Disinfection of Water Disinfection of Water Disinfection destroys bacteria and other microorganisms in drinking water. However, it is not a long-term substitute for a safe water supply. If living organisms have contaminated your private well or water supply, proper disinfection kills them. However, it won't reduce nitrates or eliminate other contamination problems. Water can be disinfected with heat, chemicals, or light.
Boiling water kills bacteria and parasites like giardia and cryptosporidium.
Cool and do not contaminate it with dirty utensils, hands or containers after boiling. Boiling water concentrates nitrate levels. Therefore, don't boil if there's nitrate in the water. Water can also be disinfected with chlorine, bromine, iodine, or ozone. Chlorine oxidizes iron and manganese so they can be filtered out.