Our drinking water has become contaminated with a plethora of noxious agents. Bottled water is no safer than tap water and may contain chemicals leeched from the plastic bottles. The only options for guaranteed safe water are distilled and reverse osmosis. There are benefits and drawbacks for each approach. However, both these technologies are substantially less expensive than bottled water over time but require a modest initial investment.

Distilled

Table top distillers, such as MegaHome are very portable for people living in rental properties. It is like a large coffee maker. The water is absolutely pure and very safe. Distillation works by boiling the water off and collecting the steam, cooling and condensing it, allowing it to collect in a carafe. This process leaves behind all the impurities, including fluoride. The water should also be filtered, which is a standard component of most distillers.  The main drawback is the material left behind after the water is boiled off. Once you see that, you’ll never want to drink tap water again!

Reverse Osmosis

Reverse osmosis filtration is a popular option. I use an APEC model that is installed under a sink. It takes up a bit of room but once installed allows for free flowing water from its own tap. This allows you to easily wash fruits and vegetables and fill pots for cooking. To maintain its use, you must replace some of the filter elements on an annual basis and the main RO filter every five years. While you might want a plumber for the initial installation, it is a simple procedure to replace the filter elements yourself. Reverse osmosis is technically not as effective as distillation in removing contaminants, but it is more than adequate for your health.

No matter which water you drink, don’t forget to take your trace minerals.