Alkaline Water Systems – Pros, Cons, and Alternatives

Alkaline water filters have become increasingly popular in Australia — but are they worth it? Here’s an honest look at the pros, cons, and alternatives so you can make an informed decision.

For a broader comparison of filter types, see our Benchtop Water Filters Guide, Reverse Osmosis Guide, and Water Distillers Guide.

What Is an Alkaline Water Filter?

Alkaline water filters raise the pH of your drinking water above 7.0 — typically to between 8.0 and 9.5 — through the addition of minerals like calcium, magnesium, and potassium. Some systems use electrolysis (ionisers), others use mineral media stages built into a multi-stage filter cartridge.

Pros of Alkaline Water Filters

Better Taste

Many people find alkaline water tastes smoother and less harsh than standard tap water. The mineral content contributes to a cleaner, more rounded flavour.

Mineral Enrichment

Alkaline filters add beneficial trace minerals — calcium, magnesium, potassium — that are often stripped out during standard filtration. Our 8-stage KDF filter includes mineral ball stages that naturally raise pH and restore trace minerals.

Removes Chlorine and Contaminants

Most alkaline filter systems include activated carbon and KDF stages that remove chlorine, heavy metals, and organic compounds — so you’re getting filtered water, not just pH-adjusted tap water.

Environmentally Friendly

Replacing bottled alkaline water with a home filter system significantly reduces plastic waste.

Cons of Alkaline Water Filters

Limited Clinical Evidence

The health claims around alkaline water are mixed. While some studies suggest benefits for acid reflux and hydration, the evidence for broader health claims is not conclusive. Consult your GP before making significant changes based on pH alone.

Not Suitable for Everyone

People with kidney conditions or those on certain medications should check with a healthcare professional before switching to alkaline water.

Higher Ongoing Costs

Ioniser-based alkaline systems can be expensive upfront and require regular maintenance. Mineral-stage filters are more affordable — our 8-stage KDF cartridge includes alkaline stages at a fraction of the cost of a dedicated ioniser.

Alternatives to Alkaline Water Filters

Reverse Osmosis (with Remineralisation)

RO removes up to 99% of dissolved contaminants including fluoride and heavy metals, then a remineralisation stage adds minerals back — producing high-purity water with a balanced pH. See our reverse osmosis range and RO Guide.

Water Distillers

Distillers produce the purest water possible, then you can add minerals back with mineral stones or drops. See our water distiller range and Water Distillers Guide.

8-Stage KDF Benchtop Filter

Our 8-stage KDF filter is the most practical all-rounder for most Australian households — it removes chlorine, heavy metals, and bacteria while adding minerals and mildly raising pH. No plumbing required, and cartridges last 6–12 months.

Magnesium Prill Beads

For a simple, low-cost way to raise pH and add magnesium, magnesium prill beads can be added to any water container or filter system.

Our Recommendation

For most Australians, an 8-stage KDF benchtop filter delivers the benefits of alkaline water (mineral enrichment, improved taste, mild pH raise) at a fraction of the cost of a dedicated ioniser. If maximum purity is the goal, pair it with an RO system or distiller.

Questions? Call us on 1800 789 781 and we’ll help you choose.