How To Remove Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) from Water

Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that may be present in tap water typically boil off and vaporize during the warm-up cycle and are vented into the air (see step 3 of the distillation process). If any VOCs carry over with the distillate water, they can be effectively removed with the carbon post filter (see step 5). Carbon enhances taste and purity through adsorption, aeration, and degasification.

Most tap water contains either no VOCs or extremely low levels. VOCs are measured in parts per billion and are virtually undetectable when vented during the distillation cycle. Far more VOCs may be discharged into the air from running hot tap water or from a hot shower. If airborne volatiles is still a concern, the use of a carbon prefilter will help get rid of VOCs in water prior to distillation. The distiller could also be used in a remote location (i.e., utility room, garage, or screened porch).

All Waterwise distillers have coconut shell carbon, post filtration to effectively get rid of VOCs in water. Another option to consider would be a direct line hookup, fully automatic Waterwise 7000 distiller with an in-line carbon prefilter.

Carbon filtration before distillation is highly recommended if there are high concentrations of known (or suspected) VOCs where you will be operating your distiller.

Distillation process

1. Ordinary tap water is heated to 212° F (100° C) killing microbes such as bacteria, cysts, and viruses that may be present.
2. Steam rises, leaving behind dead microbes, dissolved solids, salts, heavy metals, and other substances.
3. Some low-boiling light gases (VOCs) are discharged through the gaseous vent.
4. Steam vapor is condensed.
5. Purified/distilled water then percolates through an organic, coconut-shell carbon filter, enhancing quality by aeration, degasification, and adsorption of VOCs (volatile organic compounds).
6. The steam-distilled water is then collected in the collector bottle (not shown), ready to enjoy.