Salt Water vs Contaminated Freshwater: What Should You Choose?

Choosing Contaminated Freshwater

When faced with the option of contaminated freshwater or saltwater, choose contaminated freshwater first. This decision is based on the ease of purification. Contaminated freshwater can be made drinkable using simple methods such as boiling, sand filtration, or water distillation. If you have access to a fire, boiling is the simplest method, but it requires a significant amount of energy. A portable water filter or a DIY sand filter can also be an effective option.

Desalination of Saltwater

If access to contaminated freshwater is limited, saltwater can be desalinated. However, this process requires more complex equipment and a significant amount of energy. One common method is solar still distillation, which involves creating a shallow pool of saltwater and then covering it with a clear plastic sheet. As the sun heats the plastic, it creates a temperature gradient, allowing water vapor to rise and condense on the underside of the plastic. This process can produce up to 1 liter of fresh water per hour, depending on the efficiency of the setup and the amount of sunlight available.

DIY Water Distillation

Another method for desalinating saltwater is using a DIY water still. A simple still can be created using a plastic bottle, a metal container, and a heat source. Fill the plastic bottle with saltwater and place it inside the metal container. Next, place a rock or a metal weight on top of the plastic bottle to create a seal. Then, heat the metal container with a fire or a portable stove. As the water inside the plastic bottle evaporates, it will condense on the underside of the plastic and flow into a collection container, producing up to 1 liter of fresh water per hour.