Zoss FAQ's
What is a Zoss Water Appliance? Zoss Water appliance is the latest advancement in drinking water technology, Zoss Water appliances produces 5 different types of water, pH 9.5 alkaline water is delicious and energizing, created from Zoss NUC with ACE innovative water technology. Zoss Water appliances produces 5 different types of water and can be used for various purposes, including drinking, cooking, beauty, and cleaning.
What is Zoss NUC? Zoss NUC is the heart of the Zoss Water appliance, this is where the process of electrolysis happens resulting in energizing and delicious Zoss Water!
What is Advanced Computational Electrolysis.(ACE)? To ensure the values of ph & orp are consistent, the microcomputer of the Zoss Water appliance uses Advanced Computational Electrolysis (ACE) technology powered by a SMPS that delivers consistent performance and enhances the durability of the appliance.
Will the pH and ORP of The Zoss Water change when heated or refrigerated? The state of the water does change when the Zoss Water is heated or chilled. When heated, the ORP and pH changes. When chilled, the ORP will change but the pH will remain the same for up to a week based on the quality of inlet water.
What does Zoss Water sometimes have an odour or smell? Inlet water has minerals in it1. Zoss Water appliances are designed to handle a standard amount of minerals. When the amount of minerals or free carbon dioxide2 is greater than usual, the minerals occasionally react with the anti-bacterial feature3 of the water supply Zoss hose, giving off a certain odour or smell. We have designed the antibacterial 3Zoss Hose for such instances. When running water through the appliance for the first time, please set it on purified water and let it run for two to three minutes longer than usual. 1.Minerals - Ca (calcium), Mg (Magnesium), Na (Sodium), Ka (Potassium) and other nutrients found in food and water. Minerals found in water are said to be especially good for the health in optimum amounts. 2.Free carbon dioxide - Carbon Dioxide is found in water. Some people prefer the taste of water with carbon dioxide, which tends to have lower pH levels. Water with less carbon dioxide is said to be better for the health. 3.Anti-Bacterial Zoss – Zoss Water appliances that produce water for human consumption are given anti-bacterial treatment. These appliances often comprise of many different parts, and it is especially important that the parts like Zoss Nuc, Zoss Hose, where water passes through are not contaminated or polluted.
Can Zoss Water be used to take Medication? Zoss Water is intended for everyday drinking and cooking rather than for drinking with medication. We highly recommend the following directions: 1. Do not take medication with Zoss Water appliance produced water. 2. Do not drink appliance-produced water if you have anaciditas. 3. We suggest to seek help from a doctor if you feel an abnormality in the body, or continued intake does not appear to improve symptoms. This is because the effectiveness of medication using alkaline ionized water such as Zoss Water has not yet been tested. The pH level of stomach acids is about 1.8ph, and medication is prescribed in accordance to this pH level in order for it to take effect past the stomach. Therefore, to ensure full effect of the medication, we recommend leaving sometime between taking the medication and drinking Zoss Water. Its recommended to take medication with filtered water instead of Zoss Water. Anaciditas - This symptom, also known as gastric acholrhydria, is found in people with a stomach acidity higher than the average human ph level of 1.8 pH. This makes it harder for them to digest food. These people should not drink alkaline Zoss Water®.
What about differences in quality of Raw Water like Well Water? The kind of inlet water used affects the quality of Zoss Water, and acidic water produced by electrolysis. Although water produced with potable municipal city water is not affected, the efficiency of electrolysis drops when well water is used since it tends to hold a lot of free carbon dioxide1, as well as in cases where water comprising only a small amount of electrolytic minerals is used. On the other hand, in cases where the water has excess minerals, the taste may be affected, or Zoss Water produced may be too high in pH level. Since the water pressure of the faucet affects the production of water, it is important to confirm that Zoss Water is being produced with correct pH values by regularly checking that it is set at the correct pH levels. In order to take into account the differences in the quality of the original tap water, it is recommended to run a check on a weekly on a monthly basis. • Free Carbon Dioxide - Carbon Dioxide found in water. Some people prefer the taste of water with carbon dioxide, which tends to have lower pH levels. Water with less carbon dioxide is said to be better for the health.
What are the benefits of consuming Zoss Water? The benefits of consuming Zoss Water are the high pH it contains with reduced oxidation potential and the optimal hydration it offers in every glass of Zoss Water.
What is Mengen Effect of consuming Zoss Water? Factoring on how much Zoss Water is consumed, and on the individual's physical state, it is possible (although uncommon) to experience constipation or diarrhoea a few days to a few weeks after first starting to drink it. In herbal terms this is known as the Mengen effect1. The two conditions are particularly similar in that both cases, the remedy is so effective that it has a negative effect. If this occurs, the amount of intake should be reduced to half or a fourth of the previous amount until symptoms clear. Once symptoms have subsided, it is okay to resume intake. However, increasing the amount of intake will not alleviate the symptoms. Since halting intake completely may also affect the body, it is best to continue intake, but in lesser amounts. If there are no signs of improvement, please consult a doctor. Mengen effect - It is a natural physical response, where the body tries to go back to normal after muscles and bones have been adjusted.
What is Acidic Water? Acidic water has a pH of around 5.5-6.5. just like the pH of our skin. Astringent - Acidic water works as an astringent for toning your skin. 'Astringent water' refers to acidic water.
How do I use Zoss Water for Skin Care? Because winter air is cold and dry, skin care is especially important during this time. Without taking care of your skin properly, you may suffer from dry and rough skin. Bodily fluids play an important role in maintaining your body temperature and the health of your skin. Drinking alkaline and ionized Zoss Water can help maintain glowing, smooth skin. Since it is important to maintain your skin's pH level between 5.0 and 6.0, we recommend spraying acidic water on your skin at regular intervals throughout the day. During the winter, bathing in acidic water can help preserve the moisture of your skin. We also recommend that you eat foods and fruits that include high levels of vitamin C, A and E. Treating your skin with acidic water will let you enjoy life even more by giving you smooth and youthful skin. Acidic water - Acidic ionized water produced by electrolysis with a pH between 4.0 and 6.5. Its astringent effect is excellent for skin and beauty care.
What is the proper method of storage of Zoss Water & how long do the PH and ORP values last? Among the five types of water produced by Zoss Water appliance, the two types for drinking (purified water/alkaline water pH 9.5) must be used fresh. Please keep these two types of water in the refrigerator for no more than 4-5 days and replace the water in your take-out bottle every day. For water used for domestic purposes, including Acidic Water, less care is required, but we recommend changing your supply once a week. To store, please place the water in a lightproof container1, fill it to the very top to avoid unnecessary contact with air, and store it in a cool, dark place (the refrigerator is ideal). Conditions like temperature and carbon dioxide affect the pH and ORP values of Zoss Water. Lightproof container - Container that keeps light out. Preferably glass material.
What is the proper amount/method of drinking water produced from Zoss Water Appliance? It is most common to begin by setting a low ph1 level (between ph8 and ph9.0), and gradually increasing the amount of intake. After continuing regular intake for about two weeks, gradually adjust the pH level and amount of intake (between ph9.0-ph9.5) based on your bodily needs and physical condition. The Zoss Water should be as fresh as possible. For children or seniors, set the pH level at an even lower level upon starting, and gradually increase it as the body adjusts to the current pH level. In the case of infants (until about a year old), since breast milk or milk is the only thing they consume, the intestinal movement is generally different from adults, and the use of Zoss Water is not encouraged until the infant begins to consume more sophisticated foods. In any case, Zoss Water®should not be used to make powdered milk for infants. 1 pH - The logarithm of the reciprocal of hydrogen-ion concentration in gram atoms per liter. It is used as a measure of the acidity or alkalinity of a solution on a scale of 0-14 (where 7 is neutral). There are no set of rules regarding how to drink Zoss Water or how much to consume. However, its best we consume Zoss Water in moderation atleast 6-8 times a day.
Why is the Zoss Water appliance or Zoss Seca filters leaking? It is most likely that the ring (stopper) on the Bowls came off during transportation, or that the Zoss cartridge is not placed in properly. It is unlikely that the leaking has been caused by a mechanical fault in the appliance. Zoss Seca filters – Sediment and carbon filters used before Zoss Water appliance.
How do I use the Zoss Hose? Zoss Hose is a 360 degrees movement capable hose. Two types of water run through the Zoss Water appliance, and Zoss Water will be produced only when the two run at a fixed ratio. If the discharge hose is bent, or the stand is positioned higher than the bottom tip of the flexible pipe, acidic water cannot be produced properly. In turn, stretching the hose below the sink to collect water in a separate container will result in loss of Zoss Water.
How do you use the Reset Switch? As the Zoss Membranes reaches to a consumption level of closer to 8000L, Zoss Water appliance starts making a beeping sound and the colour of LED changes to yellow indicating a Zoss Membrane change is required. There is a rectangular reset button situated under the LED on the front-right of the appliance. Please make sure to push this button (it should make a beeping sound) when replacing the filter. This allows for the correct display on the LED of all the information stored in the Zoss Water microcomputer. This reset button must be pushed in order for information to be displayed on the LED screen. It notifies the user when there is too much or too little water, sets off an alarm when automatic cleaning of the appliance is happening, informs you to monitor the water flow, and shows the various pH and ORP levels, by using the reset switch correctly on the Zoss Water , you insure the delivery of safe and healthy water.
How do you use the +- and Function Switch? Zoss Water appliance gives you the option of customising the pH values as per your choice. To increase or decrease the pH, press function button for 2 seconds to enable the factory mode and change the pH and ORP settings accordingly.
How many years does the Zoss NUC remain effective? The electrode plate of Zoss NUC is solid and not meshed, it is usually thicker and larger than other companies products. The appliance is designed this way in order to increase electrolysis capacity and durability. Another important reason is to guarantee the production of maximum volumes of water. The electrode plates are Japanese, are made of the very highest-quality titanium, plated with platinum. Needless to say, due to this choice of materials, the electrode plates are completely rustproof. Zoss NUC is to a Zoss Water appliance what the heart is to a human being. We can recommend our products with the utmost confidence because we use only the best materials. Zoss NUC and advanced computational electrolysis (ACE)1 secures a high ORP2, and produces safe, healthy and delicious Zoss Water. The automatic cleaning mechanism ensures that the Zoss NUC is clean, hence all our models carry a warranty of 7 years on Zoss NUC for residential purposes. • Advanced computation electrolysis (ACE) – Ensuring Zoss Water appliances produce consistent pH and ORP values. • ORP(Oxidation Reduction Potential) - Electrical potential needed to reduce or slow down rusting and decay(oxidization).This process is also known as deoxidization.ORP is measured in terms of negative mvs.The ideal ORP level for the human body is said to be between - 150mv and - 400mv.
What should I do when I notice a built-up of white clusters in my water? Small amounts of minerals are found in water (tap water/sewage water). During electrolysis, minerals become concentrated on the minus side of the electrolysis circuit, causing clusters to attach to the electrode plate. Zoss NUC can remove the clusters by reversing the polarity, but sometimes these clusters fall off as a natural process. When you pour this water into a stainless container or glass, the clusters stick to the bottom and sides. It is difficult to remove these clusters by scraping with metallic objects, etc. Instead, please pour vinegar into the container and leave it for 12 to 15 hours. You could substitute citric acid1 for vinegar if you like. These clusters are not harmful even if consumed, so please do not worry. Furthermore, if you set the appliance on acidic water, and let the water run for two to three minutes, you can decrease the amount of minerals significantly. Please clean containers that you put Zoss Water in at least once every three months by the above mentioned method. Citric acid - Citric acid is extracted from apples. It has the ability to dissolve clusters of minerals such as Calcium and Magnesium. An ideal and safe way of cleaning water production appliances is to circulate citric acid through the appliance.
How is the Zoss Water appliance cleaned? Zoss Water has its own automatic cleaning system. The amount of minerals in the supply water, such as Calcium and Magnesium can vary greatly, and mineral1 clusters inevitably stick to the electrode plates inside the Zoss NUC. They can be broken off, however, easily by reversing the electric current (switching the +,-polarity). Mineral clusters attached to the electrode plate decrease the electrolysis capacity of the appliance, resulting in a failure to produce primary ionized and alkaline Zoss Water. The amount of minerals attached to the electrolysis cell varies according to the quantity of minerals in the tap water. Zoss Water's automatic cleaning mechanism is activated for 20 seconds when continual electrolysis reaches 15 minutes, this is automated by the Zoss micro computer. When using Zoss Water in areas where the water has a high mineral content, change the setting to acidic water and turn on the tap slightly so the water is running gently. This will reverses the electric current and remove the crystals in the electrolysis cell after 2-3 minutes. Changing the setting to "acidic water" once a day for 30 seconds is another way to clean the electrolysis cell. The cleaning function is necessary to maximize the life span of the Zoss NUC. • Minerals - Ca (calcium), Mg (Magnesium), Na (Sodium), Ka (Potassium) and other nutrients found in food and water. Minerals found in water are said to be especially good for the health in optimum amounts.
What if there's no Zoss Membrane replacement notice even after a year? The display screen on the Zoss Water will notify you when the total volume of water produced reaches 8000 Liters. It is highly recommended to change the Zoss Membrane after 8000 Liters consumption or 1 year of service, whichever is earlier. The microcomputer controls this notification, please make sure to press the reset switch to activate the microcomputer when you put in a new filter. Do call the Zoss care team if you have not changed the Zoss Membrane even after a year of usage.
What is the difference between Zoss Water's NUC and Process of other companies? Electrolysis of water requires high quality electrolysis plates, and the size, thickness, and number of the plates becomes crucial in maintaining durability. The "double cross line" method1 used by other companies has the appliance's overall durability in mind. In these appliances, two small electrolysis cells are used in turn to provide resting time, but this limits the volume of water than can be produced at one time. Some other brands also use synthetic minerals and calcium cartridges, which can reduce the quality of water produced by the appliance. On the other hand, Zoss Water appliance has 3,5 or 7(custom) electrolysis plates, the largest number in the industry, and while maintaining durability via their large surface area and thickness, they allow the appliance to produce large volumes of water (maximum Zoss Water: 2-4.5L/minute). Every function, such as supplying voltage according to switching of the pH setting and producing acidic water in the same Zoss NUC, is carefully monitored by the microcomputer. It ensures that the appliance can be used safely for a long period of time. We recommend that you produce Acidic Water once a day for at least three minutes to improve the appliance's durability.
How does the automatic draining system work? Zoss Water is equipped with an automatic water-draining system that prevents contamination and proliferation of germs in residue water. The automatic water draining system is activated once the water stops. It takes approximately 30 seconds for all water in the electrolysis cell, water purification cartridge, and all channels to be drained through the Zoss hose and acidic water outlet(gray). Please note that the automatic water draining system is activated when the water level drops, and positioning the Zoss Hose higher than the base of the appliance for any reason (pooling of acidic water in the tank, hanging the hose from a rack because of its length) may result in a failure to discharge residue water. Leaving water behind may cause problems with taste and smell. Please be sure to have the Zoss Hose hose lower than the appliance before turning the tap off.
The Zoss Hose is not alllowing for smooth flow of water. What should I do? When the original tap water supply is high in minerals (most often seen with well water), a large amount of crystals are formed in the Zoss NUC. If this progresses, chunks of crystals can become stuck in the net before the Zoss Hose, obstructing the water outflow. In order to remove this clog, poke the area with a piece of wire and blow air into the Zoss Hose. Water flow can also become restricted when the appliance is due for a deep cleaning.
What are the changes to the Zoss Water outlet as a result of Switching Water Production Mode? Electrolyzing water produces Zoss Water (alkaline) on the negative pole and acidic water on the positive pole. Zoss Water is designed so that the flexible Zoss Hose attached to the top is connected to the negative electrolysis cell, while the discharge (gray) pipe, attached to the base of the Zoss Water appliance, is connected to the positive electrolysis cell. For this reason, Zoss Water comes out of the Zoss hose, and acidic water comes out of the discharge pipe(gray). Of the four production modes, when the appliance is set on the "Acidic water" mode, the electric current is reversed, as it is done for cleaning, so acidic water comes out the flexible Zoss hose and acidic water comes out the discharge pipe (gray). This is the only time the waters are discharged on the opposite ends. Since the acidic mode reverses polarity, it has the effect of breaking off calcium crystals attached to the negative pole and can be used as a manual cleaning mode.
What is the Oxidation-Reduction-Potential(ORP)? The oxidation reduction potential1 is the electrical potential needed to reduce or slow down oxidation such as rusting. Zoss Water must have a negative ORP in order to be considered good, especially for drinking. ORP is the strength to bond with active oxygen2 reducing power, and can be measured through electronic designs in the hardware. Although a negative value is desirable for deoxidization power, the actual value varies from region to region. For example, in Mumbai city, tap water records an ORP of +580-600mv, but after using Zoss Water, the ORP becomes ph9.5 and records the ideal from -150mv to -400mv. When the original water supply's ORP increases, the ORP of Zoss Water moves in direct proportion. In states like Tamil Nadu, Zoss Water is capable of producing water with negative levels of ORP at ph9.5 even where original water supply marks the highest positive levels of ORP. • 1 Oxidation-reduction potential (ORP) - Electrical potential needed to reduce or slow down rusting and decay (oxidization). This process is also known as deoxidization. ODR is measures in terms of negative mvs. The ideal ODR level for the human body is said to be between -150mv and -400mv. • 1 Active oxygen - Also known as free radicals. Medically it is known to enter the body on a daily basis or when the diet goes astray when under stress. It is the type of oxygen that causes illness and aging. Maintaining a daily rhythm will help keep this oxygen from entering your body!
Can Zoss Water be used Overseas? Zoss Water is made to be used in India. When using Zoss Water in other countries, it must be adjusted to the particular voltage (110V-240V) and water quality of the country. Since there are few countries where you can drink tap water straight from the tap, and many countries where the water has extremely high calcium content, we recommend selecting a Zoss SeCa or Zoss TDSC filter that suits the country.
Why doesn't Zoss Water turn the PH testing solution to blue or purple? Zoss Water produces a yellow/green color (neutral reading) in pH testing solutions even if it made on the setting for ph 9.5. This phenomenon is often observed in areas where well water is used. Even water that tests neutral has been through the electrolytic process and has the benefits. This is caused by the carbon dioxide in well water, which is produced from decomposing organic matter. Carbon dioxide readily dissolves in water, making it acidic. Water with carbon dioxide can be electrolyzed, however, the carbon dioxide is neutralized during the process. Therefore the water tests neutral on the pH scale. Driving out the carbon dioxide from Zoss Water will result in the Zoss Water expressing blue in pH test liquid. When measuring the pH using a pH testing solution, place a few drops in the flask before pouring in freshly made Zoss Water®. There is carbon dioxide in your Zoss Water® if the color turns blue initially, but eventually turns yellow. Also check for the input pressure reading on the LED of Zoss Water appliance. We highly recommend the following water pressure levels for effective usage of the appliance and its durability.
Some white bits are floating in the Zoss Water. What are they? Your original tap water supply always contains some minerals. Especially in places with hard water conditions and TDS above 200 ppm, these minerals attach onto the electrolysis plates inside the Zoss NUC and some break off into the water. Although they look like foreign substances, there is no harm in drinking these mineral clusters. In order to prevent the mineral clusters from falling into the water, we recommend changing the setting to "acidic water mode" (reverse polarity) and increase the pressure and quantity of water once or twice a day for 3-4 minutes to clean out the appliance. Because of the caustic lime1 situation, we recommend people living in the hard water areas to use the Zoss SeCa-filter2 or Zoss TDSC2 (sold separately). Depending on the situation, it may be appropriate to use both of filters together. When mineral clusters stick to aluminium or anodized aluminium3, it turns brown and becomes difficult to take off. Please refrain from using aluminium or anodized aluminium pans and pots as much as possible. 1. Caustic lime - has a high mineral content. 2. Zoss SeCa filter/Zoss TDSC - A filter used in situations where the original water supply contains a high percentage of well water or chemical substance. The filter enhances the life of the Zoss Membrane and prevents early clotting. 3. Anodized aluminium - An aluminium alloy often used in household pots.
What is the relationship between the Oxidation-Reduction-Potential(ORP) and pH? The oxidization reduction potential is the electrical potential needed to reduce or slow down rusting and decay (oxidization.) The ORP also represents the reduction capacity to attract active oxygen. The optimum levels for the human body is between -150 to -400mv. The ORP is also closely related to pH levels. When the pH increases, the ORP also increases. It is also possible to increase ORP through electrolysis. The value depends greatly on the original water supply. An ideal ORP may not be achieved if the original water has a pH lower than 7.0. Please make sure to examine the properties of your original water, for failure to do so may lead to inexplicable errors. ORP (Oxidation-Reduction Potential) - Electrical potential needed to reduce or slow down rusting and decay (oxidization). This process is also known as deoxidization. ORP is measures in terms of negative mvs. The ideal ORP level for the human body is said to be between -150mv and -400mv.
What is Product Warranty? The warranty that is in effect at the time the appliance is purchased is the one that is honored. We value our customers and are very grateful for their word of mouth marketing our products and services. This is why we promote such a generous return policy and why we can do with confidence based on years of experience, growth and happy testimonials. Warranty does not cover repairs caused by customer neglect or by failure to stop the build-up of calcium in hard water areas. We attempt to determine if you have hard water in your area and if you do, please notify the Zoss Care team at any time. We will suggest the best Zoss SeCa filter or Zoss TDSC as per your area. These advanced hard water filters restructures the minerals and reduces the TDS so that they do not build-up scale on the ionizer components. Neglect includes using the unit in a manner inconsistent with the directions in the owner’s manual.
What types of water treatment solutions do you offer? We offer a wide range of water treatment solutions including alkaline ionized water filtration systems, modular reverse osmosis systems , water softening systems, UV sterilization systems, sewage treatment plants, effluent treatment plants, disinfection solutions, air to water generators and much more to help you treat any kind of water.
How does your whole house filtration system work? Our whole house filtration system is installed at the main water line of your home, so that all the water that enters your home is filtered. The system uses a combination of mechanical and chemical filtration methods to remove impurities such as sediment, chlorine, and heavy metals.
What is the difference between wastewater treatment and sewage treatment? Wastewater treatment refers to the process of removing pollutants and contaminants from water that has been used for industrial or commercial purposes. Sewage treatment, on the other hand, refers to the process of treating water that has been used for domestic purposes, such as in homes and buildings.
Can you provide solutions for effluent treatment plants? Yes, we offer a range of solutions for effluent treatment plants. These include mechanical, physical, and biological treatment methods, as well as advanced technologies such as membrane filtration and UV disinfection. Our team of experts will work with you to design a treatment plan that meets your specific needs.
How long does it take to install your water treatment systems? The time required to install our water treatment systems will vary depending on the specific system and the complexity of the installation. However, we will provide you with a detailed installation schedule before the work begins, and we will work with you to minimize any disruption to your daily routine.
How can I determine which water treatment solution is right for my needs? The best way to determine the right water treatment solution for your needs is to schedule a consultation with one of our water treatment experts. They will assess your water quality and recommend a solution that is tailored to your specific needs.
Our payment policy: Our company accepts the following forms of payment: Visa MasterCard Google Pay Wire transfer All payments must be made in full at the time of purchase, unless otherwise arranged with our sales team. If you are paying by credit or debit card, please ensure that your billing address matches the address on file with your bank. For customers paying by wire transfer, please note that your order will not be processed until the funds have cleared in our account. For large orders or commercial and industrial clients, we may offer net-term payment options. In these cases, the terms of the payment plan will be discussed and agreed upon before the order is processed. We also reserve the right to cancel or hold any order until payment has been verified. Please note that we do not accept personal or company checks as a form of payment. If you have any questions about our payment policy or need assistance with your purchase, please contact our customer service team at [info@zosswater.com or +91 7208211763].
How often do I need to change the filters in my whole house filtration system? The frequency at which you will need to change the filters in your whole house filtration system will depend on the specific system and the water quality in your area. Our team of experts will provide you with a maintenance schedule and help you understand how to monitor the filter life and replace them as needed.
What are the benefits of having a water treatment system? Having a water treatment system can provide many benefits including improved water quality, better taste and smell of water, reduced risk of water-borne illnesses, and protection of your plumbing and appliances.
Our return policy: Our company values customer satisfaction and we want to ensure that you are completely happy with your purchase. If for any reason you are not satisfied with your product, you may return it for a refund or exchange within 30 days of the purchase date. To be eligible for a return, the product must be in the same condition that you received it, including all original packaging and accessories. Please note that any return shipping costs will be the responsibility of the customer. To initiate a return, please contact our customer service team at [info@zosswater.com or +91 7208211763]. They will provide you with a return shipping address and instructions on how to process your return. Once the returned product is received and inspected, we will process your refund or exchange. Please note that custom or special order items are not eligible for return or exchange. If you receive a damaged or defective product, please contact our customer service team immediately and we will work to resolve the issue as quickly as possible. We appreciate your business and thank you for choosing our company for your water treatment needs.