Quick Answer
Even with proper distillation, contaminants such as dissolved gases like radon and oxygen, dissolved minerals like silica and calcium, and particulate matter like dissolved solids and microorganisms can remain in distilled water.
Remaining Dissolved Gases
Dissolved gases like oxygen, nitrogen, and radon can remain in distilled water if the distillation process does not remove them effectively. Radon is particularly concerning as it’s a radioactive gas that can accumulate in water. To remove radon, distillers can incorporate activated carbon filters or employ additional distillation stages. A simple distillation process typically removes around 90-95% of dissolved gases, leaving a small percentage behind.
Other Contaminants
Minerals like silica and calcium can also remain in distilled water due to incomplete distillation or the presence of minerals in the distiller itself. Silica levels can remain high if the distiller uses a glass or ceramic container, as these materials can leach silica into the water. It’s essential to choose a distiller with a low-silica component or use a separate silica removal filter. Calcium levels can be reduced by incorporating a reverse osmosis filter or a descaling treatment for the distiller.
Microorganisms and Particulates
Microorganisms like bacteria, viruses, and protozoa can also remain in distilled water, especially if the distiller is not properly maintained or if the source water contains high levels of microorganisms. Particulate matter like dissolved solids can be removed using additional filtration stages, such as activated carbon or reverse osmosis filters. Regular maintenance of the distiller, including cleaning and descaling, can help minimize the presence of microorganisms and particulates in the distilled water.
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