Since renewable energy sources are becoming more expensive, it’s imperative that we find a new source that is more sustainable and cheaper. This is why researchers have come with this new natural solution that will keep your money in your pocket. Solar energy is gaining popularity among companies, governments, and scientists. Harnessing solar energy is free from any kind of pollution and it can be used for a long period of time as the sun is here to stay.

One-tenth of the world’s population lacks clean water. America isn’t safe either. Tap water contains contaminants and bacteria which is damaging to our health. Children and elderly that are exposed to the bacteria found in the water can potentially develop fatal diseases. This is no longer at risk to happen as the raw materials cost less than $2 per square meter. This means that it’s accessible even to those who are not willing to spend a lot of money.

How It Works

Broadly speaking, ultraviolet light destroys the formation of microorganisms. Therefore, it prevents them from forming and rendering the ones that exist already. The World Health Organization presents this system as one of the most efficient ways to reduce the bacteria in the water at a minimal price. At a large scale, solar powered water filters operate with the help of natural energy given by sun that is gathered through solar panels. They are positioned in direct sunlight for superior efficiency.

The solar power will heat up the water and it makes it suitable for drinking. It uses two systems in the process. It removes bacteria, viruses, protozoa, and worms. Additionally, the infrared radiation raises the water temperature to ensure that all microorganisms are removed.

Effects of UV-radiation

Even though it has the word radiation, it doesn’t mean that it’s damaging to our health. When it comes in contact with the microorganism, the light will damage its cellular function. The pathogens cannot adapt to aggressive environmental conditions so they will not be able to resist. Therefore, the light will be able to remove all of the harmful bacteria and viruses. The UV-A radiation will directly interact with their DNA leaving no traces that can be harmful to humans. In addition to this, it also reacts with the oxygen dissolved in the water and it produces highly reactive forms of oxygen. Thus, ensuring water that is beneficial to us.

Effects of High Temperature

It’s very important to understand that even though solar power light is efficient to kill a number of microorganisms, it won’t kill every single one. Microorganisms such as Cryptosporidium and Giardia have protective thick cell walls that some UV light cannot penetrate. Some bacteria are very sensitive to heat. Whilst the second stage of filtration will not heat up the water at a high maximum temperature, it will heat it up to a maximum of 60-degrees Celsius.

Portable Solar-Powered Water Filters

They are much smaller but they are still capable of distilling the water just as good as a large-scale one. All that you will need to do is to fill the container with contaminated water and lay it in the sun. After 5 hours, an indicator light will show you either red or green. The colors will show you whether the water is suitable for consumption. Since the world and climate are changing so fast, this is a good idea to have in case of emergency or critical situations.

Benefits

The reason why it’s so effective is due to the fact that it destroys up to 99.99% of microorganisms. It’s also environmentally friendly as it’s an alternative to chlorine disinfection and byproducts. It’s very reliable as it can work 24/7 even if there’s no sun. The ones that you can install in your home are constructed to retain the light until sunrise. As well as, portable water filters have batteries integrated inside. Additionally, it’s also:

• Safe as there are no chemicals involved
• FDA approved
• It doesn’t use excessive amounts of water

One of the greatest things about it is the fact that it’s cost effective. You don’t have to spend a large sum of money on maintenance or up-keeping. Once that you install it, it only requires an annual service that is quick and easy.