For Microbiological Purification. Several types of devices are used to improve the aesthetic qualities of drinking water and to remove chemicals. Those that employ an activated carbon filter are the most common, and are usually installed at the point of use. Activated carbon filters are generally more effective in removing organic chemicals. They are often used to improve taste, smell and appearance and are frequently combined with other treatment processes to provide a more complete water treatment system.
Processes employed include reverse osmosis, absorption, ion exchange, and distillation.
This system can remove inorganic chemicals and is often combined with an activated carbon filter to remove chlorine and organic chemicals. Filters containing activated aluminum oxide have recently appeared on the market. These devices are used to remove heavy metals, particularly lead from drinking water. Distillation systems are commonly used to reduce the levels of all chemicals in drinking water. These systems boil water in one compartment and condense the vapour and collect it in another.