Clean water is vital for our bodies, and we should take all steps necessary to ensure its availability at home. You can purify water by several processes, each having varied merits and demerits.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the different options, helping you choose the best water purification method for your home. We’ll cover various ways to purify water at home, including natural methods, and discuss options like water jars and mineral water.
Understanding Your Water Quality
To effectively choose a method of purification, it is necessary to familiarize yourself with the composition of your water. You can get your water tested to check for contaminants like bacteria and viruses, heavy metals, and chemicals. Based on the results, you can select the best purification mode.
Boiling
Water boiling is one of the easiest and most efficient methods of purification that any home can consider using. It is recommended to boil the water for not less than one minute to eliminate the most of bacteria, viruses, and parasites. This method doesn’t require any special equipment and is ideal for emergencies.
Nevertheless, boiling does not eliminate chemical impurities; thus, it cannot be considered an effective means of protecting areas with increased concentrations of dangerous chemicals. This is still worth noting if you were wondering how to purify water at home naturally.
Filtration Systems
There are various types of filtration systems available, each designed to remove specific contaminants from your water
- Activated Carbon Filters: These filters are excellent for removing chlorine, sediments, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from water, improving taste and odor. They are commonly found in water pitchers, faucet-mounted units, and under-sink systems.
- Reverse Osmosis (RO) Systems: RO systems use a semi-permeable membrane to remove contaminants like heavy metals, fluoride, and nitrates. They are highly effective but costly and require professional installation and maintenance.
- Ultraviolet (UV) Purifiers: UV purifiers use ultraviolet light to kill bacteria and viruses. They are often used with other filtration methods, as they don’t remove chemical contaminants.
Water Distillers
Water distillers work by heating water to create steam, which is then condensed back into liquid form, leaving impurities behind. This method effectively removes bacteria, viruses, heavy metals, and chemicals. However, distillation can be slow, and the process uses considerable electricity as well.
Natural Purification Methods
If you prefer natural methods to purify water at home, there are several eco-friendly and effective options.
- Solar Disinfection (SODIS): This method uses sunlight to kill pathogens in water. Fill clear plastic bottles with water and place them in direct sunlight for at least six hours. The UV rays from the sun will kill most bacteria and viruses. SODIS is a simple, low-cost method but is best suited for small quantities of water.
- Clay Pots and Ceramic Filters: Clay pots or ceramic filters can filter water naturally. These filters have tiny pores that trap contaminants, making the water safe to drink. They are inexpensive and easy to maintain but may not remove all contaminants.
- Charcoal and Sand Filters: DIY filters made from charcoal and sand can help remove impurities from water. Charcoal helps to absorb chemicals and improve taste, while sand filters out particles. This method is a good option for those looking for a natural and cost-effective solution.
Choosing Bottled Mineral Water
If you’re looking for a convenient and reliable option, bottled mineral water is a popular choice. For example, brands like Bisleri offer packaged drinking water that undergoes 90 quality checks and a 10-step purification process at its facility, ensuring the highest quality and safety. When choosing the best mineral water, look for brands that are certified and have positive reviews regarding taste and quality.
You can also choose mineral water that is derived from natural springs and is bottled at the source for maximum freshness and purity. For instance, Bisleri offers
Vedica, which comes from the Himalayas and is rich in helpful minerals.
Water Jars and Dispensers
Water jars and dispensers are a practical solution for storing and dispensing purified water at home. These jars often come with built-in filters that remove contaminants, ensuring you always have access to clean water. They are easy to use and maintain, making them a popular choice for many households.
Making the Right Choice
Choosing the best water purification method for your home depends on your needs and circumstances. Consider the following factors:
- Contaminants: Identify contaminants in your water to choose the most effective purification method.
- Cost: Evaluate the initial and ongoing costs of the purification system, including maintenance and filter replacements.
- Convenience: Consider how easy the system is to use and maintain.
- Environmental Impact: Think about the impact of the purification method on the environment, including energy usage and waste generation.
By taking these factors into account, you can select the best method to ensure that your home always has safe, clean drinking water. When you do not have access to safe water or appropriate purification methods, bottled mineral water is always the safest option for daily consumption.