After recently hearing of accidents such as large chemical spills and other emergencies involving the contamination of water with viruses or bacteria I couldn’t help but wonder what are all the ways that I can safely purify water at my home.
Access to clean drinking water is essential to human health. Unfortunately, not everyone has access to clean drinking water due to emergencies or other circumstances, and some individuals have to rely on water sources that may contain harmful contaminants. Therefore, it’s essential to learn how to purify water at home using different methods to ensure that your water is safe for consumption.
In this article, we will discuss various methods to purify water at home using readily available materials. We will also cover frequently asked questions about water purification and the benefits of purifying water at home.
In case of an emergency, it is important also to have water stored at home. See how much water you should have with our water storage calculator and also see the best water storage container ideas.
For more information see the EPS’s emergency disinfection of water guide.
Boiling Water: A Simple and Effective Purification Method
Boiling water is one of the simplest and most effective methods of purifying water at home. When water is boiled, it reaches a temperature that kills off most bacteria, viruses, and parasites that can be present in the water. Here’s how to boil water to purify it:
- Fill a pot with water and place it on a stove or other heat source.
- Heat the water until it reaches a rolling boil.
- Allow the water to boil for 5 to 10 minutes.
- Turn off the heat and let the water cool before drinking.
It’s important to note that boiling water doesn’t remove contaminants like chemicals or heavy metals. Additionally, boiling water doesn’t remove sediment or particulate matter that may be present in the water. If you’re concerned about these types of contaminants, it’s best to use a different purification method, such as a water filter.
When to Boil Water
Boiling water is especially important in situations where the water supply may be contaminated or where access to clean water is limited. Here are some situations where boiling water is recommended:
- During a power outage or other emergency situation where the water supply may be compromised.
- When camping or hiking in areas where the water supply may be contaminated.
- When traveling to countries with questionable water quality.
Boiling water is especially useful in emergency situations or when access to clean water is limited. By following the steps above, you can ensure that the water you drink is free of harmful contaminants. However, if you’re concerned about other types of contaminants, it’s best to use a different purification method, such as a water filter. Always make sure to let the water cool before drinking and follow the instructions for the specific type of purification method you’re using.
Water Filters: A Convenient Purification Method
Water filters are a popular and effective method of purifying water at home. They work by removing contaminants from the water through a variety of filtration methods. Many types of water filters are available, including activated carbon filters, ceramic filters, reverse osmosis filters, and UV filters.
For ideas see the best emergency water filters.
Here’s how to use a water filter to purify water at home:
- Choose a water filter that is appropriate for the type and amount of contaminants you’re concerned about. For example, if you’re worried about chlorine or other chemicals in your water, you may want to choose an activated carbon filter.
- Install the water filter according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This may involve attaching the filter to your faucet or installing it directly into your plumbing.
- Turn on the water and allow it to flow through the filter. Depending on the type of filter, you may need to run the water for a certain amount of time before it’s fully purified.
- Use the purified water for drinking, cooking, and other purposes as needed.
It’s important to note that water filters need to be replaced regularly to maintain their effectiveness. Most manufacturers provide guidelines on how often to replace the filter based on usage and other factors.
When to Use Water Filters
Water filters are a convenient and effective way to purify water at home. Here are some situations where using a water filter is recommended:
- When your local water supply has a high level of contaminants.
- When you’re concerned about specific contaminants in your water, such as lead, chlorine, or pesticides.
- When you’re traveling to a location with questionable water quality.
Water filters work by removing contaminants from the water through a variety of filtration methods. By choosing the right type of filter and using it correctly, you can ensure that the water you drink is free of harmful contaminants. However, it’s important to note that water filters need to be replaced regularly to maintain their effectiveness. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for installation and use, and replace the filter as needed.
See also, how to keep water storage from freezing outside.
Chlorine Bleach Treatment
Chlorine is a common method of water purification used by many municipal water systems. It’s effective at killing off bacteria, viruses, and parasites that can be present in the water. However, chlorine can also be harmful if ingested in large quantities. Here’s how to use chlorine to purify water:
- Add 8 drops of 6% unscented chlorine bleach per gallon of water.
- Stir and let the water sit for 30 minutes.
- If the water smells like chlorine, it’s safe to drink. If it doesn’t, repeat the treatment.
It’s important to note that while chlorine can effectively purify water, it’s not always the best option. Chlorine can leave behind a residual taste and odor, and it’s not effective against all contaminants. If you’re concerned about the quality of your water, it’s best to use a different purification method, such as boiling or using a water filter.
How Much Chlorine Bleach is Needed to Purify Water
The below table illustrates how much-unscented chlorine bleach is needed to purify water being stored in common water storage container sizes.
Water Storage Capacity | Chlorine Amount |
---|---|
2-liter bottle | 2 drops of unscented chlorine bleach |
1-gallon container | 8 drops of unscented chlorine bleach |
3-gallon container | 1/4 teaspoon of unscented chlorine bleach |
5-gallon container | 1/2 teaspoon of unscented chlorine bleach |
7-gallon container | 3/4 teaspoon of unscented chlorine bleach |
55-gallon drum | 5 teaspoons of unscented chlorine bleach |
100-gallon container | 9 teaspoons (3 tablespoons) of unscented chlorine bleach |
500-gallon tank | 47 teaspoons (just over 1 cup) of unscented chlorine bleach |
Remember that these amounts are guidelines based on using between 5.25% and 8.25% unscented chlorine bleach (according to the Washing State Department of Health). Other types of chlorine may require different amounts. Be sure to follow the instructions for the specific type of chlorine you’re using, and always let the water sit for at least 30 minutes before drinking.
Distillation: A Reliable Water Purification Method
Distillation is a highly effective method of purifying water at home that involves boiling water to create steam, and then condensing the steam back into the water. This process removes impurities and contaminants from the water, making it safe to drink. See how to make salt or seawater drinkable.
Here’s how to use distillation to purify water at home:
- Fill a large pot with water and place a smaller pot inside it, making sure the smaller pot is floating in the larger pot of water.
- Cover the larger pot with a lid, that is turned upside down so that the handle of the lid is over the smaller pot.
- Bring the water in the larger pot to a boil. As the water boils, steam will rise and hit the lid.
- The steam will then condense back into water droplets on the lid, and drip into the smaller pot.
- Once the smaller pot is filled with distilled water, turn off the heat and allow the water to cool before transferring it to a clean container for storage.
Distillation removes not only microorganisms, but also heavy metals, minerals, and other impurities that may be present in the water. However, it’s important to note that distillation can be time-consuming and requires a heat source, which may not be available during a disaster or emergency situation.
Best Water Distiller
You can also buy and use a water distiller which is easier than the above pot method. The below water distiller is the most reasonably priced and efficient distiller that I’ve used (check it out on Amazon).
When to Use Distillation
Distillation is a reliable method of purifying water that can be useful in a variety of situations. Here are some situations where using distillation is recommended:
- When your local water supply has a high level of impurities, such as heavy metals or minerals.
- When you’re concerned about the taste or odor of your water.
- When you’re in a survival situation and need to purify water from a questionable source.
Distillation is a reliable and effective method of purifying water at home that removes both microorganisms and impurities from the water. While it can be time-consuming and requires a heat source, it can be a useful method to have on hand in emergency situations or when water quality is a concern. By following the steps above, you can safely and effectively purify water using distillation.
UV Light: An Alternative Purification Method
UV (ultraviolet) light is another effective method of purifying water at home. It works by killing or inactivating harmful microorganisms in the water, such as bacteria, viruses, and protozoa. Here’s how to use UV light to purify water at home:
- Purchase a UV water purification system. There are many types and brands of UV water purifiers available on the market, ranging from small handheld devices to larger units that can purify an entire home’s water supply.
- Install the UV purification system according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This may involve attaching the system to your faucet or installing it directly into your plumbing.
- Turn on the system and allow the water to flow through it. Depending on the type of system, the water may need to be exposed to the UV light for a certain amount of time before it’s fully purified.
- Use the purified water for drinking, cooking, and other purposes as needed.
It’s important to note that UV water purification systems need to be replaced regularly to maintain their effectiveness. Most manufacturers provide guidelines on how often to replace the UV bulb based on usage and other factors.
When to Use UV Light
UV light is an alternative method of purifying water that can be useful in a variety of situations. Here are some situations where using UV light is recommended:
- When your local water supply has a high level of microorganisms, such as bacteria, viruses, or protozoa.
- When you’re traveling to a location with questionable water quality.
- When you’re concerned about the taste or odor of your water.
By using a UV water purification system and following the manufacturer’s instructions for installation and use, you can ensure that the water you drink is free of harmful microorganisms. However, it’s important to note that UV systems need to be replaced regularly to maintain their effectiveness. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for installation and use, and replace the UV bulb as needed.
Iodine Water Purification Tablets
Iodine tablets are a common way to purify water and are often used by hikers and campers to disinfect water in the wilderness. However, they may not be the safest way to purify water at home.
While iodine tablets can effectively kill bacteria and viruses in water, they may not be effective against certain types of parasites and cysts. Additionally, the taste and smell of iodine-treated water can be unpleasant.
Furthermore, long-term use of iodine tablets can have adverse health effects, such as thyroid problems. It’s important to follow the instructions carefully when using iodine tablets and to use them only as a temporary solution.
In general, if you’re purifying water at home, it’s best to use one of the other methods discussed in this article, such as boiling, using a water filter, or distillation. These methods are generally safer and more effective at removing a wider range of impurities and contaminants from the water. If you do choose to use iodine tablets, it’s important to carefully read the instructions and follow them exactly in order to ensure that the water is properly disinfected.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: How long can water be stored before it goes bad?
A: It depends on how it was stored and how clean it was at the time of being stored. See in detail how long stored water can last before it goes bad.
Q: Is it safe to drink tap water?
A: In most developed countries, tap water is safe to drink. However, if you’re unsure, it’s best to purify it first.
Q: How long does boiled water last?
A: Boiled water can be stored in a clean, covered container for up to 24 hours.
Q: Can you purify water with vinegar?
A: Vinegar is not effective in purifying water. It may remove some bacteria, but not viruses or parasites.
Q: How can I tell if the water is safe to drink?
A: The best way to determine if the water is safe to drink is to have it tested by a laboratory. However, if you do not have access to a laboratory, there are some signs you can look for, such as a strange smell or color, which may indicate that the water is contaminated. See how to store large amounts of water long-term.
Q: How often should I change the water filter?
A: It is recommended to change the water filter every 3-6 months, depending on the type of filter and the usage.
Q: Can I use seawater for drinking after purifying it?
A: It is not recommended to use seawater for drinking, even after purifying it. Sea water has a high salt content, which can be harmful to the body if consumed in large quantities. See if drinking salt or seawater will make you sick.
Q: Is it safe to drink rainwater?
A: Rainwater is generally safe to drink if collected and stored properly. However, it is important to note that it can still contain pollutants and contaminants, and it is recommended to purify it before drinking.
Q: Can I use boiling water to purify water that is cloudy or muddy?
A: Boiling water is an effective method of water purification, but it may not remove all the impurities, such as sediment. It is recommended to use a filtration method in addition to boiling in such cases.
Conclusion
In conclusion, access to clean and safe drinking water is essential for human survival, and there are various methods of water purification that can be done at home. Boiling water, using a water filter, solar disinfection, chlorination, and distillation are all effective methods of water purification, and each has its unique advantages and disadvantages.
It is important to note that while these methods can remove harmful bacteria and viruses, they may not remove all impurities, such as chemicals and heavy metals. It is recommended to have your water tested by a laboratory if you suspect that it may be contaminated.
By following the methods outlined in this article and practicing good hygiene, you can ensure that you and your family have access to safe and clean drinking water. Stay hydrated and healthy!