View Full Version : water purification question
Hoop Time
07-22-2009, 12:25
Up until now, I have not had to worry about water purification. I have not gone on hikes in places where I couldn't get trusted water to refill my bottles. Now that I am starting to ease into some different/longer adventures, I need to take water purification into consideration and am looking for advice on the easiest and most economical methods.
I have heard some good things about Steripens, and actually think that is the way I'd like to go at some point. But I have spent a lot on new gear the last few weeks and am looking for a cheaper alternative in the short run.
Water purification is the only area I won't skimp on. I carry the First Need XL Purifier. Due to health reasons, I can't risk chemical treatments or not treating at all.
john gault
07-22-2009, 12:52
I don't purify water, but don't want to start that debate. However, just from observation I think the most economical seems to be the chemical approach, such as just plain clorox/bleach.
MintakaCat
07-22-2009, 13:08
I think the most economical seems to be the chemical approach, such as just plain clorox/bleach.
I got to agree, if economical is part of the water treament question, then that's the way to go. (Or carry in what you need)
Hoop Time
07-22-2009, 13:21
By economical, I mean I don't really want to go spend $70 for a Steripen, but I am thinking of going on an overnighter Thursday and Friday that will likely require more water than I care to carry and figured I'd want some sort of purification for water I'd get from a spring (realizing many here say they don't bother in many instances). So the chlorox option is one I could use, but wondered about other options.
If you dont want to spend $70 for a Steripen (which is what I use and love), then pump filters are out as well as that's pretty much what you'll spend there as well. Your remaining options are boiling or chemicals. Aqua Mira is some's choice, though I've never used it.
Hey Hoop, pop over to Wildware and pick up some PolarPur. A more palatable alternative to bleach or AquaMira and not off the charts pricewise, ~$15. One bottle can be your weekend water purification for years. It advertises it is good up 2000 quarts. I used one bottle on my entire thru. Just be sure to protect the cap which can break if hit too hard.
john gault
07-22-2009, 13:34
At one-two teaspoon(s) per 10 gallons, I don't think you'll get more economical; however, I've never priced the other chemical treatment, so don't know. The big downside is that you need to wait about 30-60 minutes http://www.doh.wa.gov/phepr/handbook/purify.htm
They talk about prefiltering, but really not necessary, that's just because we Americans want to see clear water, but the stuff that gets you sick you can't see. I bet some floaties are actually nutritious:D
spencerb
07-22-2009, 21:12
I like aqua mira or polar pure. Polar pure will last forever and is probably the most economical choice. Both are chemicals.
I used to use a filter, but the time and maintenance weren't worth it for me. I grew up on city water, so I don't even notice the chemical taste.
MintakaCat
07-23-2009, 11:17
I'm not sure if $45 is considered economical, but the Amigo Pro is what I use. Here's the link:
http://www.ula-equipment.com/amigopro.asp
If $45 is too much then the aqua mira is an excellent choice.
john gault
07-23-2009, 11:41
This is from the link: http://www.wisementrading.com/water/treatments.htm
"Micropur MP1 is effective against viruses and bacteria in 15 min., however it requires 4 hours for cysts such as Cryptosporidium in adverse conditions such as cold (38°), dirty water. Waiting time can be reduced to 30 minutes in typical lake/steam water".
Is this standard among the chemical treatments? Sounds like you really don't know how long to wait without testing the water at a lab. Sure, it gives you guidelines, i.e. how cold, dirty...the water is, but how do you really know?
I bet most only wait 15 minutes.
You know, I think the instruction on every chemical treatment I've ever read has that about waiting 4 hours for the treatment of cysts. I've used Aqua Mira almost exclusively (or nothing at a spring that's flowing well) for about 8 years, and have never had an intestinal issue. I almost never wait more than 30 minutes when treating.
This is from the link: http://www.wisementrading.com/water/treatments.htm
"Micropur MP1 is effective against viruses and bacteria in 15 min., however it requires 4 hours for cysts such as Cryptosporidium in adverse conditions such as cold (38°), dirty water. Waiting time can be reduced to 30 minutes in typical lake/steam water".
Is this standard among the chemical treatments? Sounds like you really don't know how long to wait without testing the water at a lab. Sure, it gives you guidelines, i.e. how cold, dirty...the water is, but how do you really know?
I bet most only wait 15 minutes.
I almost never wait more than 30 minutes when treating.That's why I like my Steripen - let's you get to and drink cold water fast. Drinking perfectly safe, non-taste altered cold water in less than two minutes from slipping off the pack. :)
Hoop Time
07-23-2009, 19:28
That's why I like my Steripen - let's you get to and drink cold water fast. Drinking perfectly safe, non-taste altered cold water in less than two minutes from slipping off the pack. :)
You convinced me (along with the other Steripen posters). I didn't like the idea of chlorox aftertaste. Had $50 gift card to Bass Pro that I had laying around. Decided if I was going to pay $15 for a bottle of chemicals, might as well use the gift card and $30 to get the Steripen.
I am assuming I can use my bandana to filter any visible stuff and the Steripen will take care of bugs quick, easy with no aftertaste. Gonna test it out this weekend.
I am assuming I can use my bandana to filter any visible stuff and the Steripen will take care of bugs quick, easy with no aftertaste. Gonna test it out this weekend.I think you'll be pleased with your choice. Rarely on the AT do you have no choice but "murky" water. The bandana will work in a pinch, or as some have suggested, cut down a ladies' stocking hose to the size you need (not much) and it's practically weightless. Double it's usefulness by popping it over your head/face to hold up a grocery store to resupply! :eek: :D :p
Hoop Time
07-26-2009, 18:27
Used the Steripen this weekend going Trindle Road to Duncannon. Really glad I bought it. I actually thought I could probably carry enough water to last if I filled up at the Scott Farm. I was way off. The way I was sweating, I was lucky to be prepared to treat water from sources on the trail. Especially liked the ease of filling, treating and drinking while stopped for water, then able to refill before hiking on.
Skidsteer
07-26-2009, 18:33
That's why I like my Steripen - let's you get to and drink cold water fast. Drinking perfectly safe, non-taste altered cold water in less than two minutes from slipping off the pack. :)
And taking off the pack isn't even required if you keep it in a side pocket. I've zapped water while walking. Can't beat that for convenience.
I'm not sure if $45 is considered economical, but the Amigo Pro is what I use. Here's the link:
http://www.ula-equipment.com/amigopro.asp
If $45 is too much then the aqua mira is an excellent choice.Second vote for the Amigo Pro. An excellent gravity filter, well made and easy to use. Also, if you're the DIY type, there are instructions for making your own gravity filter (http://www.tothewoods.net/HomemadeGearGravityFilter.html) on Just Jeff's site.
take-a-knee
07-27-2009, 00:01
Second vote for the Amigo Pro. An excellent gravity filter, well made and easy to use. Also, if you're the DIY type, there are instructions for making your own gravity filter (http://www.tothewoods.net/HomemadeGearGravityFilter.html) on Just Jeff's site.
I made one of those filters from Jeff's plans, it is the ticket. IIRC, it weighs seven ounces dry. I always carry some Katadyn Micropur tabs (foil pack) for backup.