Deionized water systems play a pivotal role in automotive care, particularly for enthusiasts and professionals seeking to achieve a showroom-quality finish without the risk of water spots or mineral deposits.
To aid in your quest for the perfect deionized water system for car maintenance, we have embarked on an exhaustive testing and evaluation process, ensuring that our recommendations are grounded in professional expertise and real-world application.
Our testing process included three main factors
- TDS Removal: Deionization systems reduce water’s mineral salt content, affecting car paint, with a filtration capacity of 2500 to 4500 solids per refill.
- Storage: Treated water is stored in pressure-maintained tanks to ensure availability and purity for car washing, often arranged in series for enhanced purification.
- Flow Rate: Essential for car washes, the system’s flow rate ranges from 0.5 to 1.5 gallons per minute to match water consumption and treatment efficiency, avoiding untreated water output.
In this article, we have presented 9 best deionized water systems for cars that only deliver exceptional performance but also offer convenience and value for money. Apart from the product listing, we have also provided a comprehensive “Buying Guide” that explores the nuances of deionized water systems in detail.
Best Deionized Water System For Car Washing
| Best Deionized Water System For Car Washing | Water Treatment | Flow Rate | Number of Filters | Buy Now |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AQUATICLIFE Deionized Water System For Car | 1800 to 2000 particles | 0.75 gallons per minute | 2 | Check On Amazon |
| CR Spotless Deionized Water System For Car | 300 gallons of water | --- | 2 | Check On Amazon |
| WaterSentinel Deionized Water System For Car | --- | 0.5 gallons per minute | 2 | Check On Amazon |
| Unger Deionized Water System For Car | --- | 1 | Check On Amazon | |
| CR Spotless DI-120 Deionized Water System For Car | 75 to 1000 gallons | --- | 1 | Check On Amazon |
| APEC Deionized Water System For Car | 120 to 1200 gallons | --- | 2 | Check On Amazon |
| Simple Deionized Water System For Car CR | 400 gallons | --- | 2 | Check On Amazon |
| Adam's Deionized Water System For Car CR | 1120 gallons | --- | 1 | Check On Amazon |
| The Clean Garage Deionized Water System For Car CR | --- | --- | 1 | Check On Amazon |
Best Deionized Water System For Car Washing Reviews
1. AQUATICLIFE Deionized Water System For Car
Aquaticlife has been around in the filtration system market for over 40+ years. By using this experience, it has developed a high-quality range of products.
The Aquaticlife Deionized Unit For Car Washing has a simple configuration. It has two cartridges that start the deionization process as soon as the water is let in from the inlet. The resins in the cartridge are capable of removing 1,800 to 2,000 dissolved solids each time before replacing the resin. The system is capable of supplying treated water at a rate of 0.75 gallons per minute.
The process leads to the purification of water and helps in eliminating any type of spots on the surface after drying. The raisin changes color over time, indicating replacement. To support the setup, a mounting bracket is also provided. One male and female brass hose adapter come with this system to help in connecting the hose to the water outlet.
Best Features
- Total dissolved solids removal capacity of 1800 to 2000 particles
- Dual raisin setup for effective deionization
- One male and female brass adapter of size ½-inch
- The flow rate of water is 0.75 gallons per minute
- Installation guide with maintenance and operation tips
Pros
- The change in color of the raisin helps in scheduling the replacement of the cartridge
- The filtration process is fast and water is available on the go
- The price of this unit is low
Cons
- The high dissolved solid content in water leads to shorter lifespans of the filter
2. CR Spotless Deionized Water System For Car
CR Spotless Water Systems manufactures filtration systems. These systems are built in a way to offer maximum output without compromising quality.
The CR Spotless DIC-20 Water System is capable of deionizing the water. The filters can treat up to 300 gallons of water before needing to be replaced. The dual 20-inch deionization cartridge helps in the delivery of treated water on the go. The whole unit is battery operated and hence eliminates the need for external power.
The water system is fitted on a rolling cart that has a rust-resistant powder coating. It helps in transporting the water system wherever needed. A stainless steel pipe is provided to connect water with the system. To make the installation and repair work easy, a wrench is also provided. The nozzle at the outlet helps in maintaining the pressure of the water jet.
Best Features
- The water treatment capacity of 300 gallons of water
- Two filter cartridges of 20-inch size
- Dual battery-operated system
- Nozzle for maintaining water pressure
- Rolling cart with anti-rust coating
Pros
- The system needs no external power
- Transportation of the system is easy due to the rolling cart
- The unit comes with a 1-year warranty
Cons
- The price of the water system is high than other options
3. WaterSentinel Deionized Water System For Car
Being one of the pioneers in water filtration technologies, Water Sentinel knows how to manufacture a good product. Its filtration systems can deliver high-quality water.
The Water Sentinel SF-20W Deionized Water System is one of the heavy-duty systems. It has a reusable cartridge that helps in filtering the water on the go. The flow rate of 0.5 or more gallons per minute helps in maintaining a continuous water supply. The dual filter raisin setup can be used 20 times before needing a replacement.
To connect the water outlet to the system inlet, standard 3/4-inch threading is provided on the hose adapter. This adapter helps in connecting the 8-inch long hose to allow water to flow towards the system. The filter raisin is capable of absorbing mineral salts, sand, and any type of dirt.
Best Features
- Flow rate above 0.5 gallons per minute is achieved
- The two resin cartridges can be used 20 times before needing to be replaced
- Standard ¾-inch threaded adapter
- 8-inch long brass braided hose
Pros
- The water system efficiently absorbs dissolved minerals as well as any sand particles
- The lightweight construction of the water system helps in moving it anywhere
- Adjustable nozzle setting offers different jet patterns and reduces loss of water
Cons
- The unit does not absorb chlorine effectively due to the absence of KDF filter media
4. Unger Deionized Water System For Car
Unger has been around in the professional cleaning product market. By keeping the consumer’s needs at the topmost priority, Unger can produce an innovative product range that offers standard quality.
The Unger Rinse ‘n’ Go deionization Filter is developed by keeping professional applications in mind. This unit can easily remove mineral salts and other impurities on the go. A TDS meter is fitted onto the body to get details about dissolved solids in the input water. The input water supply is connected to the deionization system with the help of an 8-feet long hose.
For the deionization process, the storage tank contains a bag full of filter raisins. These raisins react with water and convert the regular water to a more pure form. A nozzle is also provided to spray the water with accurate pressure. The overall construction of this system is lightweight and helps in transporting it from one place to the other.
Best Features
- Deionization water system with raisin bags
- TDS meter to check the dissolved solid level in the water
- 8-feet long hose to connect the water supply
- Soap nozzle for setting water pressure at the outlet and adding washing soap
Pros
- Lightweight construction makes it easy to position the unit anywhere
- The unit can deionize water quickly
- The treated water is so pure that the washed surface dries without creating washing spots
Cons
- Resin bags need to be replaced frequently in case of hard water input
5. CR Spotless DI-120 Deionized Water System For Car
Another option from the wider portfolio of CR Spotless products has made it to the list. This option is the smaller sibling of the previously mentioned CR Spotless DIC-20 model.
The CR Spotless DI-120 Deionized Water System works similarly to the other CR Spotless models. It deionizes the regular water and turns the mineral-rich water into a pure one. This model used only one cartridge and hence it is small in size. The 20-inch cartridge consists of raisins that help in absorbing the mineral salts during the deionization process.
The raisin can treat 200 gallons of water before the need for replacement arises. This water system can handle water with a total dissolved solids amount of 200 ppm. The TDS meter can detect these solids’ saturation in the water and display the same. The whole assembly is fitted on a stand that helps in positioning the water system anywhere.
Best Features
- 20-inch resin cartridge
- Treats 200 gallons of water of TDS level 200ppm
- The whole assembly mounted on an integrated stand
- Battery-powered TDS meter to track the solid saturation in water
- Stainless steel pipe for the water inlet
Pros
- Resin cartridge can filter 75 to 1000 gallons of water
- The nozzle helps in adjusting the required pressure for cleaning the car
- This model comes with a 1-year warranty
Cons
- A single unit of resin filter tends to degrade quickly
6. APEC Deionized Water System For Car
APEC develops water filtration systems by working on the commonly faced problems by the users. The products address these problems and help in the treatment of water efficiently.
The APEC CWS-300 Water Deionization System offers an advanced deionization process. It can separate dissolved solids at the molecular level and turns regular water into a pure one. The dual set of 20-inch DI filters efficiently treats the water and eliminates every mineral from the water. The water system can deionize water with TDS ranging from 50 to 500 ppm easily.
The filters can churn out 120 to 1200 gallons of treated water in their lifetime depending on the TDS level of water. The adapter size is standard ¾-inch and can fit a standard hose to connect the water supply to the deionizing system. The unit can withstand a maximum water temperature of 100-degree Fahrenheit. The nozzles can deliver a maximum pressure of 90 psi. This unit is assembled over a moveable stand that allows positioning of the system anywhere.
Best Features
- Dual DI filters of 20-inch size
- TDS handling capacity of 50 to 500 ppm
- Filtration efficiency of 120 to 1200 gallons of water
- Standard ¾-inch adapters compatible with hose of the same size
- Maximum water pressure of 90 psi
Pros
- The unit can handle hot water up to 100-degree Fahrenheit temperature
- Mounting stand with wheels for easy positioning of the water system
- The water leaves no limescale on the car body surface
Cons
- The water system is heavy
7. Simple Deionized Water System For Car CR
Simple Chuck is the sub-brand of CR Spotless. It carries the same spirit as the CR Spotless brand. The product lineup is developed with a portable design to help you carry it anywhere.
Simple Chuck Deionized Water System is also based on the CR Spotless models. It uses a resin cartridge to filter the dissolved minerals from water. The filter can treat 400 gallons of water during its lifetime. It is 23-inches tall and 16-inch wide. The depth of this unit is 10-inches. Maximum pressure of 70 psi can be supplied through this water system. The resin filter is recyclable and helps in minimizing waste.
The filter is provided with a color-changing system. When the life of filters starts to decrease or comes to an end, the color changes. The outer casing of the water system is made up of stainless steel that offers good strength to the assembly. To easily carry the deionizer system, a foldable handle is provided. To make the water system portable, wheels are also attached to its base.
Best Features
- Maximum solid removal capacity of 400 gallons of water
- The permissible pressure of water is 70 psi
- The dimension of the unit is 23-inch tall, 26-inch in width, and a depth of 10-inches
- Color changing filter to track the remaining life
- Foldable handle and wheels for easy transportation
Pros
- The water system does require an external power supply
- The resin filters are recyclable and hence do not burden the environment
- This model is covered with a 1-year warranty
Cons
- The water system is priced higher than other options
8. Adam’s Deionized Water System For Car CR
Adam Polishes is a manufacturer of detailing accessories for automobiles. By using two decades of experience, it can make water filtration products that a consumer can easily use.
The Adam Polish Water Deionizer System is one of the power fill options on the list. It uses a higher grade of filter resin that absorbs mineral and chemical molecules from regular water. It can filter about 1,120 gallons of water before refilling the resin again. The system can handle 100 ppm of TDS easily and produces water with 0 dissolved solids. A TDS meter is provided to monitor the dissolved solid level in the supplied water.
The deionizer system is over 22-inch tall and has a diameter of 9.5-inches. To connect the 4-inch water hose to the deionized water system, standard 5/8-inch adapters are provided. It has a bypass valve to divert water when filtration is not needed. A 20lbs resin bag is also provided to refill the deionizer. To easily carry the unit a nylon handle is fitted on the body.
Best Features
- High-grade resin filter
- Filtering capacity of 1120 gallons of water
- TDS removal up to 100 ppm
- 20lbs resin bag for refilling process
- ⅝-inch threaded adapter and 4-inch long water hose
Pros
- The nylon handle helps in carrying the deionizing system with ease
- The bypass valve diverts the flow of water when filtration is not needed, saving the filtering efforts
- The system is capable of delivering water with zero dissolved solids
Cons
- Since only one filter is used, the lifespan of the filer is less
9. The Clean Garage Deionized Water System For Car CR
Clean Garage is also a manufacturer of automotive detailing accessories. It has a range of portable products that are easy to carry and offers the same performance as the car wash of a service station.
The Clean Garage Deionized Water System is a compact unit. This water system uses mixed bed DI resin to deionize the water. It absorbs every particle of mineral salt and turns the water into a pure form. This water leaves no scaling on the car body after drying. A TDS meter is used to monitor the dissolved solid level in the water.
This water system has a bypass valve that diverts flow away from the filters. This helps in restricting flow to the resin filter bed when deionized water is not needed. The unit has a standard adapter that can be connected to the same size hose.
Best Features
- Compact deionizing water system
- Mixed bed DI resin cartridge
- TDS meter to monitor dissolved solid level
- Standard size adapter and hose
Pros
- The bypass valve helps in diverting water when deionized water is not needed
- The water does not leave any residue on the cleaned surface, after drying
- The compact design helps in storing the water system anywhere
Cons
- This unit lacks an aggressive price tag
Buying Guide For The Best Deionized Water System For Car Washing
The normal water cleans the dirt off the car body but using it might have side effects too. Hence a water deionization system helps in keeping the water quality to a level that is suitable for a car body. A detailed list of such deionized water systems was discussed thoroughly. Since some factors affect the overall performance of a deionizing water system, this buying guide will address them one by one.
1. TDS Removal Capacity
The dissolved solids in regular water are mostly mineral salts. The total count of these dissolved solids in a liter of water is known as total dissolved solids (TDS). These salts cause an increase in the acidic level of the water. Such water may react with the body paint and leave dirt traces on the surface. The deionization system removes this solid content and improves the purity of water. Every system cleans a set amount of solids before changing the filter. The normal TDS removal capacity of a deionizing system ranges between 2500 to 4500 solid particles per refill.
2. Storage
After the deionization process, the treated water needs to be stored separately. Car washing needs a large amount of treated water. The storage tank must possess a good capacity to make water available when in need. Storage also helps in keeping the treated water away from getting impure. To allow a strong water force at the outlet, the storage is responsible to keep water under pressure. Storage tanks are kept in a series to allow multiple deionization stages on the water.
3. Flow Rate
As mentioned earlier, car washing involves high water consumption. The water nozzle must receive a continuous water flow to maintain the set pressure rate. The water treatment must happen simultaneously with the flow rate. A higher flow rate and lower deionization rate lead to the release of untreated water from the nozzle. The rate is set at 0.5 gallons per minute and can be increased to 1.5 gallons per minute, depending on the system’s capacity.
4. Type Of Deionization
In the deionization process, regular water is passed through a series of resin beds. The resins can be cation (carries positive charge) or anion (carries negative charge). The solid particle being minerals tends to get attracted toward the charged resins and gets trapped, while pure water flows away. Various types of deionization processes are offered by water systems.
The weak deionization process happens when the resins consist of more acid cations and fewer base anions. Strong base ionization has the base anions quantity more than acidic cations. The mix bed deionization comprises a 60:40 ratio of acid cations and base anions. The ratio helps in maintaining the hardness of water and helps in increasing or decreasing the deionization process.
Deionized Water System – FAQs
Ans: A deionized water system for cars removes minerals and impurities from water, preventing water spots and deposits on vehicles after washing.
Ans: Deionized water prevents the formation of water spots and mineral deposits, ensuring a spotless finish and protecting the car’s paint.
Ans: Most systems are designed for easy installation, often requiring just a connection to your water source and hose, with no professional help needed.
Ans: Yes, deionized water is excellent for cleaning windows, solar panels, and other surfaces sensitive to water spots.
Ans: The lifespan varies based on water usage and the system’s capacity, with many systems offering easy replacement of deionization cartridges.
Ans: Absolutely, deionized water is safe and beneficial for all car surfaces, including paint, glass, and chrome.
Ans: Minimal maintenance is required, mainly involving cartridge replacement once the system’s effectiveness diminishes.
Ans: Some systems have indicators for cartridge life, or you may notice a decrease in water quality and effectiveness.
Ans: Yes, many deionized water systems are compatible with pressure washers, enhancing their cleaning effectiveness.
Ans: The primary ongoing cost is the replacement of deionization cartridges, dependent on the frequency of use and the system’s capacity.
Ans: Yes, deionized water is safer for metallic pipes as it lacks the mineral salts that cause corrosion, making it a better choice to prevent pipe damage.
Conclusion
We’ve reviewed several deionized water systems for car washing, highlighting the advantages over using regular water. Our top selections include:
- APEC Deionized Water System: Versatile with dual filters for water with 50 to 500 ppm TDS, treating 120 to 1200 gallons and supporting up to 90 psi and 100 degrees Fahrenheit water. Its mobility is enhanced by wheels and a stand.
- CR Spotless DI-120 Deionized Water System: Offers efficient single-cartridge filtration for water over 200 ppm TDS, treating up to 200 gallons. It features a TDS meter and presents great value for its price.
- WaterSentinel Deionized Water System: Budget-friendly, with two reusable cartridges and a consistent flow rate, it easily connects to hoses and allows for pressure adjustment, making it an economical choice without compromising quality.
