Here are 9 ways to purify water without using an RO system:
- Boiling: Boiling water for at least 1-3 minutes kills most bacteria, viruses, and pathogens, making it safe to drink. For high-altitude areas, boil for 5 minutes to ensure safety.
- Solar Water Disinfection (SODIS): This eco-friendly method uses sunlight. Fill clear plastic bottles with water and leave them in direct sunlight for 6-8 hours. The UV rays disinfect the water.
- Activated Carbon Filtration: Activated carbon filters, often used in pitcher or faucet filters, absorb impurities like chlorine, heavy metals, and some volatile organic compounds (VOCs), improving taste and quality.
- Ceramic Filters: These filters use ceramic material to trap bacteria, sediment, and other pathogens. They are often paired with activated carbon for better filtration.
- Distillation: Boil water and collect the steam in a separate container to condense back into liquid form. This process removes salts, heavy metals, and most contaminants, providing purified water.
- Chlorine or Iodine Tablets: Chlorine and iodine are commonly used to disinfect water. Add the appropriate number of tablets to water, wait for the recommended time (usually 30 minutes to 4 hours), and the water will be safe to drink.
- UV Water Purifiers: UV purifiers use ultraviolet light to disinfect water, killing bacteria and viruses. These purifiers are portable and can be used to purify small amounts of water effectively.
- Sand and Gravel Filtration: A DIY filtration method using layers of sand, gravel, and charcoal to filter out larger particles and impurities. This method can be useful for emergency situations, though further disinfection is recommended.
- Biosand Filters: A natural water purification system that uses layers of sand, gravel, and biofilm (a layer of bacteria) to filter out contaminants. These systems are simple to build and can provide clean water for households.
These methods are effective and can be used in various situations to purify water without the need for an RO system.