Non-Chemical Residential Water Treatment Systems

Non-chemical residential water treatment systems are better for the environment, better for the body and frequently last longer than chemical residential water treatment systems because there are no chemicals to replenish. Non-chemical water treatment is an almost $5 billion-a-year industry, with demand growing by almost 7 percent per year. There are many non-chemical treatments, including sand filters, deionization filters, ultraviolet treatment, distillation and ozone treatment.

Sand Filters

Sand-filter systems are used around the world to remove sediment and bacteria from water. Filtering water through several layers of sand, ranging from fine to large-particle sand grains, is a slow process, so sand filtration requires a storage facility to hold filtered water for immediate access.

Deionization

Deionization filters remove ions from water to purify it. Deionization filters have cartridges that hold resin to remove the ions in the water, so the cartridges need to be replaced or refilled occasionally.

Ultraviolet Treatment

Ultraviolet water-purification systems shine high-intensity ultraviolet light onto the water, killing bacteria and other contaminants. Water passes through a chamber, where the UV light is enclosed. This is a very popular treatment system, as it doesn't require filter replacement.

Distillation

Distillation boils water, turning the pure water into steam and leaving the impurities behind. The steam is then collected and cooled. Distillation units require frequent maintenance to remove the impurities that have been left behind.

Ozone Treatment

Ozone water treatment mixes water with ozone gas (safe and non-chemical), which kills all bacteria and contaminants with which it comes in contact. Ozone treatment doesn't require any filter replacement, but it is generally more costly than other processes.

Activated Carbon

Activated carbon filtering sifts water through carbon filters, removing particles and purifying the water. Activated carbon has been shown to be the best method of treatment for water that has been contaminated by pesticides.

Reverse Osmosis

Reverse osmosis forces water through a filter with extremely small holes. The water passes through, but larger particles and most contaminants are left behind. While most contaminants are filtered out, reverse osmosis isn't 100 percent effective. The filter also tends to get dirty and easily clogged, so it needs to be replaced frequently.