Water Filtration Planner
Select your primary water source for treatment recommendations.
Select based on number of people and urgency.
Contaminant Removal Reference
| Material | Sediment | Bacteria | Viruses | Chemicals | Heavy Metals | Taste | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sand (fine) | 95% | 80% | 60% | 30% | 25% | 70% | |||||||
| Charcoal (activated) | 40% | 10% | 5% | 85% | 75% | 95% | Cotton cloth | 85% | 5% | 0% | 0% | 0% | 0% |
| Gravel (coarse) | 100% | 0% | 0% | 0% | 0% | 0% | |||||||
| Bleach/Clorox | 0% | 99.9% | 99.9% | 0% | 0% | 0% | |||||||
| Boiling | 0% | 100% | 100% | 0% | 0% | 0% |
Percentages are typical removal rates for clean, properly maintained filters. Actual performance varies with material quality, flow rate, and contact time.
Sample Designs
River Water, Family Use
Muddy river with bacteria risk. Flow: 5 GPH.
Layers: Gravel → Sand → Cotton → Charcoal
Maintenance: Replace sand monthly, reburn charcoal every 6 weeks.
Lake Water, Small Group
Clear lake water with chemical taste. Flow: 2 GPH.
Layers: Gravel → Sand → Charcoal
Maintenance: Replace charcoal every 4 weeks.
Rainwater, Individual
Clean rainwater with taste issues. Flow: 1 GPH.
Layers: Cloth pre-filter → Charcoal
Maintenance: Replace charcoal every 8 weeks.
Key Tips for Success
- Always pre-filter: Use coarse materials first to extend filter life.
- Let water settle: 4-6 hours of stillness removes 90% of sediment.
- Test before drinking: If water is visibly polluted, boil after filtration.
- Store clean water: Keep treated water covered to prevent re-contamination.
- Plan for replacement: Have materials ready for next change.
About This System
This planner helps you design water filtration using locally available materials. No commercial filters required. The design process considers your water source, contaminants present, and flow needs.
Last updated: Version 1.2, March 2026
Assumptions: Materials are clean and dry. Flow rates assume proper filter area. Contaminant removal is typical, not guaranteed.
Before acting: Boil water with chemical contamination or if sick. Consult local health authorities for specific requirements.