How to Make a Solar Water Distiller

A solar water distiller is a wonderful way to purify water while saving energy. The process through water is purified is known as passive-solar water distillation. Different kinds of contaminants can be removed from water through this process, including salts, metals and bacteria. A solar water distiller is ideal for those who want to contribute in preserving the environment. It is also perfect for outdoor trips where you cannot carry a water purifier with you. Making a solar water distiller is simple and can be done with basic everyday materials.

Step 1: Get the Base Ready

The first step in making your solar water distiller is to get the base of the apparatus ready. For this, you have to place the smaller bowl or cup inside the large pot or bowl. The smaller bowl acts as the collection cup. Ensure that this bowl is placed firmly inside the larger one. If it doesn’t stay down firmly, you may have to suspend it inside. This can be done by taping it down. Ensure that the smaller bowl does not touch the water that will be filled in the large bowl.

Step 2: Cover the Larger Bowl

Place the smaller bowl in the center of the large one. Fill the large bowl with water from the available source. Cover the large bowl with the translucent food or plastic wrap. Ensure that the plastic wrap does not touch the smaller bowl. You can use a string or a rubber band to secure the wrap around the rim of the larger pot or bowl. Place a small rock, few coins or some weight on top of the covering. You should ideally place the weight in the center of the covering, right over the smaller bowl so that it is slightly bent.

Step 3: Place It in the Sunlight

Place the entire setup in bright sunlight once you have covered the large bowl. Keep it where there is no wind so that the bowl can get heated quickly from solar radiation. Using a black pot or bowl will help to absorb the heat faster and better. You will find the smaller cup filled with some water after a few hours. The water from the larger bowl condenses on the inside of the covering. This condensation then trickles to the center of the covering where there is a depression and drips into the bowl inside.

A solar water distiller may not provide large amounts of water. However, the amount it provides can quench a person’s thirst. When using a solar water distiller, remember that the heating will leave heavier contaminants in the large bowl. Clean the bowl after use.