Water Cleaning Methods
Water purification is the process of removing undesired materials from raw water. Water that has not been cleaned may contain parasites, bacteria, algae, viruses and many more unwanted elements that can affect health and well-being. Contaminant free water is essential in life and there are some methods and devices that can be used to clean and purify your water.-
Boiling
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Boiling is the most recommended method of purifying water. This method destroys bacteria, microorganisms, viruses, protozoans, parasites and any other contaminants that may be lurking in water. It is also the simplest and cheapest way to go about cleaning water. Boiling water until it reaches a temperature of 212 degrees Fahrenheit kills all pathogens. If there is no thermometer handy, bringing water to a rolling boil ensures that it is safe to drink. All that is needed is heat and a container to boil the water in.
Water Filters
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Water filters cleanse water by passing water through screens with microscopic holes, allowing only pure water to pass through. Screens are cleaned or replaced when they become clogged with impurities. The two most common filter types are sink and pitcher filters. Sink filters are mounted to sink faucets and pass water from the tap through the filter. Pitcher filters are pitchers with built in filters that double as water dispensers. Water is poured into the top of the pitcher and passes through a filter, which deposits the purified water in the lower section of the filter. Different filter systems offer different levels of filtration. The higher the level, the higher the cost.
Bleach
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It may be surprising to know that regular household bleach is a water purifier. Bleach is alkaline and contains chlorine, which kills bacteria and viruses and combats foul smells water may sometimes carry. Applying eight to 16 drops of bleach (1/8 tsp.) to a gallon of water, stirring and letting it sit for 30 minutes will sufficiently disinfect water. The water should have a slight chlorine smell. Double the amount for cloudy water. Avoid bleach with perfumes, dyes and added cleaning agents and do not use non-chlorine bleach. Household bleach typically holds 5.25-percent chlorine.
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