Is It Safe To Reboil Water To Increase Purity?

Reboiling Water: What Happens

When you reboil water, it can lead to the release of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and the formation of disinfection byproducts (DBPs). VOCs can include bacteria-killing compounds like chlorine and chloramines, which are added to water as disinfectants. Reboiling these compounds can release them as gases, potentially making the water less safe to drink.

Effects of Reboiling on Water Quality

Research has shown that reboiling water can lead to a significant decrease in its purity. For example, a study found that reboiling water for 15 minutes released up to 60% of the dissolved oxygen in the water, which can lead to the formation of DBPs. Additionally, reboiling water can also lead to the degradation of any remaining bacteria, which can then re-grow in the water, making it less safe to drink.

Alternative Methods for Purifying Water

If you need to increase the purity of your water, there are alternative methods you can use. These include using a water filter or purification tablets, which can remove impurities and bacteria from the water without releasing VOCs. Additionally, you can also use methods like solar disinfection (SODIS), where you place the water in a clear plastic bottle and leave it in direct sunlight for at least six hours, to kill bacteria and other microorganisms.