Frequency Asked Questions (FAQs)
Table of Contents
UltraStream - General
All of the attributes of UltraStream water can be controlled by flow rate. The faster the water flows through, the less hydrogen potent it is. We recommend a flow rate of around 0.5 GPM (2L/min) for the best performance. You can easily adjust the flow of the UltraStream by adjusting a small tap underneath the base of the UltraStream. You can then just turn on the kitchen tap and the UltraStream regulates the flow.
Yes, the UltraStream is vegan, the fluoride reduction media in the UltraStream is not bone char.
The molecular hydrogen (H2) is generated by a reaction between the elemental magnesium of the O-Dobi media and water.
H2 is being generated while the UltraStream is at rest, and accumulating to its maximum even before you pour a glass. This means that the water (approx. 250ml) inside the UltraStream is hydrogen enriched and just waiting for you to pour. As new water enters the UltraStream the process of enrichment begins again.
We’ve measured output of up to 1.2ppm, but we have to say that it always depends on the suitability of your source water, so we can’t promise a particular number. We have found that softer (more acidic) waters generate more H2 than more alkaline input waters.
H2 production will slowly reduce over the life of your filter as calcium accretes on the O-Dobi media. That’s one reason we use KDF media. As well as removing heavy metals and neutralizing bacteria, KDF also neutralizes excess hardness in input water – before the water reaches the O-Dobi bead media.
The special magnesium O-Dobi beads react with two water molecules to produces magnesium hydroxide and hydrogen gas.
Mg ＋ 2H2O → Mg(OH)2 ＋ H2
The Hydrogen gas isn’t very water soluble so it’s a good idea to drink the water quick to get the maximum amount of molecular hydrogen.
KEY
Mg = Magnesium Metal
H2O = Water
Mg(OH)2 = Magnesium Hydroxide (often called Milk of Magnesia)
H2 = Molecular Hydrogen (Hydrogen Gas)
H = Atomic Hydrogen (Active Hydrogen)
The warranty for the UltraStream is 3 years (Conditions Apply) for parts and labour under normal use. Warranty does NOT cover filters as there are too many variables in the source water.All Products supplied by alkaway.eu are covered by the EU legal 2-year guarantee against defects or if they do not look or work as advertised. For more information on EU consumer guarantees go here.
For more details about our Guarantee and Returns Policy go here.
An UltraStream filter will last 12 months – depending, as always, on source water conditions and use. Our 12-month recommendation is based on a family of 4, who use about 2.1 gallons (8 litres) per day (8 glasses each person) for drinking and cooking.
If you use less, your filter may last longer. More – and you’ll need to replace sooner.
Filter life always depends on the quality of the input water. The more unwanted stuff in the water, the harder the UltraStream has to work. For the vast majority of users, 12 months of protection and performance is no problem.
When the filter is replaced (a simple 3-minute job) your UltraStream returns to full filtration, pH, hydrogen and antioxidant power.
Unlike electric water ionizers, the UltraStream’s filter cartridge actually contains the media that ionizes, alkalizes and infuses the water with molecular hydrogen. So when you change a filter, you get the brand new version, which will incorporate any updated technology we have implemented. That’s why we call it an ‘eternal’ system.
People want to remove Chlorine and Fluoride from their drinking water.
People want great tasting water.
The UltraStream is easy to install, to operate and to replace its filter.
It helps people feel better, perform better and enjoy a healthier life.
It is affordable, benchtop costing 22c/litre for the first year and then down to 8.6 cents on your 12 month filter change (benchtop version).
No, the UltraStream benchtop and undersink filters do not require any electricity or power supply.
Undersink UltraStream
The value in keeping long hoses comes when you are down on your knees replacing your UltraStream filter. The long hoses make it easy to remove the whole unit from under the bench and to replace the filter. With shorter hoses, you have to reach into the undersink space to remove hoses. Not fun.
The UltraStream vented faucet isn’t like a normal water filter faucet. So DO NOT install an UltraStream a normal tap/faucet.
The vented faucet is used because it takes mains pressure away from the undersink UltraStream. There are too many stories we hear of people’s flooded kitchens when they have bought eBay UltraStreams and installed them under the sink without a vented faucet. Only to find that they could not withstand mains pressure.
Please note that the UltraStream must be installed undersink with a vented faucet. Guarantee/warranty claims will be void if it is not. Purchase an UltraStream Undersink Kit with Vented Faucet here.
Which one suits me
For renters, we recommend the UltraStream benchtop unit. This can be fitted to most household taps/faucets and when you decide to move, it can be easily take it with you.
UltraStream - Installation
There are 2 ways to install the UltraStream.
1. Benchtop – For this connection to work, the faucet has to be “normal mixer tap”. You’ll utilize a flow diverter valve to control the water flow. When the slider bar of the diverter valve is pushed in one direction, the water will flow from the tap as normal. When you push it the other way, the water will be sent into the UltraStream.
2. Undersink – For those who want to put their benchtop UltraStream under their sink, we have an undersink kit option that includes a separate dedicated vented faucet with all the connecting parts. Installation doesn’t require a plumber, but if you’d feel more comfortable using one, go ahead. We have sourced the specially designed vented faucet from the best water filter engineers in the US to developed the vented faucet for us. There’s no need to worry about lead, it’s made from lead-free brass, finished in chrome. Please note that we cannot be responsible for the efficacy of your undersink installation (please follow instruction manual fully).
IMPORTANT: Do not try to install the UltraStream under the sink without our special vented faucet! Non vented faucets void any guarantee or warranty.
Quick connect fittings are a simple method of attaching hoses, they have the capacity of withstanding mains pressure.
To make a connection the tube is simply pushed in (hard) by hand. The unique patented collet locking system then holds the tube firmly in place without deforming it or restricting flow.
To remove it, push the collet around the hose in as you pull the hose out.
The easiest way to find out the size of the thread in your mixer tap/faucet is to remove the aerator (this is the part that screws off at the end of your tap) and measure the diameter (across the centre) of the thread. The adaptor set includes most common tap adaptors. Contact us and we will assist you.
In our design of the UltraStream, we wanted to, where possible, reduce the waste of materials. We really wanted the stainless steel (SS) sleeve for strength and cleanliness but didn’t want to throw it away with each filter change, so we had our engineers create a removable reusable sleeve.
When you change over to a new filter, (new replacement filters are mostly supplied without a SS sleeve) you will need to put the old filter sleeve onto the new filter. Removing the stainless steel sleeve video.
The blue tap under the UltraStream is where we connect the inlet hose. The tap also controls the water flow into the UltraStream, which, in turn, affects the output alkalinity of the water. When you install your UltraStream, adjust the tap until you have around 2 litres of water output per minute.
Tap connection
Yes – The UltraStream is supplied with a flow diverter and adaptors that are designed to fit most taps. The adaptor rings included come with the either with male or female threads that fit most kitchen taps. There are four adaptors supplied with every new benchtop UltraStream. If your flow diverter is leaking, you can try applying plumbers thread tape to the thread of the adaptor ring.
If none of the provided adaptor rings fit your tap, please then contact us as we do have special sized adaptors ring. Even an adaptor ring to fit a pull put hose tap.
To help us find the right adaptor for you, we need to see a photo with an accurate measurement of your tap or the taps aerator (this is the part that screws off from the end of your kitchen tap).
If none of the adaptor rings fit, then there are other options;
1. You can you install the UltraStream under the sink using our Undersink Kit.
2. You can install your UltraStream with an Above Sink Kit.
3. Use a Jubilee Fitting (a rubber fitting which can go over you faucet and secured to the tap with a metal clamp)
4. You could change your kitchen tap, or
5. You could use the UltraStream in your bathroom or laundry.
The easiest way to find out the size of the thread in your mixer tap/faucet is to remove the aerator (this is the part that screws off at the end of your tap) and measure the diameter (across the centre) of the thread.
Take a clear photo with an accurate measurement of your aerator diameter. Then Contact us and we will assist you.
Yes in 95% of cases Attaching your UltraStream to your kitchen faucet is, in 95% of cases, easy.
The flow diverter and adaptors are designed to fit taps with male and female threads with a diameter of 21 – 23 mm. Four adaptors are included with every new benchtop UltraStream to connect the flow diverter to different sized taps.
This is how easy it is…
1. Remove the existing aerator from your tap.
2. Check if the flow diverter screws on. If so great. If not…
2. Select the adaptor ring that fits.
3. Attach the adaptor ring to the supplied flow diverter
4. Screw the adaptor ring and flow diverter assembly to your tap.
Benchtop Installation Video – https://youtu.be/i3yuEegEfRA
If your flow diverter is leaking only a small amount, you can try applying Teflon thread tape to the thread of the adaptor ring.
If none of the provided adaptor rings fit your tap, then we do have the following solutions:
1. You can you install the UltraStream under the sink using our Undersink Kit.
2. You can install your UltraStream with an Above Sink Kit.
3. Use a Jubilee Fitting (a rubber fitting which can go over you faucet and secured to the tap with a metal clamp).
4. You could change your kitchen tap, or
5. You could use the UltraStream in your bathroom or laundry.
Other connections
Yes, the UltraStream can be connected at the end of the reverse osmosis (RO) system with the vented faucet supplied with the UltraStream.
You could also remove the RO system completely and replace it with the UltraStream.
Yes, unlike electric water ionizers, the UltraStream will also work well with a water softener.
Softened water isn’t something you want to drink or cook with, so the UltraStream is a great solution for consumption when you need to maintain soft water for appliance life and showering.
UltraStream Hydrogen
It is a selective antioxidant. It targets and neutralizes the harmful, cytotoxic free radicals, such as hydroxyl radicals.
Scientific studies have concluded that Hydrogen may help and prevent a range of diseases and acts as an inflammatory.
The highest Hydrogen level is with your first glass in the morning.
No. It will reduce over the life of the filter. This is related:
a) to the suitability of your water in terms of Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) and pH
b) the intervals between uses.
Ideally you should attempt to get a glass of water, wait up to an hour, then repeat. This aligns with most people’s drinking habits and give the elemental magnesium time to regenerate more Hydrogen.
Yes. But let’s be honest here. Our Reggie (Son’s dog) is as finicky about what he eats and drinks as some teenagers we know. He still prefers the water from the saucer under our Peace lily plant. Cats are just as headstrong.
That being said, over the years we have had many heart-warming stories about how the alkaline water saved old dogs from pain and suffering.
Get advice from your vet to ensure what is best for your pet.
UltraStream Filtering
The UltraStream Benchtop and undersink units use the world’s most refined activated alumina media. Removing 78% of Fluoride throughout the life of the filter (792.5 gallons – 3000L). Preview the results from the laboratory test report.
Yes. Through lengthy research and development, the UltraStream uses the world’s best refined activated alumina media. Removing 78% of Fluoride throughout the life of the filter (792.5 Gallons – 3000L). Preview the results from the laboratory test report.
Through lengthy research and development, the UltraStream uses the world’s best refined activated alumina media. Removing 78% of Fluoride throughout the life of the filter (792.5 gallons – 3000L). Preview the results from the laboratory test report.
Yes. Our latest version UltraStream has integrated Virus Guardian technology which has USA NSF approval for up to 99% removal of viruses, bacteria and cysts.
Heavy metals including mercury, lead, aluminum and copper, as well as bacteria, pesticides, algae and fungi. For more details, Preview the laboratory test report.
Trouble shooting
This is not a problem although we wouldn’t recommend it on a regular basis. The UltraStream was not made to put hot water through it. However…
When hot water runs through the filtration media their is a chance for it to create tunnels through the filter. When tunnels are created the water can run through without contact with the media which means it doesn’t get filtered anymore.
When we designed the UltraStream we made sure that if hot water was run through the filter then it would limit the chance of hot water creating tunnels. We use a specially designed ‘spiral spreader’ that forces the water to spread evenly throughout the filter. This means that these tunnels will be harder to create. The negative side of any hot water intrusion is that hot water will ‘liberate’ some chlorine already accumulated so you’ll get high chlorine output while the hot water is passing through.
This is NOT air, it is the Molecular Hydrogen that has escaped from the water as a gas.
The spurting happens because Molecular Hydrogen has built up in the UltraStream overnight and/or when it hasn’t been used for a while. The first glass of water that comes out of the UltraStream has the best level of hydrogen infused in it, and has the most of this anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory qualities.
It is likely you have accidentally turned off the water flow at the blue and white tap on the bottom of the UltraStream.
To check to see if this is the problem:
1, Turn your UltraStream on its side.
2, You can adjust the tap under the base (recommended fully on – inline with the hose going into the tap).
OR the input hose feeding water into your UltraStream has become kinked. So straighten the kinked section of tube.
OR if the UltraStream is installed under the sink you may have inadvertently pushed the Grey JG Converter at the top of the UltraStream in too far.
In this case, please do the following as soon a possible:
1, Turn off the cold water connector under the sink.
2, Use the quick connect spanner and take out the Grey 1/4″ tube converter on the top of the UltraStream.
3, Push on the benchtop spout to the top of the UltraStream.
4, Put water through the UltraStream by turning the cold water connector back on (make sure you have the UltraStream spout over a bucket for the water to flow into it)
5, If the water starts to flow again don’t reinsert the old Grey 1/4″ tube converter.
6, Contact Us for a new Grey 1/4″ tube converter to replace your old one.
OR if the above doesn’t work then it may have blocked up prematurely due to a municipal pipe flush which creates a lot of sediment in the water, or you may be overdue for a new replacement filter.
Alkaline water
This depends on a number of variables. But as a general guide… for medium weight people is to drink about 1/3 of your body weight in ounces a day. So if you weigh 150 lbs (68 kgs), you should drink roughly 50 fluid oz (1.47 Litres) of water. If you work out, if it’s hot and you’re sweating more, if you fly, if you have a soda/coffee/tea, then you can choose to drink more. All of those things speed up the elimination of water and therefore, we need more.
Everyone has a different reaction to UltraStream water. It is not just ultra-pure, it is also mineralised, alkaline, energised and rich in molecular hydrogen. Your body will acknowledge that there’s something happening in its hydration effect.
We’ve seen many reactions, immediate pain relief, greater urination, energy surges, a thirst for more, the feeling of silken water, detox symptoms and more. It’s good to take a note of them so you can see how the symptoms play out longer term.
An important point to keep in mind is that the most powerful water from your UltraStream will be the first glass in the morning. If you pour more than one glass, the Hydrogen effect will lessen.
Our independent laboratory tests used a water sample that was a ‘witches brew’ of pesticides, volatile organics, fluoride, chlorine, heavy metals, and minerals. The UltraStream changed an input pH of 7 to an output pH 9 in these tests. We’ve pushed the laboratory much farther than the normal laboratory tests by asking for performance statistics beyond the normal lifespan of the filter. Most water filter tests are taken from the first water out of the filter. Most do not test for a possible reduction in performance as the filter is continued in service.
Preview the UltraStream laboratory test report
UltraStream’s pH performance is directly related to the input water. Tap water is usually around pH 7.0 for most homes. The UltraStream performs wonderfully in this environment and will consistently produce water ranging from pH 8.0 – 9.0. Most commonly, the water starts at pH 9.0 at installation, and by the time the filter needs to be replaced, it measures closer to pH 8.0. The bottom line: more acidic input water will have a lower pH, more alkaline input water will have a higher pH but both may be adjusted using the flow control at the bottom of the UltraStream.
There are a couple of other advantages as well. In hard water with excessive levels of alkaline minerals (like an overabundance of calcium), the UltraStream uses a special patented media that alters the form of the calcium and prevents it from clogging the filter. It also re-infuses input water with healthier levels and proportions of alkaline minerals, as well as ionizing the water.
We’ve used our two decades of water filter experience to ensure this lasts the life of the filter, so you have excellent purity and performance from start to finish.
We suggest waiting at least 30 minutes before or after eating a large meal.
Alkaline water has the potential to reduce the efficacy of your gastric acid.
(Although some Italians drink alkaline water with every meal…)
Yes, you can drink UltraStream water as you would drink regular tap water.
We have observed that the amount of water people can drink once they install their UltraStream will increase because it seems to not bloat people as many ordinary tap waters do. We aim for x8 250ml glasses per day.
Try to drink it as close to the moment it leaves the UltraStream for maximum molecular hydrogen.