How to Distill Drinking Water at Home Without a Distiller

Distilled water is increasingly popular for its purified qualities, but obtaining it can be costly. Thankfully, you can distill drinking water at home using various methods, all of which can yield clean and safe water for everyday use. Here are some methods you can try without investing in a sophisticated distiller.

Why Distilled Water?

Distilled water is water that has been purified through a process of boiling and condensing the steam back into liquid form. This process removes impurities and minerals, making the water highly pure and suitable for various purposes, such as cleaning batteries, making fuel alcohol, or drinking. If you are inclined to drink distilled water, it is crucial to understand the reasons behind it. Whether for emergency water purification during a crisis or drinking water while on an outdoor trip, you can distill water yourself at home to save costs.

Making Distilled Water with Your Tumble Drier

One of the simplest methods involves utilizing your tumble drier. The condensation tank in a tumble drier collects the water that condenses from the steam generated during the drying process. This water is free and has no additives, making it safe to use.

How to Distill Water Using a Boiling Pot Method

Another method involves a boiling pot setup. Suspend a container over a boiling pot filled with water, using an ice pack and hot pads to control the temperature and direction of the steam. As the steam cools, it condenses and collects in the container below. This method, although not highly efficient, can be an effective DIY solution for small-scale water distillation.

Using a Pressure Cooker for Distillation

For those who want a more advanced home method, a pressure cooker can be used. Attach a copper pipe to the steam outlet in the lid of the pressure cooker. Using a coil or water jacket, the steam can be condensed into liquid form. This method, while effective, may require some practice and is best used for those familiar with pressure cooker operation.

DIY Distillation Column

A distillation column is an efficient method for purifying water on a larger scale. However, it may be too advanced for home use. Instead, you can opt for a countertop distiller available for purchase at Amazon. These devices are designed for home use and can make the process simpler and more efficient.

Making Refined Water

Home distillation can also be used to refine water from various sources, such as well water, seawater, or even plants. By distilling this water, you can obtain clean water for emergencies or outdoor trips. When refining water, it is important to understand the technique you are using, whether boiling and steam condensation or evaporating and condensing, to ensure that impurities and minerals are removed.

Methods for Making Home Distilled Water

Here are a few methods you can use to distill water without a distiller:

Boil and Condense: Fill a 5-gallon pot with water and set a glass or metal bowl inside it. Place a scooped or pointed cover over the pot, upside down, so that as steam condenses, it falls into the bowl. Add ice to the lid of the pot to help collect the steam. Boil the water and allow the steam to condense and collect in the bowl. Turn off the heat and carefully remove the bowl. Store the distilled water in a clean and preferably sterilized container. External Container Method: If you don't want to deal with temperature differences, you can heat water in a pot and collect the distilled water in an external container. Use a pipe to direct the steam into a collection container, ensuring it is set up to collect the liquid. This method has the added benefit of potentially reducing the risk of contamination from the source water.

By following these methods, you can distill drinking water at home without the need for a costly distiller, making your water cleaner and safer for consumption.

Conclusion

Distilling water at home can be a rewarding process, providing you with clean and safe water without the need for expensive equipment. Whether you use a tumble drier, a boil and condense method, a pressure cooker, or a countertop distiller, you can achieve the desired result of distilled water.

Remember to always prioritize health and safety when distilling water. Depending on the source, you may still need to ensure that the water is free from contaminants. This guide offers a variety of methods to help you achieve your goal of distilling water at home.