What is a Portable Water Purifier?

A portable water purifier is a way to make water safe to drink. It differs from other purifiers in that it can be moved from one place to another and is not fixed to a faucet. There are a variety of different types of portable water purifiers available on the market, including tablets and various purification systems. Whatever the method used, the result is the same. Every portable water purifier aims to provide drinkable—or potable—water when no pure water can be found.

Water is necessary for all human life. However, it can be deceptive in its natural state. Though the water in streams, rivers, and lakes may look clear, it is often contaminated with viruses, bacteria, and chemicals that make it unfit for human consumption. Since a portable water purifier is not attached to the faucet, it can be taken on camping trips, on hiking trips, used for emergencies, in the military, or in any other situations were water needs to be purified. It can also be used to take the bad taste out of treated municipal water supplies.

There are commonly two types of water purifiers: chemical and non-chemical. A non-chemical portable water purifier can use a variety of techniques to achieve potable water. Many of them use various filters designed to capture bacteria and other contaminants. Two types of filters commonly used are ceramic filters and activated carbon filters. Ceramic filters feature very small holes that trap things like bacteria. Carbon filters can trap chemicals and bad flavorings.

An ultraviolet portable water purifier is also available. These purifiers use ultraviolet light in order to kill or render pathogens less dangerous. It should be noted that ultraviolet light does not remove any other contaminants or sediments. Thus, it should be paired with a water filter. The two systems working together will help increase water quality.

Chemical purifiers use various chemicals to rid water of contaminants. Two chemicals commonly used are iodine and chlorine available in tablet form. In order to purify water, the chlorine or iodine tablet is added to a quantity of water. The water is then allowed to sit for a few minutes in order for the chemical to do its work. Afterwards, it may be necessary to use another special tablet to cut the taste of the chemicals.

Iodine should be carried in a dark container since it is sensitive to light. Both iodine and chlorine are effective in destroying many waterborne pathogens. However, chlorine may be a better alternative for those with iodine allergies, those who are pregnant, or those with thyroid disease. It is important to note that these purifiers are less effective in cold water than they are in warm water. Therefore, it is important to know how cold the water is and to follow the appropriate timelines for purification.