How to Select a Backpacking Water Purifier
When you are on a backpacking or camping trip, chances are you will not be able to carry all the water you need. You must keep yourself hydrated, though, and no matter how clear and clean a stream might look, it can be carrying dangerous microorganisms. The answer to finding potable water is a purification system small enough to carry with you. Compare several types of personal purification systems to find the one that fits your situation.
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Compare iodine and chlorine dioxide water purification tablets. These two types of tablets kill parasites, bacteria, protozoa, cysts and viruses. Neither will kill the parasite that carries cryptosporidiosis. Of all the water purification methods, tablets are the most convenient. They add almost no weight to your pack, and they slip easily into a pocket so you can use them without having to open your backpack.
Katadyn Micropur is a popular chlorine dioxide tablet choice. Different brands might have varying ratios, but Micropur tablets are typically used at one tablet per quart of water. Chlorine dioxide tablets are EPA safety approved when used as recommended. In 15 minutes, tablets will kill bacteria. However, you must allow four hours for a complete kill of cysts.
Some disadvantages to tablets are that they leave a chemical taste, and they will not remove sediment. Iodine cannot be used by pregnant women, and some people have allergic reactions to it.
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Evaluate equipment for boiling water. Boiling water for 10 minutes is a sure method of killing all microorganisms.
Boiling also has some drawbacks. It will not remove bad taste or sediment. Some odor might dissipate during boiling, but it will not completely disappear. You need to carry a pan to boil in, and provide fuel for a fire. Boiling also requires an inconvenient cooling period.
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Consider water purification filters. You will find several types. Most have some kind of pump you use to force the water through the filter. Sometimes it is a small hand pump, or it might be like a bicycle pump, which would be more cumbersome to carry.
Study the features of the water filters. Compare the porosity of the filter and its make-up. Ceramic filters are effective, but they are heavy in a pack and will break if dropped. Some filters combine chemical tablets with the filter. New technology incorporates UV light (powered by batteries) which will kill everything, even giardia and cryptosporidiosis.
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Compare the costs of replacement filters and how easy it will be to buy replacement parts. Weigh the features, such as plastic for light weight against metal for durability.
Look for new kinds of filters such as those that connect directly to your water bottles. Coupled with chlorine dioxide tablets, they will provide clear, safe drinking water in a short time.
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