Copper vs. Alkaline Water Purifiers: What Is Better?

In this article, we will examine the key differences between copper and alkaline water purifiers, compare their water purification features, and help you decide which one is better suited to your needs and requirements. 

What is a Copper Water Purifier? 

A Copper Water Purifier uses copper as an element to purify drinking water. It will typically include a copper cartridge, copper vessel, or copper-infused filter that releases trace amounts of copper ions into the purified water. These ions have antimicrobial properties that kill or reduce the growth of bacteria, viruses, and fungi in the water. 

Copper is typically used along with other purification stages, like sediment filters, UV/RO, to add natural minerals and more benefits. Some machines use copper on its own (especially for low-contamination water), while others combine it with RO, UV, or activated carbon stages. 

Copper water purifiers also improve the quality of the water and can have various health benefits like improved digestion, immunity, adding beneficial minerals, and better skin health.

What is an Alkaline Water Purifier?

An alkaline water purifier is designed to purify water using filters such as RO/UV/UF and to adjust the pH of the water, making it more alkaline (above the neutral pH of 7). It uses a mineral cartridge or the process of electrolysis to add minerals such as calcium, magnesium, and potassium. 

The idea is that alkaline water helps neutralise acid in the body, giving better hydration, and provides antioxidation benefits. The purifier still ensures contaminants are filtered out; the alkaline stage is more about taste, mineral content, and possible health benefits. 

Copper vs Alkaline: Key Differences

Now, let us understand the actual difference between copper and alkaline water purifiers. Here is a table to help you compare and choose a model that is suitable for your household's needs: 

Which One Should You Choose?

Choosing between alkaline water purifiers vs. copper water purifiers depends on a few different factors, like water quality, your preferences, budget, etc. Here are some things you should consider before choosing one. 

1. Test your Water First

    

• Check for TDS (Total Dissolved Solids) and hardness of your water and its source (municipal, borewell, etc). 

   

• If your water is very contaminated, you will probably need extra filters like RO, UV. In this case, look for additional filters, such as those with copper or alkaline purifiers. 

   

1. Health Benefits

    

• If you want more antimicrobial benefits, a copper purifier will help you. 

   

• If you prefer water with a balanced pH, or if your water source is acidic, an alkaline purifier may be better for you. You can check out this model: Eureka Forbes Aquaguard Enrich Astor Water Purifier with RO+UV | Alkaline Filter | NanoPore Filter with 2 Yr Filter Life

1. Taste Preference

    

• Some people can dislike the metallic aftertaste that can come from copper cartridges, while others like it. 

   

•  Water from an alkaline purifier will have a slightly more neutral taste if that is what you prefer. 

   

1. Budget and Maintenance

    

• If you prefer simpler maintenance and lower costs, copper purifiers may be the easier choice (if your water source is not too contaminated). Here is a model suitable for budget buyers: Eureka Forbes Aquaguard Crest UV Water Purifier with Mineral Guard Technology, Active Copper with Zinc Booster Cartridge

   

• Alkaline machines usually need more care and maintenance (filter changes), which can add to the costs. 

   

1. Safety and Certification

    

• With a copper purifier, make sure the copper cartridge is certified and the copper ions released into the water are at safe drinking water levels. 

   

• For alkaline purifiers, check whether the mineral cartridges are safe to use and do not have harmful levels of minerals in them. 

   

1. Combinations

    

• Some purifier models like this one: Native by Urban Company M1 Water Purifier with 8L Capacity | Needs no Service for 2 Years | 10-Stage Purifier | 4-in-1 Health Booster | RO+UV+Copper+Alkaline, combine both features: RO/UV with alkaline and copper-infused filters, to ensure completely safe water purification.  This approach will offer the best of both worlds, but it may increase purchasing and maintenance costs.

Conclusion:

In the copper vs. alkaline water purifiers debate, the right choice depends on your preference, water quality, budget, household, etc. Copper water purifiers are a great choice when you want natural antimicrobial features and simple mineral enrichment. Alkaline water purifiers are beneficial for balancing the pH level of water, enhancing its taste, and replenishing essential minerals.

If you want both, and your water condition needs more filters, a combined system could offer the best features for you. However, you should test your water, understand your health and budget needs, and then make an informed choice accordingly. The best water purifier is the one that is best suited to you.