Media Options

Choose the neutralizing media that best fits your water chemistry and pH correction needs:

Option 1 — Pure Calcite

Calcite is a naturally occurring calcium carbonate mineral that slowly dissolves into acidic water, raising pH to a neutral or slightly alkaline level. It is a self-limiting media — as pH rises to the neutral range, dissolution slows, preventing over-correction. Calcite is ideal for mildly to moderately acidic water (pH 6.0–6.8) and is the most common choice for residential acid neutralization.

• Best For: Mildly to moderately acidic water (pH ~6.0–6.8)
• Raises pH by: Introducing calcium carbonate (slight hardness increase)
• Self-Limiting: Yes — reduces risk of over-correction
• Backwash Required: Yes, to prevent compaction and refresh media bed

Option 2 — Calcite / Corosex Blend

Corosex (magnesium oxide) is a more aggressive neutralizing media that raises pH faster and more effectively than Calcite alone. When blended with Calcite, Corosex provides enhanced pH correction for more severely acidic water while the Calcite moderates the reaction to prevent excessive over-correction. This blend is the preferred choice for water with lower pH levels or where faster correction is needed.

• Best For: More severely acidic water (pH ~5.5–6.5)
• Raises pH by: Introducing calcium carbonate and magnesium hydroxide
• More Aggressive: Corrects pH faster than Calcite alone
• Blending Ratio: Typically 80/20 or 90/10 Calcite/Corosex (adjustable based on water chemistry)
• Backwash Required: Yes — Corosex is lighter and benefits from regular backwashing to prevent clumping

Media Comparison at a Glance

How It Works

Acidic water enters the tank and flows down through the neutralizing media bed. As the water contacts the Calcite (and Corosex, if selected), a controlled chemical reaction raises the pH toward neutral. The treated water exits through the distributor at the bottom and is delivered throughout your home. Over time, the media is consumed and must be periodically replenished. The automatic backwash cycle lifts and re-classifies the media bed, preventing compaction and flushing away fine particles to maintain optimal flow and contact time.

Note: Acid neutralizers will increase water hardness slightly due to the addition of calcium (and magnesium with Corosex). In areas with already hard water, pairing this system with a water softener downstream may be recommended. A water test is advised to determine the correct media choice and tank size for your specific water conditions.