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Water Treatment

Things to consider when buying a water treatment...

Make sure to get a water treatment that will give you the best chance of not getting sick in the area of the world that you are in, water treatment concerns of someone travelling to India are quite different then those of someone day hiking in the Kootenays.

Filter vs Purifier

There is a subtle difference between the two. Filter removes bacteria and Parasites, while a purifier also takes care of viruses. Filters are less expensive and typically more compact.

Drops and Tablets

One of the easiest and inexpensive ways to treat water is through the use of iodine drops or tablets. They work very well; however, they have a terrible taste and one cannot use them for a long periods of time as the prolonged use of iodine effects the human kidneys. There are neutralizing pills for the taste but there is nothing for affects of iodine on the body.

Pumps

Pumps are what you need if you have no time and a large volume of water to
be treated. Most pumps force the water through the filter spitting out drinkable water on the other end. With an addition of a carbon or iodine filter the water is also purified. These are typically simple to use and usually require no wait time, they are effective for many gallons of water.

Pump-free Purification

There is a variety of pump-free systems. Most of them require a small electrical charge to trigger a chemical reaction which then treats the water. These tend to be smallest in size, a little more finicky to use and more expensive; however, they are arguably the highest level of water treatment. They may require a wait time, so again, be sure to inquire.

Container type

Be aware that some water containers can leech contaminants into the water as well. It is always a good idea to wash them with treated water as to preserve the sanitation of the filter systems.

What do you think?