There are many benefits to using charcoal for filtering water, and you’re probably wondering if it’s worth the investment.
In this post, I will break down everything you need to know about using charcoal for water filtration, from what it is to how it works as well its pros and cons.
I will also help you decide if charcoal is the right solution for you and give tips on choosing the right charcoal filter for your needs
Table of Contents
What Is Charcoal?
Water can be filtered with many different types of charcoal to choose from. But what is charcoal, and why is it so effectively filtering water?
Charcoal is made by burning organic matter, such as wood, until it’s turned into a black powder.
The resulting powder is highly porous and can absorb much liquid.
-This is why charcoal is used for filtering water—it can remove impurities and toxins from the liquid, making it safe to drink.
Various forms of charcoal offer different benefits.
So which one is right for you? Read on to find out.
Is a charcoal filter better than a regular filter?
Other filters are exceptionally fruitful at filtering fluids. However, activated charcoal channels do considerably more.
Besides the fact that activated charcoal channels trap residue and trash, they likewise trap debris and smells. The charcoal found in charcoal filters isn’t what you’d toss on a bbq pit.
The Pros of Activated Carbon:
This filter media is very effective at removing and even improving the taste and odor of your drinking water.
Other contaminants can also be removed, including iodine and chlorine residuals, radon, detergents, certain artificial chemicals (usual pesticides), and volatile organic chemicals (typically paint thinning products).
Removing heavy metals and lead from your water supply is possible, but this will need a specific type of activated carbon filter to be effective.
The Cons of Activated Carbon:
Activated carbon is a popular water filtration medium, and it is used in many commercial and home water filtration systems and for industrial applications such as wastewater treatment.
However, you should be aware of some drawbacks to using activated carbon before deciding whether it is the right choice for your application.
Activated Carbon Has a Short Shelf Life
Activated carbon has a concise shelf life and must be replaced after several months or weeks.
This is why many commercial water filtration systems use granular activated carbon rather than powdered activated carbon to filter water.
The granules are more accessible to replace when they become saturated with contaminants than a powder.
Activated Carbon Can Be Costly
The cost of activated carbon can add up quickly when you consider how much of it you will need for your application.
For example, if you have a large fish tank or pond, you will need a lot more granular activated carbon than someone who only needs it for drinking water or other single-use purposes.
This means that the cost of activated carbon can vary widely depending on what type and amount you need for your application.
What Are the Benefits of Using Charcoal for Filtering?
You’ve probably heard of activated charcoal before, but what is it?
Simply put, charcoal that has been treated with oxygen to create a porous surface.
This surface is excellent for adsorbing chemicals and other pollutants.
Now, you’re probably thinking, “Why on earth would I want to use charcoal for filtering my water?” And believe me, I asked myself the same question at first.
But there are a few great benefits to using charcoal for filtering.
It removes toxins and chemicals from your water, improves the taste and smell of your water, is environmentally friendly, and is cost-effective.
How to Use Charcoal for Filtering.
How to use charcoal for filtering? You must place charcoal in a mesh bag or filter and submerge it in your water source. The water will slowly drip through the charcoal, removing impurities.
It’s a good idea to use a carbon filter if you’re using charcoal for filtering, as this will help improve your water quality.
You can buy carbon filters these days, so there’s no excuse not to have one in your arsenal. And that’s all there is to it.
Using charcoal for filtering is a great way to improve your water quality and ensure you’re staying hydrated on the go.
The Best Charcoal Filters for Your Home
When choosing the best charcoal filters for your home, there are a few things to consider.
The type of filter you get will depend on the kind of water you’re trying to filter, and hard water requires a filter specifically designed to tackle that kind of water.
You’ll need a different filter if you’re trying to get rid of chlorine and other chemicals. And then there’s the size of the filter.
Do you need something small that can be attached to your faucet, or do you need a larger filter that will take up more space? Once you’ve answered those questions, it’s time to start shopping.
We’ve got a great selection of charcoal filters, so you’re sure to find the perfect one for your needs.
How to Make Your Charcoal Filter
Now that you know all about charcoal for filtering, it’s time to learn how to make your charcoal filter.
The great thing about this is that you can customize it to fit your needs.
Materials You Will Need
- A metal container that can be closed and sealed airtight
- Activated charcoal
Step 1
First, put the activated charcoal in the metal container.
Step 2
Then, close off the top of the container, so the charcoal is in an airtight environment.
Step 3
Next, heat the metal container until the charcoal starts to smoke.
Step 4
Once it’s smoking, let it cool down, and voila! You’ve got yourself a homemade charcoal filter.
Conclusion
Everything you need to know about using activated charcoal filters water and air. As you can see using charcoal for filtering is an excellent option for those looking for an eco-friendly and affordable way to improve the quality of their home environment.
In addition to it being an easy, eco-friendly way to filter your water the best part is you can make your own so make it part of your SHTF preparations.
So give it a try for yourself and start enjoying your very own filtered fresh water.