Is Boiling Water Better Than Using a Purifier?

Is boiling water really enough to keep my family safe? Or is it time to get a water purifier?
In this article, we're going to explore a debate many Kenyan families have had: Is boiling water better than using a purifier? Let’s break it down using everyday logic, with just the right amount of science.

Boiling Water: The Good Old Tradition What Boiling Removes

Our parents and grandparents swore by boiling. And they weren’t wrong. Boiling water:

• Kills most bacteria, viruses, and parasites
• Can be done with a kettle, jiko, or even over firewood

What Boiling Doesn’t Do

• Boiling doesn’t remove heavy metals or chemicals
• It does nothing for the taste or odor Water Purifiers: The Modern-Day Upgrade Types of Water Purifiers

You can choose from:

• RO systems – Removes salts, heavy metals, and bacteria
• UV filters – Great for killing germs
• UF filters – Good for visible dirt and microbes
• Carbon filters – Makes water taste fresh by removing chlorine

Boiling vs Water Purifier Effectiveness

Boiling kills germs. Purifiers do that and more they clean out chemicals and improve taste. So if you’re after total protection, purifiers win.

Cost and Energy

Boiling seems cheap until you calculate the cost of gas, charcoal, or electricity. Plus, time. Purifiers need an upfront investment, but they save you time and money in the long run.

Environmental Impact

Boiling over charcoal? Not great for the environment. Bottled water? Worse. A purifier reduces waste and carbon footprint.

When Boiling Still Wins

• If you're camping or traveling upcountry
• Emergencies where no purifier is available

When a Purifier Makes More Sense

• Daily use
• If you rely on borehole or river water
• If your water has a funny smell or taste
• Families with kids or elderly folks

Boiling works. But if you want to go beyond just killing germs to remove chemicals, metals, and make your water actually taste good a purifier is your best friend. Boil when you must. Purify when you can. And always, always put your health first.