It is crucial to have access to clean, safe drinking water at all times for it to have positive effects on an individual’s health. When the source of water supply is a private well, it is highly likely to contain bacteria, chemicals, metals, or other pollutants. That said, yes, you can purchase and install water purification systems. Still, some natural ways can be equally efficient in eliminating impurities and pathogens from well water that homeowners can try.
Test Well Water First
It is necessary to test your well water before employing any sort of purification method to understand any specific issues. Local health departments or private labs can analyze your water sample for bacteria, nitrates, arsenic, lead, and other pollutants. This will assist you in identifying suitable purification methods that may effectively eliminate the contaminants.
Filtration
Filtration is the most basic process of removal of particulate matter and some microorganisms from a given fluid.
Activated Carbon Filters
One of the existing filters is activated carbon filters, which are made of a highly adsorbent form of carbon that clings to contaminants. This kind of filter helps remove sediment and chemicals, as well as bad taste and odor. Furthermore, the pricing of these filters is economical and they can be used in every part of the house.
Reverse Osmosis (RO)
RO systems apply hydraulic pressure on water to pass through a membrane, which cannot pass particles that are more extensive than water molecules. It eliminates metals, minerals, bacteria, protozoa, organic chemicals, and RO salts. An application, such as a single installation under the sink or as a whole house system, needs the services of a professional.
Ceramic Filters
The process of operation is the same as that of carbon filters. Still, porous ceramic filters have narrower holes to trap more microbes. They also filter protozoa, bacteria, and cysts as water flows through tiny holes in this purification system. It is recommended that ceramic components be washed and used again.
Natural Adsorbents
Activated Charcoal
Powdered crushed activated charcoal can be put directly into reservoirs or tanks that supply water to homes, where it physically coats and precipitates pesticides, solvents, organic chemicals, colors, smells, and heavy metals. Approximately 3 to 4 grams are used per every 5 gallons of water, with the material left to dissolve for 1 to 2 hours before consumption. Replace charcoal monthly.
Bentonite Clay
This is a natural substance that removes viruses, heavy metals, and toxins from water by adsorbing them. Add one cup of food-grade bentonite to 5 gallons of water for the solution. Stir well and allow the mixture to settle for a time of between 8 and 24 hours, although this can be interrupted by further stirring. After settling, the particles to sink to the bottom. Then the water can be carefully poured off, leaving behind only the clear liquid.
Sunlight Exposure
It is more advisable to drain water in the sun to make it safe for drinking. As a result of exposure to the sun, UV radiation prevents bacteria, viruses, parasites, and all other disease-causing organisms from reproducing due to cell damage. Fill water trays in transparent bottles, siphon and agitate them to aerate and circulate water to all parts. Then, expose the different parts of the bottles to light. The minimum time that is advised to be exposed to sunlight is 5 hours, and this has to be the hottest time of the day. To minimize this, one should cover food-containing containers with plastic wrap to avoid contact with bacteria.
Boiling
The simplest and easiest way to purify water is by using heat, and this is done by boiling water to ensure that it kills all the disease-causing microbes in the water so that the water can be safe for drinking. The water should boil rapidly with large bubbles for at least 1 minute (3 minutes if you are above 6,500 feet elevation). Refrigerate and, preferably, freeze in clean, covered vessels. Water boiling will not assist in the elimination of sediments or chemical content in the water.
Distillation
Distillation is a process that involves heating water. This resulting steam is collected and left to cool into distilled water with no salts, heavy metals, and microbes. While distillation is efficient, it has one major drawback: the need to use considerable energy to perform the process. Some of these commercial countertop distillers are available in the market but should be appropriately maintained.
Natural Disinfection
Particular natural substances are known to emit chemicals that exterminate microbes in water when added.
Lemongrass
For a 5-gallon container, use 2-3 fresh lemongrass stalks crushed in water. Brew for 3 hours before consuming it, although it is best prepared the night before. Essential oil extract by citral from lemongrass leaves has the capability to inhibit bacterial and fungal activity like E. coli and salmonella.
Neem Leaves
The neem leaves are also effective, and the dried ones have antimicrobial properties. Boil one dried leaf per cup of water for at least 15 minutes and consume it warm with an additional one handful per gallon. It has vermifuge properties that will help get rid of intestinal parasites and is also effective in treating diarrhea.
Conclusion
The above findings give a clear indication that for the best healthy water, it is right to use a number of purification methods that are most appropriate to control the prevailing water contamination problems. Another important consideration is the need to maintain the systems properly and conduct periodic re-testing.
Though these natural water purification techniques are slightly more elaborate than simply connecting a filtration gadget, they are somewhat effective at ridding water of hazardous impurities without chalking up an arm and a leg for safer, cleaner drinking water right out of the well.
Comments