Water is one of the most important elements on our planet. Every living creature needs it to survive and we never complain about rain because it means life. On our homestead we have spent more time and money ensuring that we have an ongoing source of water than any other item we do. Water keeps us alive, but it can also make us sick or we can even die from drinking bad water. Water must be cared for and protected.
Both of our wells have marginally unsafe levels of coliform, so we do not drink the water. It also has levels of calcium and magnesium so it is hard water. Rain water is collected which also puts dust from the roofs into our water tanks. We prefer using rain water for dishes and showers because it is cleaner and it is soft water. Regardless of the source, we filter all water before drinking.
If you do not have a water purification system here are three methods you can make insure your water is safe to drink. We all know that water can be boiled in order to make it potable. However, this too should be done with care. If you don’t boil it enough it will not be safe to drink and if it is boiled too much it can make the water taste bad. You should bring water to a rolling boil for one minute. At higher altitudes, you should increase the time by 3 minutes for each mile.
Another way to purify water is with water purification tablets. Thirdly, is to add 1/16 teaspoon or two drops of bleach per quart of water. The easiest way which I have used is to put bleach in the container, swish it around, and pour the excess out. What is left is enough to purify the water jug. This method is also good for long term storage. It may not taste the best, but at least it is safe to drink.
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