No water from an unprotected source is safe to drink without treatment. Even the cleanest looking river, lake, spring or stream could be unsafe.
Untreated water can be contaminated with bacteria, viruses, fungi, and an assortment of other parasites.
If you are living in a lakeside home, cottage, cabin, recreational vehicle, etc., and using water from an unprotected source, it is imperative that you consume water that has been treated. A long-term treatment process may be more efficient and cost effective.
Water Purification Methods: Each method of household treatment has its advantages and disadvantages. Choose a treatment method that suits your lifestyle and follow the directions carefully. Use only purified or boiled water for drinking, brushing teeth, washing dishes or washing fruits and vegetables that will be eaten raw.
Household Water Purification Summary
Treatment Method |
Bacteria |
Viruses |
Giardia |
Chlorination |
E |
E |
S¹ |
Distillation |
E |
E |
E |
Iodination |
E |
E |
S¹ |
UV-Irradiation |
E |
E |
S¹ |
Ceramic Filtration |
E |
S |
E |
Ozonation |
E |
E |
S¹ |
E – effective S – somewhat effective
¹ - requires additional filters to eliminate Giardia cysts.
Household Water Purification Methods
Treatment
Method |
Directions |
Chlorination |
Chlorine Bleach is dosed into the water by a pump. Adequate contact time is ensured by a storage tank. |
Distillation |
Water is treated in a still. |
Iodination |
Iodine is dosed into the water. Adequate contact time is ensured by a storage tank. |
UV Irradiation |
Water passes through a UV – lamp. |
Ceramic Filtration |
Water passes through a ceramic cartridge. |
Ozonation |
Ozone is formed and bubbled through the water. |
With the potential costs of treatment for a waterborne illness being many hundreds of dollars, this does not include time off from work/school, it is vital that you have your household water tested by a provincial or private laboratory three times a year.
Use a household water purification method even if it passes these laboratory tests as not all pathogens can be detected.
When in doubt, bring water to a rolling boil for 1 minute.
Remember: Some waterborne diseases are difficult to diagnose. If you drink water from an unprotected source and have not been feeling well, contact your family physician.
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