Simple DIY Survival Water Filter Guide

Before using solar water purification, it’s essential to filter out dirt and particulates from the water and make it clear enough for solar water disinfection to be effective. Here’s how to make a basic Survival Water Filter using natural or commonly found materials:

1. Gather Materials: You will need a container, small pebbles, sand, charcoal, and a piece of cloth or grass for filtration layers.
2. Layer the Filter:
   • At the bottom of your container, place a cloth or grass layer to catch large particles and stop your filter media from pouring out.
   • Add a layer of very fine sand.
   • Follow with a layer of fine pebbles.
   • Add a layer of fine charcoal (from a fire) for further filtration.
   • repeat with slightly larger more coarse sand if possible
   • repeat with slightly larger pebbles if possible
     
   • repeat with slightly larger pieces of charcoal
   • place cloth or packed grass on the very top to filter out the largest particles first before it gets down into the filter
3. Pour the Water: Pour contaminated water slowly through the filter. The layers will trap dirt, debris, and larger impurities, resulting in clearer water. This water is not ready for drinking, but is now ready to be disinfected via boiling, or for solar disinfection. This method also helps increase the longevity of commercial filters by reducing the strain put on them.

Solar Water Purification Guide

Solar water purification, also known as solar water disinfection (SODIS), uses the sun's UV rays to kill harmful microorganisms in contaminated water. Here's how to purify water using this method:

1. Use a Clear Plastic or Glass Bottle: Fill a clear container (like a plastic bottle) with water, ensuring it’s not too murky. If the water is turbid, it must be filtered first to remove particulates.
2. Use Clear Water: You should be able to look through your container, from the top, down through the bottom and read the headline on a newspaper. If the water is so cloudy you cannot, then light cannot penetrate deeply enough for disinfection. The water needs to be filtered further to clarify it and make it suitable for solar water purification.
3. Expose to Direct Sunlight: Place the container in full sunlight on a reflective surface like metal or a light-colored stone to maximize UV exposure. The water should be left in the sun for 6 to 12 hours, depending on the weather (longer in cloudy conditions).
4. Allow Time for Disinfection: The UV rays from the sun will kill bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens. After exposure, the water is ready for consumption.

FAQ

Q: How long does solar water purification take?
A: In direct sunlight, solar disinfection usually takes 6 to 12 hours. On cloudy days, it may take longer for the water to be fully disinfected.

Q: Can I use any plastic bottle for solar water purification?
A: It is best to use clear PET plastic or glass bottles. Avoid colored or opaque bottles, as they block the UV rays necessary for disinfection.

Q: What materials do I need for a Survival Water Filter?
A: You can create a simple water filter using pebbles, sand, charcoal, and cloth or grass. These materials can be commonly found in the wild.

Q: Does solar water purification remove chemicals from water?
A: No, solar disinfection only kills bacteria, viruses, and microorganisms. It does not remove chemical pollutants, so it’s best to avoid using contaminated sources with known chemical exposure.

Q: How often should I replace the materials in the Survival Water Filter?
A: Replace the filter layers after several uses, especially the charcoal and cloth, to ensure proper filtration.

About Grim Workshop

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