchange process does not eliminate them. So, why would you purchase a deionized water system if you shouldn’t drink the water?
The Benefits of Deionized Water
Even though deionized water isn’t necessarily intended for drinking, there are plenty of other ways it’s used! Chemistry labs rely on deionized water because it doesn’t affect the results of their experiment. Since the water is ‘de-ionized,’ the water is widely used in labs that conduct ion-based experiments. Not only is this type of water loved by scientists around the world for its fundamental role in experiments, but this type of water has other benefits in a lab. Anne Marie Helmenstine, Ph.D., points out the various uses of deionized in scientific settings:
- cooling applications where it’s crucial to avoid depositing minerals
- microbiology autoclaves
- many chemistry experiments involving ionic compounds
- washing glassware, especially the final rinse
- solvent preparation
- analytical blanks
- calibration standards
- in batteries
Other Primary Uses for Deionized Water
Deionized water is used in several different industries other than science, being used anywhere from aquariums to car mechanic shops. If you’re an active participant within a specific industry, you’re likely already familiar with how you can use deionized water within your respective field.
While deionized water is used across different fields, it can also be used at home. This type of water can be used to replace windshield wiper fluid, clean your car’s engine, and clean the radiator. It can also be used as a detergent to safely clean various surfaces in your home. Some doctors even recommend deionized water for people who struggle with heavy metal toxicity!
So, Why Should I Buy a Deionized Water System?
You could find bottled deionized water at your local Whole Foods, auto parts store, or pet store. Here’s the harsh reality: bottled deionized typically costs $24.99 per gallon. Imagine filling up a large aquarium with bottled water that comes by the gallon — that would take forever and get fairly expensive!
Only those who need to use deionized water on a regular basis should purchase a deionized water system. Not only will it save you time and money, but it will also help keep unnecessary plastic out of landfills and our oceans.
What is a Deionized Water System?
Well, for starters, a deionized water system is a money-saver! But in all seriousness, a deionized water system will attach to a water line filter before providing deionized water on-demand. It’s beneficial because it’s incredibly convenient for those who need large amounts of deionized water in a timely manner.
Different Methods of Water Deionization
There are three different ways that water can go through the process of deionization. Let’s break down the different processes and how they work to create deionized water suitable for home and commercial use:
- Co-current deionization: this process involves the water input and the regeneration chemicals entering at the top of an ion-exchange column flowing at the same time (or co-currently) before exiting at the bottom.
- Counter-current deionization: this process involves water flow from the bottom and regeneration chemicals from the top; it could also occur vice versa. Counter-current doesn’t require as much time as co-current deionization for the regeneration process, so fewer regenerants are required. This process is also more inexpensive than co-current deionization.
- Mixed bed deionization: This process involves a 50/50 mixture of cation and anion resin in a single ion-exchange column. While mixed bed deionization creates the highest form of purification in comparison to the other two processes, the price of this process is quite high.
Purchasing a Deionized Water System
If you’ve found that deionized water will bring you value, we highly recommend that you purchase a deionized water system. These systems range anywhere from $100 - $400 dollars. While the initial investment may seem high, you’ll soon realize that the ROI was well worth it. You’ll be able to conveniently access deionized water whenever you need it. So, if you find yourself constantly needing to run to the store to purchase more deionized water by the gallon, you should consider purchasing a deionized water system!
It’s also important to note that you can use a reverse osmosis system with a deionized water system to completely remove contaminants. Many of our customers prefer to do this because it benefits the water — and it helps the water better serve its intended purpose!
