Purified vs. Distilled Water: What’s the Difference?
When it comes to water, not all types are created equal. From spring water to mineral water to purified and distilled water, the choices can get a bit overwhelming. Two terms that often come up in conversations around clean drinking water are “purified water” and “distilled water.” Although they are often used interchangeably, they are not the same thing. Understanding the difference can help you make an informed choice for your health and lifestyle. So, let’s dive into the world of purified vs. distilled water to see what sets them apart.
What is Purified Water?
Definition and Process
Purified water is water that has undergone various filtration processes to remove impurities and contaminants. These processes can include reverse osmosis, distillation, deionization, and carbon filtration. Essentially, purified water is water that has been stripped down to its basic H2O form, making it free of any chemicals, minerals, and other contaminants that might be present in tap water. For a water to be called purified, it must be tested and meet USP (US Pharmacopeia) standards for purity.
Benefits of Purified Water
1. Improved Taste and Odor: Purified water tends to have a clean and fresh taste because it has been removed of chlorine, chemicals, and germs.
2. Fewer Contaminants: Purified water has significantly fewer contaminants than untreated water. These include harmful bacteria, viruses, and heavy metals like lead and mercury.
3. Better for Appliances: Using purified water can help extend the life of your household appliances like coffee makers, humidifiers, and steam irons by preventing buildup and corrosion.
4. Great tasting coffee and tea: Using purified water to make coffee, tea and other beverages improves the taste since there are no contaminants to interfere with the taste.
Purification Methods
1. Reverse Osmosis: One of the most common methods, reverse osmosis forces water through a semi-permeable membrane, removing 96-98% of contaminants. This is the most common method of purifying water and has a universally pleasing taste.
2. Deionization: This process uses ion-exchange resins to remove minerals and all other contaminants. Deionization results in the most pure water and can be used to both drinking and high purity industrial applications.
3. Distillation: Water is boiled the water to produce steam, which is then condensed back into liquid form resulting in a water free from contaminants.
4. Carbon Filtration is used as a step in all three purification methods: Activated carbon filters absorb impurities, effectively removing chlorine, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and other chemicals prior to the final purification steps.
What is Distilled Water?
Definition and Process
Distilled water undergoes a purification process known as distillation. This involves boiling the water to produce steam, which is then condensed back into liquid form. During this process, impurities with higher boiling points are left behind, resulting in highly purified water.
Benefits of Distilled Water
1. Ultra-Pure: Distilled water is one of the purest forms of water available, with virtually all contaminants removed.
2. Safe for Sensitive Applications: Its high purity makes distilled water ideal for medical procedures, laboratory experiments, and baby formula.
3. Removes All Impurities: The distillation process effectively removes bacteria, germs, and any dissolved salts or minerals.
Distillation Process
1. Boiling: The water is boiled to produce steam, which separates the pure water molecules from contaminants.
2. Condensation: The steam then passes through cooling coils or chambers, where it condenses back into liquid water.
3. Collection: The distilled water is collected in a clean container, free from most types of contaminants.
Purified vs. Distilled Water: Key Differences
Purity Levels
Both purified and distilled water undergo stringent purification processes, making them significantly cleaner than regular tap water. However, distilled water often achieves higher levels of purity because it removes virtually all minerals and contaminants.
Taste
While both types of water generally taste better than tap water, some people find distilled water to have a “flat” taste due to the lack of minerals. Purified water, on the other hand, may retain some of these minerals, making it more palatable to those accustomed to mineral-rich beverages.
Mineral Content
Both Purified and Distilled water lacks all minerals, as they are removed during the distillation and purification processes.
Uses
– Drinking: Both types are excellent for drinking, but some may prefer the taste of purified water.
– Medical and Laboratory Use: Distilled or Deionized water is often the go-to choice due to its ultra-pure status.
– Household Appliances: Using either purified or distilled water can prolong the life of your appliances, but distilled water is usually recommended for sensitive devices like steam irons and humidifiers.
When to Choose Purified Water
If you’re looking for water that is both clean and retains some beneficial minerals, purified water is likely your best bet. Here are some situations where purified water stands out:
1. Drinking Water: It’s great for everyday drinking and cooking.
2. Aquariums: Many fish owners prefer purified water to maintain the health of their aquatic pets.
3. Office Use: Purified water is excellent for water coolers and office hydration systems.
When to Choose Distilled Water
Distilled water is your go-to option when you need an ultra-pure form of water. Consider choosing distilled water for:
1. Medical Use: Hospitals, laboratories, and dental offices often use distilled water due to its high purity.
2. Baby Formula: Parents might prefer using distilled water to ensure no contaminants affect their infant.
3. Steam Irons and Humidifiers: Distilled water prevents mineral buildup, prolonging the life of such appliances.
Health Considerations
Hydration
Both purified and distilled water are excellent choices for hydration, especially compared to some mineral-laden or poorly treated tap waters. However, you might miss out on some beneficial minerals found in water. Make sure your diet compensates for this if you exclusively drink distilled water.
Nutrient Intake
Since distilled water contains no nutrients or minerals, it must be obtained through a balanced diet if you primarily consume it. Purified water may have minerals added for taste, but it’s usually not substantial enough to rely on as a nutrient source.
Contaminant-Free
Both types of water significantly reduce or eliminate harmful contaminants, making them safer for consumption than untreated or inadequately treated water sources.
FAQs: Purified vs. Distilled Water
Which is better for drinking?
Both are excellent choices, but it often comes down to personal preference. Distilled water is cleaner but may taste flat, while purified water has a smoother taste and higher pH.
Can I use distilled water in my aquarium?
Both Distilled and Purified need to have buffers added before being used for aqariums.
Is purified water safe for babies?
Yes, purified water is safe for babies, but distilled water is often recommended to ensure the highest level of purity when preparing infant formula.
Contact Us Today
Choosing between purified and distilled water depends largely on your specific needs and personal preferences. Whether you’re looking for everyday drinking water or ultra-pure water for medical or specialized uses, knowing the difference between these two types can help you make an informed decision.
At Mountain Park Spring Water, we understand that having clean, safe, and great-tasting water is essential for your home or office. Our service offers the convenience of bottled water and filtration systems delivered right to your door, ensuring you always have access to the highest quality water. Staying hydrated and healthy with Mountain Park Spring Water has never been easier. So why wait? Contact us today and experience the ease and benefits of having premium water and filtration solutions delivered to your doorstep. Remember, the key to a healthier lifestyle starts with the water you drink. Make the smart choice with Mountain Park Spring Water.
