At Tri-County Water, we take water quality seriously. One of the most pressing concerns facing Michigan homeowners today is the presence of PFAS — a group of man-made contaminants often referred to as “forever chemicals.” These compounds are persistent in both the environment and the human body and have become a growing issue in both public water systems and private wells throughout Mid- and West-Michigan.

This guide is here to help you better understand PFAS and how you can protect your home and health. We’ll cover:

• What PFAS are

• Where they come from

• Why they matter

• How to reduce or eliminate them from your water

Alkaline water has a higher pH level than standard tap water. While most municipal water systems supply water with a neutral pH of around 7, alkaline water typically falls between 8 and 9 on the pH scale. This elevated pH can occur naturally due to the presence of minerals like calcium, magnesium, and potassium, or it can be created through treatment systems that infuse those minerals into the water.

Some people believe that alkaline water helps neutralize acid in the body, potentially offering a number of wellness-related benefits. While scientific evidence is still developing, many consumers report feeling more hydrated and energized when they make the switch.

Though research is ongoing, some commonly believed advantages of alkaline water include:

• Balancing Body Acidity: Modern diets tend to be highly acidic due to processed foods and sugar. Alkaline water may help balance your body’s pH.
• Better Hydration: It’s believed that the molecular structure of alkaline water allows for quicker and deeper hydration at the cellular level.
• Supporting Detox: Some suggest that alkaline water helps the body flush out toxins more effectively.
• Antioxidant Potential: There are claims that alkaline water can act as an antioxidant, helping combat the effects of oxidative stress.
• Bone Health Support: A few small studies suggest it may help reduce the loss of calcium from bones, though more research is needed.

Even though these claims aren’t fully backed by science yet, many people enjoy alkaline water simply because they feel better drinking it.

If you’re curious about trying alkaline water without committing to bottled water or a full home system, here are a few DIY methods you can try:

1. Baking Soda Method

• How it works: Add 1/8 teaspoon of baking soda to 8 oz. of filtered water and stir until fully dissolved.
• Pros: Inexpensive and easy.
• Cons: The taste is often salty, and the pH levels may vary depending on your base water.

2. Lemon Water Method

• How it works: Squeeze fresh lemon juice into your water and let it sit for several hours. Although lemons are acidic, they may have an alkalizing effect after digestion.
• Pros: Natural and refreshing flavor.
• Cons: Requires prep time and doesn’t consistently raise pH levels.

3. Alkaline Drops

• How it works: Available at health stores or online, these drops are added to your water based on the manufacturer’s directions.
• Pros: Convenient, especially when you’re on the go.
• Cons: Ongoing cost, and some brands may contain synthetic additives.

Bottled alkaline water is available in most stores, offering an easy way to try it without setting up anything at home. Brands like Essentia or Smartwater promote enhanced pH levels and added electrolytes.

Pros: Convenient, portable, and ready to drink.

Cons: Bottled water can become expensive over time, and the environmental impact of plastic waste is significant. Additionally, you don’t always know exactly where the water is sourced or how it’s treated.

The Better Option: A Reverse Osmosis System with Mineral Enhancement

For homeowners who want clean, consistent, and high-quality alkaline water on demand, the best long-term solution is a reverse osmosis (RO) system with a remineralization filter.

How It Works:

RO systems remove a wide range of impurities by forcing water through a fine membrane. After filtration, a remineralization cartridge reintroduces essential minerals to raise the pH level and deliver alkaline water straight from your tap.

Benefits of a Reverse Osmosis System:

• Reliable pH Control: You get consistently high-quality alkaline water without the guesswork of DIY methods.
• Powerful Filtration: Removes chlorine, lead, PFAS, fluoride, and more.
• Lower Long-Term Costs: After initial setup, your only ongoing expenses are maintenance and filter changes—far less than buying bottled water regularly.
• Environmentally Friendly: No plastic waste or ongoing packaging impact.
• Convenient: You’ll have clean, alkaline water available at your sink anytime.

Considerations:

• Initial Investment: The upfront cost can be higher than other methods, but it pays off over time.
• Maintenance: Filter changes and occasional system checks are necessary, but minimal with proper care.
• Water Waste: RO systems do produce some wastewater, though many high-efficiency models minimize this.

Professional Installation Matters

Choosing the right system is important—but having it installed correctly matters just as much. That’s why our team at Tri-County Water always recommends a professional consultation. We’ll test your current water, walk you through system options, and ensure a seamless installation tailored to your home’s needs.

The Tri-County Water Advantage

We’ve been helping families across Jackson, Kalamazoo, Lansing, Hillsdale, Kendallville, Fort Wayne, and beyond get better water since 1966. Our locally trusted water treatment specialists can help you find the right alkaline water solution for your home, without the hassle or confusion.

If you’re ready to explore reverse osmosis systems or want to learn more about your water quality, give us a call at (800) 894-1818 or contact us here for a free consultation.

Clean, Refreshing, Alkaline Water—Made Easy.

Your home deserves better water. With Tri-County Water, it’s never been easier to get it.