Distillation is one of the oldest and easiest techniques employed in water purification. In this process, water is first heated to its boiling point to kill microorganisms, and the vapor is directed to a condenser. In the condenser, the temperatures are cooler and therefore the vapor condenses back into water. Distillation does not effectively rid water of pesticides and herbicides because these impurities have boiling points lower than the boiling point of water and consequently still remain even after the distillation process. Distillation as a home purification method is expensive, with apparatus costs of $200 to $1500. Even so, home distillation is still more economical than buying bottled water. An efficient home distiller makes a gallon of clean water for only 25 cents, compared to the 89 cents it costs to buy a gallon of bottled water.
Carbon filters used for purification purpose at home contain GAC or block types of carbon. Pitchers having carbon filters ensure you always have clean and good-tasting water. The carbon filter eliminates impurities, such as copper and mercury, dissolved in the water. These carbon filters should be replaced approximately every month. Carbon filters can also be placed under the sink and showers to ensure clean water.
Reverse osmosis, or hyperfiltration, is the most thorough filtration method available. For home water purification, reverse osmosis employs two types of semi-permeable membranes: Thin Film Composite (TFC) and Cellulose Triacetate (CTA). Reverse osmosis removes a wide range of contaminants such as salts, metals and microorganisms. The semi-permeable membrane must be replaced every two years due to wear.
Chlorination is a cheap method of disinfecting water in tanks and swimming pools. It is helps curb the spread of disease-causing bacteria and also removes minerals such as iron.The chlorination method entails adding chlorine bleach to the water. The bleach used should contain between 5 and 6 percent of chlorine and should not contain additives such as dyes or perfumes. Chlorinated water should be left to stand for 30 minutes until it is no longer cloudy.