How Long to Boil Water For Drinking

Boiling water is a simple and effective method to make it safe for drinking. When you boil water, it kills harmful bacteria, viruses, and parasites that can cause illness. However, it’s important to know how long to boil water for it to be safe to drink. In this blog post, we’ll cover the basics of boiling water for drinking.

How long to boil water for drinking?

Water should be boiled for at least one minute to kill any harmful pathogens. If you are at an altitude of 6,562 feet (2,000 meters) or higher, you should boil the water for at least three minutes. This is because water boils at a lower temperature at higher altitudes, which means that it may not reach a high enough temperature to kill all the pathogens.

Steps for boiling water for drinking:

1. Start with clean water.

Before boiling water for drinking, make sure it is clean. If you are unsure of the water’s safety, use a filter or purification tablets to remove any contaminants.

2. Bring the water to a rolling boil.

Place the water in a pot and bring it to a rolling boil. A rolling boil means that the water is boiling vigorously, with large bubbles that cannot be stirred down.

3. Boil for at least one minute.

Once the water has reached a rolling boil, keep it boiling for at least one minute. If you are at an altitude of 6,562 feet (2,000 meters) or higher, boil the water for at least three minutes.

4. Let the water cool.

After boiling the water, let it cool to room temperature. You can speed up the cooling process by placing the pot in a basin of cold water or by placing it in the refrigerator.

5. Store the water.

Once the water has cooled, pour it into a clean, sanitized container with a tight-fitting lid. Store the water in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.

Additional Tips:

• Boiling water can concentrate certain minerals and chemicals, such as nitrates and arsenic. If you are concerned about these contaminants, consider using a water filter or purifier instead of boiling water.
• If you are using a stove to boil water, make sure that the pot is not too small for the burner. A small pot can heat unevenly and can be a fire hazard.
• Boiled water can taste flat. You can improve the taste by pouring the water back and forth between two clean containers to aerate it.

In conclusion, boiling water is a simple and effective method to make it safe for drinking. Make sure to boil the water for at least one minute (or three minutes if you are at a high altitude) and store it properly. By following these basic steps, you can ensure that your drinking water is safe and free from harmful pathogens.