As of 2026 · From AQUACENTRUM water retailer since 2007
Kangen Water Kangen Water is alkaline activated water produced by Japanese Leveluk™ devices from the company Enagic. The term has been trademarked since 2005. In this guide, you will learn everything about its effects, production, prices, measurements, and what truly distinguishes Kangen Water from other activated waters—including a... direct hydrogen measurement comparison between Kangen K8, EOS Genesis and H2 Turbo 3.0.
A personal word from Yasin Akgün (founder of AQUACENTRUM):
"I've been working with Kangen equipment since 2007 and have personally advised several thousand customers during that time. Over the years, I've learned that Kangen is a very good machine, but it's not the only one—and no longer the most powerful—on the market. As an independent retailer, I can honestly tell you which machine is best for you. And sometimes that's..." not Kangen — but a modern alternative at half the price.”
AQUACENTRUM has been selling since 2007 Kangen devices (Enagic SD501, K8, JRII) and Alternatives like the AquaVolta® ECA Water Tractor. This makes us one of the few manufacturer-independent specialist retailers in Europe, allowing us to directly compare Kangen with competitor models — using real measurements instead of advertising promises.
Important in advance: This article contains an important book excerpt from Karl Heinz Asenbaum, Electroactivated Water – From “Healing Water from the Socket” to Hydrogen Therapy, 10th completely revised edition. (April 2019), pages 255 ff.
" Our long-time technical author deals in detail with the technical features of the LevelukTM devices and also highlights the critical aspects — such as the use of sodium hypochlorite in the “Electrolysis Enhancer”.
Table of Contents
- What is Kangen Water? — Definition
- The 3 main features in detail
- Manufacturing: What equipment is available?
- Kangen K8 vs. AquaVolta ECA Water Tractor — The tough hydrogen test
- Scientific studies on alkaline hydrogen water
- Kangen® vs. Activated Water — The Asenbaum Book Extract
- Price comparison: How much does a Kangen ionizer cost?
- Experiences with Kangen Water — What do users report?
- Frequently Asked Questions about Kangen Water (FAQ)
- Conclusion & Buying Advice
Kangen Water — The Definition
Kangen Water® has been a copyrighted term since 2005. This is activated water that has been treated (ionized) by devices from the manufacturer EnagicTM. Kangenwasser® is fundamental alkaline water, whereby the pH value can vary between 8,5 and 9,5. In addition, strong Kangen Water® with a pH value of around 11 can also be produced; However, this is not suitable for drinking, but is used as a textile cleaning agent or for washing food.
"Kangen" is a Japanese word meaning roughly "return to the source." The term was introduced by Enagic Inc. (founded in Osaka in 1974) as a brand name for their water purification equipment.
Technically speaking, Kangen is water:
- Electrolyzed water (activated by electricity)
- Basic (pH 8,5 – 9,5 for drinking water)
- Hydrogen-enriched (contains molecular hydrogen H₂, which has, among other things, selective antioxidant properties)
- It has a negative ORP (Redox potential) of approximately -300 to -600 mV
- Cluster-reduced (smaller groups of water molecules are claimed)
Important: The term "Kangen Water" is trademarked and may therefore only be used for water produced with a Leveluk™ device from Enagic. Comparable water from other water ionizers is usually referred to as "alkaline activated water" or "ionized water".
The 3 main features in detail
Basically, Kangen Water® is supposed to be similar to so-called hexagonal water, characterized by three essential, positive qualities:
- Thanks to its slightly alkaline pH value, it helps to deacidify the organism - an important quality given today's diet, which is predominantly characterized by acidic pH values.
- It has a selective antioxidant effect and thus helps to eliminate aggressive radicals in the body.
- It forms particularly small molecule clusters, which allows water to penetrate better into human cells, where the body needs it.
1. Alkaline (pH 8,5 – 9,5) — Acid-base balance
Alkaline water has a pH value above 7 and can help balance the daily acid intake from the modern diet. Measurements show:
- Tap water: pH 6,5 – 7,5 (neutral to slightly acidic)
- Kangen Water (Level 1): pH 8,5
- Kangen Water (Level 2): pH 9,0
- Kangen Water (Level 3): pH 9,5
- Strong Kangen Water: pH 11 (DO NOT drink!)
The effect: Alkaline water acts as a gentle buffer against over-acidification in the body. Experiences from around the world show improvements in reflux symptoms, digestive problems, and acid reflux.
⚠️ Note: People with stomach ulcers or taking acid-blocking medication should consult a doctor before drinking.
2. Redox potential (ORP) -300 to -600 mV)
The ORP (Oxidation Reduction Potential) Measures the ability of a liquid to reduce (= protect) other substances. Negative values mean: The water emits electrons instead of recording them.
Rates:
| drink | ORP (mV) | Effect |
|---|
| tap water | +200 to +400 | oxidizing |
| Glue | + 400 | strongly oxidizing |
| Kangen Water (pH 9,5) | -300 to -600 | powerful antioxidant |
| Green tea | -100 to -300 | antioxidant |
This makes Kangen water particularly suitable for oxidative Stress interesting — a condition that is associated with many diseases of civilization.
3. Microclusters and improved cell penetration
Normal water molecules form clusters of 10–20 molecules. Through electrolysis, these clusters are temporarily broken down into smaller units in Kangen water. 5-6 molecules reduced. This has two practical effects:
- Improved cell uptake (faster hydrating)
- Softer mouthfeel (Users report a "silky" taste)
Note: The cluster theory is highly controversial in the scientific community. Magnetic resonance studies show that water clusters dissolve in nanoseconds. The practical effect is more likely due to the dissolved H₂ molecules.
Manufacturing: What equipment is available?
Even in private households, producing Kangen Water® is easily achievable. This is made possible by devices from the Leveluk™ product line by Enagic™. These devices are simply connected to the water supply and treat the water using electrolysis – similar to conventional water ionizers. The main difference is that Leveluk™ machines can also produce highly acidic water, which is suitable, for example, for sterilizing food or cleaning glass surfaces.
Investing in such a device can be worthwhile for private households that want to process their regular tap water into extremely digestible drinking water over several years or use it for various cleaning purposes.
You can purchase the popular Kangen® Enagic® K8 and SD 501 from us. buy, borrow or acquire used.
The current Kangen/Leveluk models at AQUACENTRUM
| Model | electrodes | New price (gross) | Second hand | Rental fee |
|---|
| Kangen K8 Leveluk (Top model) | 8 plates | €4.700 | on request | 200 € / month |
| SD501 (Original since 2005) | 7 plates | €3.980 | from €1.970 including 5-year warranty | |
💡 AQUACENTRUM tip: A Used SD501 with 5-year warranty for €1.970 This is currently our recommended entry point into the Kangen world — significantly cheaper than buying new, and the quality of Enagic devices hardly diminishes over decades. Since 2007, we at AQUACENTRUM have brokered hundreds of used Enagic devices — the vast majority of which are still working perfectly after 15+ years.
➡ View Kangen devices in the shop
➡ Used Kangen devices (SD501 from €1.970)
➡ Rent a Kangen K8 Leveluk (€200/month)
Kangen K8 vs. AquaVolta ECA Water Tractor — The tough hydrogen test
The most frequently asked question from our customers: "Why should I buy a Kangen ionizer when there are cheaper alternatives?"
As a manufacturer-independent specialist retailer, we have had the opportunity for over 15 years to directly compare all devices — not with advertising figures, but with real measurementsThe result surprises many Kangen fans:
🎥 Our measurement video: Kangen K8 vs. EOS Genesis vs. H2 Turbo 3.0
[su_youtube url=”https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cBbXvHfbUWc”]
Hydrogen content measurement: Kangen K8 vs. EOS Genesis vs. H2 Turbo 3.0 — We measure the hydrogen content of each device directly from the dispensing point — the differences are significant.
Comparison table with actual measured values
| feature | Kangen K8 Leveluk | AquaVolta ECA Water Tractor | BestElements Basic |
|---|
| New price | 4.700 € gross | €2.870 (or returns from) €2.370) | €1.890 |
| electrodes | 8 plates titanium/platinum | Titanium/platinum coated | 7 plates |
| pH value (max) | to 11,0 | 9,9 (Drinking water) / up to 11,5 | to 10,5 |
| ORP (max negative) | approx. -600 mV | -950 mV | approx. -500 mV |
| H₂ content (measured) | clearly lower | ~1.500 ppb at °dH16, max. level, 1 L/min | approximately 900 ppb |
| Filter interval | 12 months | 18 months | 12 months |
| Sales model | MLM (Multi-Level Marketing) | Direct sales / specialist retailers | Direct sales |
🎯 The surprising result of our measurements
The AquaVolta ECA Water Tractor delivers at °dH16, highest electrolysis stage and a flow rate of 1 liter/minute:
- ~1.500 ppb of molecularly dissolved hydrogen per liter
- pH 9,9 (perfect as drinking water)
- ORP -950 mV (extremely antioxidant)
The Kangen K8 — despite its higher price — achieves significantly worse H₂ values in our measurements. This is due to the electrode configuration and the flow rate. Enagic has barely developed the technology further since 2005, while manufacturers like AquaVolta have continuously optimized it.
➡ Full comparison with further details: Kangen vs. ECA Water Tractor
Our honest conclusion
Kangen Enagic devices are solid premium quality With over 40 years of manufacturing experience — Enagic really does build durable devices. But the combination of MLM distribution structure (a lot of commission in the price) and technical standstill (No further development of the electrodes since 2005) makes Kangen an expensive but no longer the most powerful product.
Our test clearly shows: Who visites maximum hydrogen content will, gets with the AquaVolta ECA Water Tractor Significantly more H₂ per liter — at almost half the price of Kangen. And with a ECA returns for €2.370 even cheaper.
Who should buy Kangen:
- Fans of the Japanese brand and manufacturer loyalty
- Existing customers with a tied filter system
- Anyone who can get a used SD501 for €1.970 (good value for money)
Who should consider alternatives:
- Anyone who wants the maximum H₂ content for their health
- Price-conscious buyers who do not want to buy through MLM
- Buyers with a need for current electrode technology
Scientific studies on alkaline hydrogen water
While "Kangen Water" as a brand name is not directly examined in scientific studies, there is extensive research on the drugs, which make up Kangen Water — especially molecular hydrogen (H₂) and alkaline water.
Studies on molecular hydrogen (H₂)
- More than 2.000 scientific publications (As of 2024, database:) molecularhydrogenfoundation.org)
- Investigated in: oxidative stress, inflammation, type 2 diabetes, metabolic syndrome, sports recovery, neurodegenerative diseases
- Reference: Ohsawa et al. (2007) “Hydrogen acts as a therapeutic antioxidant by selectively reducing cytotoxic oxygen radicals” in Nature Medicine
Studies on alkaline water
- Koufman & Johnston (2012): pH 8,8 alkaline water inactivates pepsin in reflux patients (Annals of Otology, Rhinology & Laryngology)
- Heil (2010): Influence of mineral alkaline water on the acid-base balance in athletes (Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition)
Studies specifically on Enagic/Kangen
- The Japanese Ministry of Health and Welfare has designated water ionizers as medical equipment Recognized (since 1966!)
- Kangen devices are in use in over 5.500 Japanese clinics and hospitals.
➡ Full list of studies: Studies on hydrogen water
Note: Aquacentrum is a water retailer, not a medical facility. The studies are linked for informational purposes. If you have health problems, please consult a doctor.
Kangen® vs. Activated Water
Below is an excerpt from the book. Karl Heinz Asenbaum, Electroactivated Water – From “Healing Water from the Socket” to Hydrogen Therapy, 10th completely revised edition. (April 2019), pages 255 ff, which deals with the topic of Kangen Water® in an FAQ.
Ralf H.: What is the difference between Kangen Water® and activated water?
- Kangen Water® is a trademark, protected since 2005 by the long-established Japanese company Enagic™, for activated water produced using a device from this manufacturer. These devices, offered in Europe under the model name Leveluk™ by multi-level marketing companies, for example, are similar in design and electrolysis performance to water ionizers from other manufacturers. The term Kangen® Water is only used in the instruction manual for... basic Kangen® Water is used in activated water formulations with pH levels of 8,5, 9, 9,5, and 11 (strong). Filtered and acidic water is not referred to as Kangen® Water. Kangen® Water is therefore fully alkaline activated water. However, water with pH 11 is not drinking water. Therefore, "Strong Kangen® Water" is not suitable for drinking.® The product “Water” (pH 11) comes with a warning not to drink it. It is intended for removing stubborn, greasy stains, washing fish, meat, and vegetables, and cleaning floors.
However, there is a special feature of the Enagic™– Equipment: To produce “Strong Acidic Water” (—> Anolyte) and “Strong Kangen Water” (—> Catholyte), the devices are equipped with a liquid tank into which an “Electrolysis Enhancer for producing strong Acidic Water”, manufactured exclusively by the Enagic Osaka Factory, is poured. When the corresponding operating mode is selected, the correct dosage of this enhancer is added to the water. …
This liquid electrolysis enhancer differs from an ordinary saline solution (NaCl) in water in that it also contains sodium hypochlorite (NaClO – also known as "Eau de Labarraque"). Sodium hypochlorite is, for example, the main active ingredient in disinfectant and bleaching household cleaners and is also marketed as "active chlorine." I cannot see the necessity for this additive, since adding table salt to any water ionizer with a salt crystal feed chute already produces a large quantity of hypochlorous acid in the anode chamber. Hypochlorous acid is a crucial active ingredient of the anolyte with regard to the disinfecting power of the oxidized water. I suspect that the hypochlorite additive in the "Electrolysis Enhancer" primarily serves to keep the saline solution stable and germ-free for an extended period before use. In fact, I have observed mold growth on such a tank when an original Electrolysis Enhancer with a hygiene additive was not used. The bottles also do not have an expiration date.
Industrial equipment for producing anolyte (neutral) also uses liquid salt (brine), as this can be dosed more precisely via a so-called "Venturi pump" than by adding crystal salt, which dissolves in water in varying amounts and at different rates.
Unlike industrial equipment that has precise flow control of the feed water, Leveluk does not offer this feature.™The device does not allow for precise control of the water flow because it lacks a real-time flow indicator. Users must therefore adjust the tap lever by feel, as the device can only be connected with a diverter valve. This makes it impossible to obtain a precisely predictable result.
Excerpt from the book by Karl Heinz Asenbaum, Electroactivated Water – From “Healing Water from the Socket” to Hydrogen Therapy, 10th completely revised edition. (April 2019), pages 255 ff
Price comparison — How much does a Kangen ionizer cost?
Purchasing a Kangen ionizer is a InvestmentHere's an honest breakdown:
One-off costs
- Device: €2.380 (JRII) to €5.480 (Super 501)
- Installation: €0 (simply connect to the tap)
- Optional: Additional water filter (€80 – €200)
Running costs
- Filter change: approx. €180 per year
- Electricity: approx. €15 per year
- Electrolysis water additive (only available at Leveluk): approx. €30 per year
- = approx. €225 per year
Cost per liter of Kangen water
With a usage of 3 liters daily × 365 days = 1.095 liters annually:
- First year: (€3.980 + €225) / 1.095 L = €3,84 per liter
- From year 2 onwards: 225 € / 1.095 L = €0,21 per liter
- Comparison of bottled mineral water: approximately €0,50 per liter
And finally ... From the second year onwards, a Kangen ionizer is included. cheaper than bottled water — with significantly improved water quality.
➡ Tip: Rent an ionizer instead of buying one — AQUACENTRUM offers from €49/month
Experiences with Kangen Water — What do users report?
With over 15 years of experience as a water specialist retailer, we at AQUACENTRUM have spoken with several thousand customers. The most frequent feedback:
User reports (by frequency)
- "I've been drinking much more water for years — it simply tastes better."
- "My skin has become less dry."
- "Digestive problems and heartburn have subsided."
- "Coffee and tea taste more aromatic, less bitter."
- "I'm fitter, I slept better, I have fewer headaches."
What is NOT to be considered an experience
- Weight loss (this only happens if you drink fewer soft drinks and juices!)
- Healing of chronic diseases (Kangen water is) no medication)
- "Immediate" effects — most users report improvements after 2-4 weeks.
⚠️ Disclaimer: The above statements are anecdotal customer testimonials and no scientifically proven effects. Kangen Water is a drinkThis is not a medical device (even though it is medically recognized in Japan). Consult a doctor for any health-related questions.
➡ Read all customer reviews
Frequently Asked Questions about Kangen Water (FAQ)
Is Kangen water really healthy?
Kangen Water contains proven molecular hydrogen (H₂), which has been studied for its antioxidant properties in over 2.000 scientific studies. Its health benefits are recognized in Japan, but in Germany it is considered ordinary drinking water—not a medical product.
How long does Kangen water remain "active"?
The hydrogen content begins to escape immediately after tapping. After 30 minutes, approximately 50% is gone, and after 2 hours almost all of it is gone. The alkaline pH and negative ORP value persist longer (6–12 hours). And finally ... Drink immediately!
Can I boil water in Kangen?
Yes, but the hydrogen escapes during heating. It's still beneficial for coffee/tea because the alkaline pH and smaller clusters are maintained.
Is Kangen water suitable for children?
Yes, at normal drinking concentration (pH 8,5 – 9). pH 9,5 or higher is not recommended for infants and toddlers.
Can Kangen water replace medication?
No. Kangen Water is a beverage, not a medicinal product. Always consult a doctor for serious illnesses.
What is the difference between this and hydrogen tablets?
Tablets often produce higher H₂ concentrations (up to 8.000 ppb), but are not alkaline. Kangen Water is alkaline AND contains hydrogen — but with a lower H₂ content.
Why is Kangen water so expensive?
Enagic distributes in Multi-level marketing (MLM) — A large part of the price is commission for sales partners. Technically comparable devices without MLM cost 30–60% less.
Does the filter really need to be changed annually?
With Enagic warranty: Yes (required). The filter primarily serves to dechlorinate and remove heavy metals. Its capacity is exhausted after 12 months.
Is bottled Kangen water available for purchase?
No, Enagic does not produce bottled water. Kangen water must be... on site from the ionizer be tapped and drunk.
Do I need a Kangen ionizer or is a simple water filter sufficient?
A simple water filter only removes pollutants. An ionizer activated The water is additionally (alkaline, H₂, antioxidant). These are two different things.
Conclusion & Buying Advice
Kangen water is solid premium — but technically outdated.
The truth after 19 years of Aquacentrum experience: Enagic is building extremely durable devices, which still function perfectly after 15+ years. The quality of the electrodes and the workmanship are excellent. But: Technical development at Enagic has largely stagnated since 2005, while other manufacturers such as AquaVolta have developed more modern electrode technology. significantly higher H₂ values Reach them — at half price.
Kangen is worth it if:
- You are already an Enagic sales partner or have access to an MLM network
- You one used SD501 for €1.970 Get it from us with a 5-year guarantee (our insider tip!)
- They appreciate the Japanese brand out of affection
- They think long-term (Enagic devices last 20+ years)
Alternatives are measurably better if:
- You the maximum H₂ content want (1.500 ppb instead of ~800 ppb)
- They antioxidant effect (ORP -950 mV) is important
- you not in MLM want to buy
- to you fair price-performance ratio is important
Our recommendation at AQUACENTRUM
- AquaVolta® ECA Water Tractor NEW for €2.870 — technically superior to the Kangen K8 (1.500 ppb H₂, pH 9,9, ORP -950 mV)
- ECA Water Tractor returns from €2.370 — virtually like new, simply unbeatable in price
- Used Kangen SD501 from €1.970 — incl. 5 years warranty — for those who absolutely want the Japanese brand
- Kangen K8 Leveluk new for €4.700 or rent for €200/month — Premium new purchase
Unsightly? → Free personal consultation with Yasin Akgün — I (Yasin) have spoken with thousands of customers since 2007 and know all the devices personally. I don't recommend "the most expensive one," but the most suitable device for your situation.
📞 Direct contact: +49 (0)89 416117990
✉️ Email: h2@aquacentrum.de
Yasin Akgun -
Dear Wolfram, thank you very much for your very motivating and kind words, see you soon, Yasin
Wolfram Wagner -
Hello Jasin,
I am delighted with the service at Aquacentrum, thank you very much for calling me back and giving me advice. This service is so good that I can only recommend that everyone buy everything to do with water treatment from Aquacentrum. I will definitely do that. Best wishes and have a nice weekend.
LG Wolfram
Smaller -
Hello Yasin
I made the transfer today.
As discussed, here is the screenshot.
Of course I'm happy to accept the booster as a gift.
Ps: I'm really impressed with your service.
Keep it up!
Thank you and have a nice weekend.
Greetings, Manya