Water Purifiers
The ultimate water treatment devices, purifiers come in two forms: mechanical and chemical. Mechanical purifiers physically remove tiny viruses (and anything larger) via a membrane with pores that are smaller than a virus (0.02 microns). Chemical purifiers simply kill anything living in the water. Mechanical water purifiers are the most convenient to use, with no foul taste or waiting time (called ‘dwell’ time) for chemicals to take effect or wondering about effective concentrations of disinfectants. However, for very large volumes of water, such as municipal systems and lasting emergency situations, chemical treatment is still the preferred alternative. (Aquatabs® are also part of an extremely lightweight and essential backup to any mechanical purifier should it become lost or compromised in the field.)
Water Filters & Microfilters
Water filters and microfilters are the best choices for most trips in the U.S. and Canada where bacteria and protozoa are the primary concerns. These waterborne bugs are roughly ten times larger than viruses, so a microfilter’s pores are sized to match at 0.2 microns. This takes care of all the things you’ve likely heard of including Giardia, Cryptosporidium, E.coli, Salmonella and the like, in addition to particulates and dissolved solids. Some microfilters are also paired with activated charcoal for two-stage protection, helping to remove chemicals, tastes and odors from water.
Emergency Water Treatment Solutions
We don’t always think of needing water filtration for home or tap water but having an emergency option on hand in case of a natural disaster or other issue that impacts your clean water supply is a smart idea, just in case.
For a comprehensive overview of what each of our water filters and water purifiers was built for, check out our blog post: Water Treatment Guide