Drinking water daily is essential for our health and wellbeing. But as tap water can contain a wide range of contaminants that can cause us harm, many consumers opt for purified water as a healthier option.

That leaves us with two alternatives: distilled and filtered water. While they are both forms of purified water, their qualities, characteristics, and health benefits differ. So which one's the best for you?

In this article, you’ll learn:

• Is Filtered Water and Distilled Water the Same?
• What Water Purification Process is Used to Produce Distilled Water and Filtered Water?
• What is the Difference Between Distilled and Filtered Water?
• Can You Drink Distilled Water?
• Why You Should Use Filtered Water Instead of Distilled Water for Drinking

Is Filtered Water and Distilled Water the Same?

No, filtered water and distilled water aren’t the same. While both filtered and distilled water have undergone processes to remove contaminants that may be present, filtered and distilled water are not the same thing. The primary difference between the two lies in the methods used to purify the water and the types of contaminants each method removes.

What Water Purification Process is Used to Produce Distilled Water and Filtered Water?

Distilled water and filtered water are produced using two different processes. Distilled water comes as a result of distillation, while filtered water is obtained through filtration. Let’s take a closer look at those processes:

Water Distillation

The process of distillation involves heating the water to create steam, which is then captured and condensed back into liquid form, leaving most contaminants behind.

This method effectively removes inorganic compounds, many chemicals, and biological contaminants, resulting in highly pure water.

This also means that distilled water lacks the minerals found in filtered water, often giving it a flat taste. It is typically used in laboratory, medical, and industrial settings where high purity is essential.

Here you can learn more about what is distilled water.

Water Filtration

By “filtered” we mean water passed through various filters that remove impurities and contaminants based on their size, charge, or chemical properties.

The filtration process can include such methods as activated carbon filters, reverse osmosis, and ultraviolet (UV) purification.

These filters can remove a wide range of contaminants, including sediments, chlorine, organic compounds, and some bacteria and viruses, while often retaining beneficial minerals that contribute to the water's taste and health benefits.

Filtered water is commonly used for drinking, cooking, and general household purposes. You can learn more about what is filtered water here.

What is the Difference Between Distilled and Filtered Water?

Now that we know that filtered and distilled water are produced using two different processes and are not the same thing, let’s find out more about these two types of water. Here’s a detailed comparison of the two:

Distilled Water Contaminant Removal

Distillation is a highly effective method for purifying water and removes a broad range of contaminants, including:

• Inorganic compounds such as salts (e.g. sodium, calcium, magnesium, and potassium), and heavy metals (e.g. lead, mercury, arsenic, and cadmium).
• Pathogenic microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, and parasites.
• Chemicals such as chlorine and chloramines, industrial chemicals and solvents, and other volatile organic compounds (VOCs).
• Organic compounds such as pesticides and herbicides, and pharmaceutical residues.
• Radionuclides such as radium and uranium, which are often found in groundwater in certain areas.
• Particulates and sediments such as suspended particles like sand, silt, and rust. They don't vaporize and are left behind in the boiling chamber.

While distillation is effective at removing a wide range of contaminants, making it a reliable method for producing highly pure water, it can be less effective against certain volatile organic compounds that have boiling points close to water. In these cases, additional filtration, such as activated carbon, may be needed to ensure their complete removal.

Characteristics and Uses of Distilled Water

Distilled water is considered a high-purity liquid, as almost all minerals and impurities are removed during distillation, leaving only pure H2O.

This may be beneficial for certain applications that require high-purity water, such as laboratories, medical facilities, and specific industrial processes. The catch is that it can leave the water with a bland, flat taste due to the lack of minerals that give water its flavor.

Filtered Water Contaminant Removal

Filtration is a versatile and effective method for removing a wide range of contaminants from water. However, not all filters are created equal.

The effectiveness of filtration depends on the specific type of filtration technology used and the contaminants present in the water. By selecting the appropriate filtration method, water can be significantly purified to meet various needs and standards.

For example, the Berkey home water filtration system fitted with Black Berkey filter elements is capable of removing over 200 common drinking water contaminants, including:

• Inorganic compounds such as nitrate and nitrite, and heavy metals such as lead, mercury, arsenic, cadmium, iron, and manganese.
• Pathogenic microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, and protozoa and parasites such as Giardia and Cryptosporidium.
• Chemicals such as chlorine and chloramines, VOCs such as benzene, trichloroethylene, and other solvents.
• Organic compounds including total organic carbon (TOC), organic pesticides and herbicides, pharmaceutical residues, and disinfection byproducts, such as trihalomethanes (THMs) which form as a result of chlorination during water treatment.
• Radionuclides such as radium and uranium, which are present in some groundwater systems.
• Particulates and sediments such as sand, silt, clay, rust particles, and suspended solids that cause turbidity.
• Bad taste and odor compounds such as hydrogen sulfide and chlorine.

While filtration is effective at removing a broad spectrum of contaminants, it is less effective at removing dissolved salts and minerals. This is not necessarily a drawback, as it leaves minerals that contribute to the taste of water and benefits our health.

It is also important to note that additional filters, such as the Berkey PF-2 fluoride and arsenic filters, may be needed to remove fluoride and arsenic if you are concerned about these contaminants in your tap water.

Characteristics and Uses of Filtered Water

Water filtration systems can be tailored to address specific water quality issues, making them a versatile option for home use. Depending on the filtration method, filtered water retains some minerals, which can improve the taste of the water and be beneficial for health.

Consequently, filtered water generally tastes better than distilled water and is the healthier option due to the presence of minerals. Filtered water is suitable for drinking, cooking, and general household use.

Comparison Summary Between Distilled and Filtered Water

	Distilled Water	Filtered Water
Purity	High purity, nearly all contaminants removed.	High purity but retains some beneficial minerals; effectiveness depends on the filter type.
Taste	Flat or bland due to lack of minerals.	Often preferred for drinking due to retained minerals.
Uses	Ideal for laboratory, medical, and industrial applications requiring pure water.	Suitable for everyday household use, including drinking and cooking.
Cost & Convenience	Can be more expensive and less convenient due to the energy-intensive distillation process.	Generally more cost-effective and convenient, with various filtration systems available for home use.

Choosing between distilled and filtered water depends on the specific needs and preferences regarding purity, taste, and use.

Can You Drink Distilled Water?

While you can theoretically drink distilled water without any side effects over the short term, it may not be safe to drink distilled water for extended periods due to the lack of minerals required by the body for healthy functioning.

Why You Should Use Filtered Water Instead of Distilled Water for Drinking

If you are concerned about the quality of your tap water, filtration should be your go-to option for high-quality drinking water.

There are several benefits of drinking filtered water, including the health benefits associated with the lack of contaminants, such as improved hydration, digestive health, and cognitive function. There are also numerous environmental gains due to reduced plastic waste, lower greenhouse gas emissions, and conservation of natural resources. This way, you support your own health and the health of the planet.

So, ready to enhance the quality of your drinking water? Check out our Berkey water filter systems and choose the perfect solution for your home.

Distilled Water vs Filtered Water: FAQ

Is distilled water the same as filtered?

No. Distilled water has been purified by distillation, whereas filtered water has been purified by filtration.

What is the difference between distilled water and filtered water?

Distilled water contains no minerals or salts, whereas filtered water contains beneficial salts and minerals required by the body to replace those lost through sweating and urination.

Can I use distilled water instead of filtered water?

Yes, but only for a limited time, as it does not contain the beneficial minerals your body needs to maintain optimal healthy functioning.