When you shop through links on our site, we may receive compensation. This educational content is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice or consultation.

8 Best Water Distillers of 2024

Updated
A water distiller can give you safe-to-drink water — wherever you are.

People have been innovating ways to make their water cleaner and safer for thousands of years. Distillation is one of the oldest and most reliable methods available to us, and modern technology has made it more effective than ever.

Distillation is a relatively simple process but modern distillers also offer additional features such as extra filters to ensure your water is as clean as possible. These features are helpful, but you might not know which ones will make a significant difference to your distiller’s performance.

In this article, we will examine the different types of water distillers and what you should be looking for. We will also share our reviews of what we consider the best water distillers available today, chosen for their effectiveness, capacity, and price.

Our Top Picks

We independently evaluate, assess and research all recommended products and services. If you purchase through the links we provide, we may receive compensation.
Image
Model
Product Comparison Table
Features

Product Image of the Megahome Countertop
Best Stainless Steel
Megahome Countertop
  • Porcelain-lined nozzle
  • High-quality charcoal filters
  • UL-approved
Product Image of the H2oLabs Stainless Steel
Best Charcoal Filter
H2oLabs Stainless Steel
  • Optimized heating element
  • BPA-free
  • Carbon filter pods
Product Image of the Rovsun Countertop
Best Budget Buy
Rovsun Countertop
  • Processes 1 gallon in 4 hours
  • Auto-off feature
  • Quiet operation
Product Image of the H2o Labs Water Distiller
Easiest to Fill
H2o Labs Water Distiller
  • Scale-resistant boiling tray
  • Process in four hours
  • Added safety features
Product Image of the Vevor Countertop
Great for Traveling
Vevor Countertop
  • Carrying handle
  • Thermostatically-controlled
  • 1 gallon per 4 hours
Product Image of the Vevor Moonshine
Best Non-Electric
Vevor Moonshine
  • 9.6-gallon capacity
  • Open-system cooling
  • Dual temperature display
Product Image of the Mophorn Countertop Stainless Steel
Easiest Operation
Mophorn Countertop Stainless Steel
  • 750-watt heating element
  • Features an on/off switch
  • Food-grade materials
Product Image of the CO-Z Stainless Steel
Best FDA-Approved
CO-Z Stainless Steel
  • No additional filter
  • Auto-off feature
  • Quick but thorough

Review Methodology: At Sensible Digs, we understand the importance of clean water, and we’ve put our years of experience to work testing and analyzing the best water distillers on the market. Our professional team conducted hands-on assessments, using strict benchmarks and criteria, including water purity, speed of distillation, and usability, to rank and review each product. We provide a detailed comparison of each distiller’s performance, design choices, and standout features, backed by data and firsthand evidence. Our goal is to help you make an informed decision, highlighting key factors that set the top contenders apart. Trust our findings and evaluation, because your health is our priority.



Best Water Distiller Reviews of 2024

It’s time to take a closer look at our favorite models in our water distiller reviews. We spent a great deal of time reading user feedback and professional opinions to narrow down the countless models available and bring you these eight excellent units:

Megahome Countertop Water Distiller

Best Stainless Steel Water Distiller

This Megahome countertop water distiller can process 1 gallon of water over the course of 5.5 hours. All interior components are made of stainless steel, and the water doesn’t touch any plastic parts during processing. The collection carafe is made of heavy-duty glass, ensuring it is safe to use.

This model is designed for use with 110–120 volt systems in the United States and Canada. A mains power cord is included, along with a cleanser to tackle residue in the boiling chamber.

What We Like

Porcelain-Lined Nozzle

Many other models feature plastic internal components, but this one has a porcelain insert that lines the nozzle. This porcelain is non-porous and lead-free, meaning the freshly distilled water will collect in the glass carafe without touching plastic.

Using porcelain prevents any contaminants and harmful chemicals sometimes found in plastic from transferring to your newly distilled water. This ensures it stays as pure as possible.

High-Quality Charcoal Filters

In addition to effectively distilling your water, this model features a charcoal filter. The charcoal filter further cleanses and purifies your water, ensuring it is as clean and safe as possible. This product includes several replacement sachets, enough to filter your water for about six months.

UL-Approved

This model is fully approved by the Underwriters Laboratory (UL). The UL is one of the most trusted independent testing facilities in the United States. They apply stringent safety standards to ensure products are fit for purpose and safe for users (1).

It is important to note that many homeowner’s insurance policies require your home appliances to be certified by the UL. To ensure you comply with your insurance provider’s requirements, always opt for a certified product where possible.

Automatic Turn-Off

To keep your home and family safe, this model is equipped with an auto-off safety feature. Once the distillation cycle is complete, the water chamber will be empty. Without any water, the breaker trips and turns off the distiller to prevent the element from overheating.

Although this model provides an auto-off feature, it doesn’t actually have an on and off switch. You will need to plug and unplug it when you want to distill your water.

What We Don't Like

Assembly Is Required

This water distiller is not pre-assembled, and the assembly is quite complicated. You will need to make sure you have the necessary tools to put the distiller together. If you have limited experience or are concerned about the assembly process, it is worth asking someone to assist you.

It’s Noisy

It takes longer than 5 hours to distill a single gallon of water using this model. If your water distiller will be placed in an area where you work or relax, it is important to know that this model is quite loud.

Product Specs

Dimensions 10 inches by 10 inches by 14 inches
Weight 11 pounds
Type Countertop
Capacity 1 gallon
Additional Features Auto-off; carbon filter

Our Ratings

Distillation Efficiency
4 / 5
Capacity
3.5 / 5
Durability
4.5 / 5
Ease of Use
3.5 / 5
Total Rating
3.75 / 5

User Experience

This distiller provides an oddly satisfying experience, distilling about 2 gallons of tap water into crystal clear, safe-to-drink water over 4-5 hours. After using a TDS meter for testing, I was amazed to find that the distilled water had a TDS result of zero, meaning the distiller removed absolutely everything from the water. However, aligning the output spout of the distiller with the spout of the pitcher can be a bit tricky, and if not done correctly, it can lead to a spill; but, with careful setup and operation, it continues to deliver excellent results.

H2oLabs Stainless Steel Water Distiller

Best Charcoal Filter

Made of stainless steel and BPA-free plastic, this water distiller provides a 1-gallon capacity and a glass carafe.

The carafe has an easy-lift handle that is ergonomic and comfortable to hold. A porcelain nozzle keeps your water as pure as possible by preventing distilled water from coming into contact with any plastic components.

This model uses carbon filters to clean your water more thoroughly. When you purchase this product, you also receive a full year’s supply of replacement filters.

What We Like

Optimized Heating Element

Some distillers on the market use a more substantial heat source but this can boil the water too quickly. When water boils too rapidly, VOCs and other contaminants can be released back into it, leaving you with inferior distilled water.

BPA-Free

You won’t need to worry about your distilled water being contaminated as it won’t come into contact with any plastic components. As an extra guarantee, all of the plastic used to construct this water distiller is BPA-free. If your water does somehow come into contact with the plastic, rest assured that it is entirely food-safe.

Exceptional Carbon Pods

Committed to providing the best water quality possible, H2oLabs uses a carbon filter to further refine your drinking water. Some models offer similar filtration, but these pods last twice as long on average. In addition to lasting longer, these carbon pods also provide three times the filtering power.

Easy to Clean

Many water distillers feature parts that are difficult to reach and clean. This unit has large openings to provide easy access to the chamber and carafe, allowing for more efficient and effective cleaning.

In addition to its cleaner-friendly design, this product also includes a large jar of special cleaning crystals. These crystals are non-toxic and designed to combat the scaling that is often caused by hard water.

What We Don't Like

Only for Use in North America

This model is designed exclusively for use with 110–120 volt systems in North America. It is not safe for use in countries that have 220–240 volt electrical supplies. On a similar note, this distiller should not be used with an adapter.

On the Slow Side

It takes 6 hours for this water distiller to process 1 gallon of drinking water. This is slower than average and means it can provide a maximum of 4 gallons of distilled water per day.

Product Specs

Dimensions 16.5 inches by 12 inches by 11.3 inches
Weight 13.18 pounds
Type Countertop
Capacity 1 gallon
Additional Features Cleaning crystals; carbon filters; BPA-free

Our Ratings

Distillation Efficiency
4 / 5
Capacity
3.5 / 5
Durability
4.5 / 5
Ease of Use
4 / 5
Total Rating
4 / 5

Personal Perspective

My experience using this water distiller has been largely positive, with the product delivering commendable performance. It consistently produces about 3 gallons of distilled water daily, which I use for various purposes, including in my coffee maker and for my houseplants. Although cleaning it requires some attention, with a bit of vinegar and dish soap, the distiller remains in good condition and continues to efficiently remove minerals from my hard tap water.

Rovsun Countertop Water Distiller

Best Budget Water Distiller

Made of food-grade BPA-free plastic and stainless steel, this model provides quick distillation. A built-in charcoal filter improves the quality of your water as it undergoes the distillation process. This product includes both charcoal filter sachets and a cleaning solution for use in the water chamber.

Easy to use, this model is equipped with push-button operation and an auto-off feature. Assembly is simple and straightforward, and the chamber is easy to clean when required.

What We Like

Exceptional Processing Rate

While some home water distillers can take several hours to process a single gallon of water, this model can provide a gallon of water in about four hours. This allows you to process 6 gallons of water per day, which is significantly more than most of its competitors.

High Heating Power

The high heating capability accelerates the distilling process and allows this model to provide processed water more quickly. More power requires extra safety, so this distiller is equipped with an auto-off feature that prevents the element from overheating and burning out when no water is left.

Quiet Running

Distillers can be very noisy, but this one has a quiet motor that makes it ideal for use in living areas.

With its quiet operation and auto-off feature, this model is even suitable for running at night while you sleep. This can be very useful if your electrical supplier offers discounted rates late at night.

Great Warranty

This product includes a 12-month guarantee that protects against product failure and customer dissatisfaction. If you encounter any unexpected issues with your unit, you can return it for a full refund. This removes any risk from purchasing this product, especially as distillers can vary in performance significantly.

What We Don't Like

Running Costs

With a 750-watt heating element, this model consumes a significant amount of energy during use. This can quickly add up, especially if your electrical supplier increases its rates during peak hours. Consider your bills when comparing this to other models and determine whether or not you need the extra water-processing power.

Double-Check the Metal Funnel

A small metal piece sits between the processing unit and the collection carafe. It is essential that this piece is positioned correctly or water will spill out from the carafe. This can quickly waste your distilled water, make a mess, and waste energy.

Product Specs

Dimensions 9.1 inches by 9.1 inches by 15.3 inches
Weight 10.6 pounds
Type Countertop
Capacity 1 gallon
Additional Features Chamber cleaning powder; power cord; filter; auto-off

Our Ratings

Distillation Efficiency
4.5 / 5
Capacity
4 / 5
Durability
4 / 5
Ease of Use
4.5 / 5
Total Rating
4.25 / 5

Community Feedback

When I first got this distiller, I was thrilled at the idea of not worrying about post-pandemic shortages. While it's slightly larger than most, the convenient on/off switch for AC power is a definite plus. However, be warned, it does get quite loud and heats up the room, so we run it during the day when everyone is gone. The only other drawback is that cleaning is a bit tedious, especially with well water, as it requires cleaning after each use, but overall, this distiller has proven to be a worthy investment.

H2o Labs Water Distiller

Easiest to Fill

When you invest in a water distiller, you want something effortless to refill. This one easily disconnects from the base. It has a wide opening and is shallow enough that you can fit it underneath the kitchen tap. Turn on the water and let it fill up. Done and dusted!

However, with the Model 200 version, you can fill it back up without removing it from the base. It has a reservoir that connects to a water-feed valve, so you can leave it on the counter to refill.

Another thing we like is that it’s super easy to use, as well. It even has an LED indicator to let you know when you need to reset the distiller.

Lastly, you can set this and forget. It will continuously fill the boiling tray until it’s made one gallon. Then it will automatically turn off, so you don’t have to think twice.

What We Like

Scale-Resistant Boiling Tray

If you find that your water is hard and full of minerals, you’re probably familiar with limescale buildup. Well, this distiller has a stick-resistant boiling tray that minimizes scale buildup. Less cleaning for you!

Only Needs Cleaned Every Six Cycles

You can clean this distiller less often compared to other models. Because the heating element is in water, it prevents limescale and dirt buildup. It’s much easier to rinse it away.

Therefore, you only need to deep clean the distiller every six cycles, compared to every single cycle.

Process In Four Hours

Many models take ages to process a gallon of water. But this model can process one gallon in four hours, or do up to five gallons daily. This is super quick! It even begins processing distilled water in as little as five minutes.

Added Safety Features

You can rest easy with setting and forgetting this machine. Firstly, it has thermal overload protection to prevent overheating. It also turns off automatically when a cycle is complete. Last but not least, the boiling tray is made from thermoplastic, so it won’t melt or warp.

What We Don't Like

More Expensive

Compared to other water distillers, this is quite the price jump. If you’re on a budget, you may want to skip this option. Though, for what you get, we do think it’s worth it.

Pads and Filters Need Replacing Often

Despite the initial investment, it’s also expensive to upkeep this appliance. The pads and filters need to be replaced very often, around monthly.

Cheap-Feeling Plastic Material

While the plastic used is durable and long-lasting, it still has a cheap flimsy feel to it. Customers notice that it wobbles about on the countertop when nudged, or when the machine is on. It doesn’t feel super expensive or quality. Some people prefer a stainless steel appliance.

Product Specs

Dimensions 15.94 inches by 12.6 inches 12.17 inches
Weight 8.57 pounds
Type Countertop
Capacity 1 gallon
Additional Features LED indicator, lift-out tank, continuous water-feed valve, auto turn-off

Our Ratings

Distillation Efficiency
4.5 / 5
Capacity
4 / 5
Durability
4 / 5
Ease of Use
4.5 / 5
Total Rating
4.25 / 5

First-Hand Impression

Bought this distiller with high hopes, but was met with a few challenges. Firstly, cleaning this device is a task, especially if you're running well water through it - it's a bear to scrub off the mineral deposits. The base is a bit finicky as well, often coming apart or leaking if not perfectly aligned, particularly on an uneven surface. On the bright side, its compact design is a plus, and it does its primary job of distilling water quite well. I noticed a marked improvement in the taste of my water, which was a joy. However, durability is a concern, with the heating element giving out after several months of use, leading to a frustrating end to my distilling journey.

Vevor Countertop Water Distiller

Best Water Distiller for Traveling

This Vevor countertop distiller is ideal for portable, efficient water distillation, as it is compact and lightweight. It’s made of stainless steel and plastic, with all plastics being used food-grade and BPA-free. With push-button use, this water distiller is straightforward to operate.

This model is equipped with an aluminum fan that helps dissipate heat, providing more efficient processing. The fan also cools your water, meaning it will be ready to drink from more quickly than most distillers.

What We Like

Convenient and Portable

Designed for travel, this portable water distiller has a carrying handle for easier relocating. The handle folds down when not in use, resulting in a shorter unit and a more streamlined look. The distiller as a whole is lighter than many of its competitors, adding to its portability.

Thermostatically Controlled

An internal thermostat monitors your water distiller’s temperature while it is in operation. If the distiller reaches 300 degrees Fahrenheit, the machine is automatically turned off. This prevents burnout and damage to your water distiller machine, thus reducing the risk of fire.

Fast Distillation

With a 750-watt heating element, this unit is capable of producing a single gallon of distilled water in four hours. The aluminum fan provides faster cool-down, making it drinkable more quickly. This also allows you to quickly transfer the water and start distilling more.

Multi-Purpose Model

This is an excellent choice for providing drinking water, but it is also suitable for other purposes. The rapid distillation makes it ideal for standard household use as well as medical functions. CPAP machines, irons, humidifiers, and floor mops can all make use of the water distilled by this product.

What We Don't Like

Not Easy to Clean

You will need to access the inside of the water chamber to clean out the impurities left behind by distillation. Unfortunately, it’s hard to access and the chamber doesn’t separate easily from the rest of the distiller. This means you will need to maneuver the entire unit when cleaning it.

As well as the chamber, the carafe requires regular cleaning. Unfortunately, it has a narrow opening that makes cleaning more difficult than it should be.

Lid Can Be Tricky to Remove

The lid needs to be removed to fill the chamber, which can be difficult. Consider whether or not you have the ability and the patience to tackle a tricky top before you choose this unit.

It is worth noting that this issue has only been mentioned in some customer reviews, so it might be more difficult for people with limited hand dexterity.

Product Specs

Dimensions 18.3 inches by 13.2 inches by 10.5 inches
Weight 9.8 pounds
Type Countertop
Capacity 1 gallon
Additional Features Thermostatically controlled; auto-off; aluminum fan

Our Ratings

Distillation Efficiency
4 / 5
Capacity
2.5 / 5
Durability
3.5 / 5
Ease of Use
3 / 5
Total Rating
3.25 / 5

User Experience

After purchasing this water distiller, I found it efficiently distilled water which significantly improved the taste and purity, especially for my CPAP machine. The process was considerably more convenient and effective than stovetop distillation, and while the machine does slightly warm up the room, it's not a major issue if placed in an unused area. However, the device came with an extremely unclear user manual, leaving me to figure out the function of certain included parts and the cleaning process on my own, which was somewhat frustrating.

Vevor Moonshine Stainless Steel Water Distiller

Best Non-Electric Water Distiller

If you want safe drinking water when you don’t have access to electricity, the Vevor Moonshine distiller is a great option. It has a three-level assembly and can be used on a variety of heat sources, from an open fire to a gas range.

This distiller includes food-grade silicone tubing to complete the setup. It is ideal for regular off-grid travel and during emergencies. Made from sturdy stainless steel, you can be confident that it is tough and durable.

What We Like

High Capacity

Compared to most countertop distiller models, which have limited access to energy, this non-electric model is far more versatile. As it is designed to work with large volumes of water, it heats and processes very quickly. The result is a processing capability of 9.6 gallons of water.

Quick Cooling

Rapid thermal conductivity via the open-system cooling method ensures that the distilled water cools quickly. This means it will be ready to drink much sooner.

Dual Temperature Display

A dual temperature display showing Celcius and Fahrenheit readings is located near the boiler lid, allowing you to monitor the distilling process. This is most helpful when making wine products.

What We Don't Like

Needs to Be Monitored

This isn’t a distiller you can set up and walk away from. It is designed to be used over an open flame, so it should always be closely monitored. On the other hand, an open flame provides considerably more heat, resulting in much faster distillation, so you won’t have to watch it for as long.

Product Specs

Dimensions 17 inches by 17 inches by 17 inches
Weight 15.8 pounds
Type Non-electric
Capacity 9.6 gallons
Additional Features Rapid cooling system, built-in thermometer

Our Ratings

Distillation Efficiency
3.5 / 5
Capacity
5 / 5
Durability
4.5 / 5
Ease of Use
3 / 5
Total Rating
4 / 5

Personal Perspective

If you're in the market for a still, this 3-gallon unit has some quirks but does the job. It's a tight fit under my microwave but I've made it work, although I had to buy extra tubing to reach my sink. Initially, there were some hiccups with discoloration and residue, and I had to partially disassemble it for cleaning. Despite these issues, and the somewhat unclear instructions, I've found the still to be reasonably well-made and effective for distilling water.

Mophorn Countertop Stainless Steel Water Distiller

Easiest Operation

This Mophorn water distiller is quick and easy to set up and operate. It is straightforward to assemble and offers easy access to the water chamber and carafe for cleaning. An auto-off feature prevents burnout and accidental fires.

This product is made of materials including stainless steel and BPA-free plastic. All products are considered food-grade and safe to use. Equipped with additional filtration, this unit provides very high-quality water.

What We Like

Fast With High Capacity

The 750-watt heating element works quickly, able to process 1 gallon of water in just an hour. It will safely turn off your distiller even when it is not being monitored, making it ideal for overnight use. Its capacity will allow you to produce up to 6 gallons of distilled water each day.

Easy to Use

Some water distillers are complicated to put together, but this model offers simple, straightforward assembly. It is equipped with an on/off switch, whereas some other models can only be turned off by being unplugged from the electrical outlet.

Food-Grade Materials

The use of plastic keeps this unit’s weight down and makes it more portable. Great care has been taken to exclusively use food-safe, BPA-free plastic during its construction. In addition to the safe plastic, it also has components made from 304 stainless steel which is recommended for food use (2).

Available in Multiple Colors

Water distillers are usually placed on countertops where they are clearly visible. To ensure it doesn’t lack visual appeal or fails to fit in with your decor, this unit is available in several different colors. Choose the one that will best complement the rest of the room where it will be placed.

What We Don't Like

Container Is Plastic

Although it is food-safe, this product has plastic parts, including the body of the collection carafe. This keeps it lightweight and durable, making it great for traveling purposes. If you prefer to stay plastic-free, you will need to purchase a glass carafe separately.

It’s Loud

This unit has features that make it suitable for overnight use, but its operation is quite loud. Its aluminum fan helps dissipate heat faster and keeps your water jug full, but it also increases the volume.

This issue seems to be quite subjective, with most customer reviews ignoring the noise produced by the unit.

Product Specs

Dimensions 19.2 inches by 14.2 inches by 11.3 inches
Weight 14.4 pounds
Type Countertop
Capacity 1 gallon
Additional Features On/off button; carrying handle; aluminum fan

Our Ratings

Distillation Efficiency
4 / 5
Capacity
4 / 5
Durability
4 / 5
Ease of Use
4.5 / 5
Total Rating
4 / 5

Community Feedback

I've been using this water distiller for a while now, and it's proven to be a pretty solid choice. The external design is user-friendly, with a handy handle on the motor/fan unit that makes it easy to remove, and the on/off buttons are a nice touch. The taste of the water is identical to that of more expensive models, and in a week, I've managed to distill over 12 gallons with a consistently great taste. However, the internal design could use some improvement as the sediment tends to get baked onto the surface, making clean-up a bit of a chore. Sound-wise, it's comparable to other models, and the two cords that come with this unit are of a decent length, adding to the overall convenience.

CO-Z Stainless Steel Water Distiller

Best FDA-Approved Home Water Distiller

Every component used in this water distiller is constructed of food-safe material, as evidenced by its FDA approval. The carafe is made of glass and stainless steel, with a plastic handle to prevent burns. The stainless steel is 304-grade and suitable for use with food.

This model is easy to use, with simple push-button operation and an automatic shut-off feature once the internal temperature reaches 300 degrees.

A 12-month limited warranty is included with this product. If your unit is defective, it can be returned for a free replacement.

Be aware that this model is intended for use exclusively with 120-volt systems.

What We Like

Low-Maintenance and Easy to Clean

There is no need to worry about filter changes with this distiller. You simply add water to the reservoir, and it will be ready to distill your water. Later, the large openings into the initial water chamber and the carafe make cleaning them straightforward.

Powerful and Safe

With its 750-watt heating element, this distiller can process a gallon of water in just four hours.

It is equipped with a thermostatically-controlled auto-off feature, which works well with the powerful heating element. This shuts down the unit before it gets too hot, preventing burnout and fires.

Thorough Purification

This unit works quickly without compromising its ability to purify water effectively. It can remove volatile organic compounds (VOCs), bacteria, and dissolved solids with a single pass. It is important to clean the unit as instructed between uses to ensure it continues working effectively.

Reset Button

This unit’s auto-off feature will turn it off if there is no water left to process in the reservoir. When this happens, the safety reset button is triggered. Once you have refilled the water chamber, you simply press the reset button to reactivate the distiller.

What We Don't Like

Not Intended to Run Unattended

Although this model has a safety auto-off feature, it is not recommended to leave it unsupervised. While it will shut itself off when necessary, it is best to turn it off before the water reaches that level. To ensure the machine reaches its intended service life, keep an eye on it when it is distilling.

No Included Charcoal Filter

While the lack of a charcoal filter does remove some of the hassle and costs that come with filter changes, this isn’t entirely positive. Without a filter, you might need to consider only using water that has previously undergone filtration.

Product Specs

Dimensions 18.9 inches by 11.2 inches by 13.6 inches
Weight 14.62 pounds
Type Countertop
Capacity 1 gallon
Additional Features Safety off; reset button

Our Ratings

Distillation Efficiency
4 / 5
Capacity
2.5 / 5
Durability
4 / 5
Ease of Use
4 / 5
Total Rating
3.5 / 5

First-Hand Impression

My experience with this water distiller has been a mixed bag, to say the least. On one hand, the distiller effectively produces distilled water, as evidenced by a measurement of zero parts per million, but the design and construction of the product, especially the handle and metal straps, leave much to be desired. The loud fan, the difficulty in cleaning, and the lack of clear instructions for included parts resulted in a product that works but does not provide a user-friendly experience.

Product Comparison Chart

Product Best Dimensions Weight
Megahome Countertop Stainless Steel 10″ x 10″ x 14″ 11 lbs
H2oLabs Stainless Steel Charcoal Filter 16.5″ x 12″ x 11.3″ 13.18 lbs
Rovsun Countertop Budget Buy 9.1″ x 9.1″ x 15.3″ 10.6 lbs
H2o Labs Easiest to Fill 15.94″ x 12.6″ x 12.17″ 8.57 lbs
Vevor Countertop For Traveling 18.3″ x 13.2″ x 10.5″ 9.8 lbs
Vevor Moonshine Non-Electric 17″ x 17″ x 17″ 15.8 lbs
Mophorn Countertop Stainless Steel Easiest Operation 19.2″ x 14.2″ x 11.3″ 14.4 lbs
CO-Z Stainless Steel FDA-Approved 18.9″ x 11.2″ x 13.6″ 14.62 lbs

Types of Water Distillers

There are two main types of water distillers, one of which runs on electricity and is usually placed on a counter, similar to a coffee maker. The second type is non-electric and designed to be placed over a heat source, such as a fire or a stove top.

Countertop Distillers

Countertop distillers are self-contained units and need to be connected to an electrical outlet in order to function. To use them, you pour water into a reservoir. When you start the distiller, a heating element is activated, which turns the water into steam and pushes it through the machine’s system.

These distillers are ideal for everyday use. They can also be used to provide water during emergency situations, as long as your home still has electricity. Although these distillers are very effective, they often work slowly, and you will need to manually refill them with water and store the distilled water they produce.

Pros

  • Convenient and easy to operate
  • Economical
  • Portable

Cons

  • Slow
  • Produces water slowly

Non-Electric Distillers

Non-electric distillers are placed over a heat source, usually on a stove when used at home. They work equally well on gas and electric stoves.

In addition to being useful at home, these distillers are also excellent for treating water on the go. As they don’t require electricity, they work well during emergencies or while camping. Unlike countertop models, which can be activated and left to do their work, you will need to keep an eye on non-electric models.

Pros

  • Don’t require an electrical supply
  • Portable

Cons

  • Needs to be monitored
  • Can be expensive

How to Choose the Best Water Distiller

Distillers all operate using the same logic; heat is used to separate water from any contaminants that are present, leaving you with much cleaner water overall. However, there are some important things you should keep in mind when choosing one:

Why You Need A Water Distiller

Do you want a water distiller for everyday use because your water supply isn’t safe to drink without extra treatment? Or, will you only use it occasionally while on camping trips? Taking the time to identify how you will use your water distiller can help you significantly narrow down your options.

Capacity Required

If you only use your distilled water maker occasionally, you might not mind that it has a smaller capacity. On the other hand, if you expect to use it every day, look for a unit with a higher capacity. You don’t want to have to refill the distiller constantly, and the distillation process itself is time-consuming!

Where You Will Use It

If you don’t anticipate ever needing to use your distiller outside your home, you should probably choose a countertop distiller. On the other hand, if you are off-grid every weekend and need a way to purify your water source, you will need a distiller that is portable.

Construction Materials

Many water distillers are constructed primarily from plastic. This provides you with an affordable, sturdy unit that is ideal for taking with you on trips. Alternatively, other models are made using glass and metal. Determine which type is more suitable, and which you prefer, before you start shopping.

Your Budget

Water distillers can be expensive, but there are also numerous budget-friendly models available. Defining a clear budget before you start shopping will make the experience far more straightforward and means you won’t waste time looking at models outside your price range.


Water Distiller FAQs

Does Distilled Water Taste Different?

You may find that distilled water tastes different from the water you usually drink. Distilled water is largely tasteless as it is free from chemicals and minerals (3). If you have been drinking water containing impurities or minerals, you may notice the lack of taste more than anything else.

If you are struggling to get used to the taste, you may find it easier to drink your distilled water cold. Refrigerate it after the distillation process in an airtight container. You may also find that adding a slice of lemon helps you adapt to the new taste.

Do I Need the Minerals the Distillation Process Removes?

You do need the healthy minerals contained in water that are removed by distillation. However, water isn’t the best way to consume those minerals. Instead of turning to water for that nutrition, make sure you are eating properly and consider a vitamin supplement if necessary.

Is a Water Distiller Worth the Money?

Water distillers are relatively inexpensive to operate and require very little maintenance. They provide a great way to continually produce great-tasting water for just a few cents per gallon.

How Long Does It Take to Distill Water?

Distillation does take some time, particularly with an electrical unit. You should expect 1 gallon of water to take 4 to 6 hours to distill. If you anticipate drinking a lot of water, it is best to plan ahead and store some distilled water for later use.

A general rule of thumb is that it takes roughly 10 times longer to distill water than it does to boil it.

Will Distilled Water Leach Minerals?

Some people worry that distilled water will regain the minerals it has lost by leaching them from your body. This isn’t accurate, as water doesn’t “need” those minerals — it simply collects them as it travels through pipes. You can rest assured that there is no scientific evidence suggesting that distilled water can remove essential nutrients from your body.

Are an Alcohol Distiller and Water Distiller the Same?

Although these products are both called distillers, they work at different temperatures. An alcohol distiller heats at lower temperatures — approximately 173 degrees Fahrenheit (4), which means the process takes longer. In comparison, water boils at 212 degrees Fahrenheit (5).

If you want to distill both alcohol and water, you will need two separate distillers.

Are Water Distillers Only for Drinking Water?

Water distillers can be used for a wide range of applications. For example, the naturally occurring minerals in your tap water can stain your floors and counters when you’re cleaning, so you can avoid this by using distilled water instead.

These minerals can also cause unwanted build-up in home appliances, such as humidifiers, coffee makers, and irons. Using distilled water instead of tap water can prolong the life of your appliances, leave your home cleaner, and provide better-tasting beverages.

Is Drinking Distilled Water Healthy?

It is healthy to drink distilled water if you have a balanced diet. Overall, there is no reason to worry about consuming distilled water.

Many individuals in industrialized nations acquire their food and water from a wide range of sources. Distilled water can be consumed by otherwise healthy individuals who maintain a healthy diet.

How Long Do Water Distillers Last?

A water distiller that has been properly maintained should endure for at least ten to fifteen years, and it is not very expensive to replace the carbon postfilter. Distillers for water are some of the more pricey devices to acquire initially. Still, they offer a significant return on investment.

The cost of buying bottled distilled water is significantly higher than that of producing your own distilled water at home. Not to mention that bottled water is not good for the environment and is not a suitable replacement for a real water filtering system.

What Are the Disadvantages of a Water Distiller?

Distillers of water do take up a substantial portion of the available energy. They use a heating element to bring the water to a boil and then cool it back down again over several hours.

The energy efficiency of water distillers is poor, and using one will cause your monthly energy costs to rise by an amount proportional to the amount of water distilled each day.

However, to put the cost of electricity into proper perspective, think about the money you will save by not purchasing bottled distilled water.

Suppose the electricity expenditures in your home are typical. So, it will cost you approximately thirty cents to distill one gallon of water into distilled water.

The process of distilling water requires a significant amount of time. If you are in a hurry to get filtered water, you may find the pace of distillers to be frustrating because they purify the water one drop at a time.

However, most processes that generate water of such a high purity move at a somewhat sluggish pace, such as reverse osmosis. It is impossible to achieve such a complete and thorough water filtration instantly.

Is Reverse Osmosis Water the Same as Distilled Water?

Reverse osmosis water and distilled water are not the same things. The procedure of filtration, known as reverse osmosis, involves forcing your water to travel through several thin membranes.

Providing pure drinking water for one’s household is the primary motivation for installing reverse osmosis systems in private residences.

Distillation involves heating water to a high temperature, collecting the steam produced, and then letting the steam cool and turn back into the water.

The contaminants will be removed from the water after it has been distilled. Note that the procedure many towns offer for cleaning your water differs from distillation.

Distillation is one option. The bacteria and germs in the water will be killed by boiling it. Still, boiling will not remove any chemicals or other pollutants, such as minerals.

What Is the Best Water Distiller Brand?

VEVOR makes some of the best water distillers on the market. Because every component used in the VEVOR distiller is of food-grade quality and is designed to prevent leaching, the distilled water can retain as much of its original purity as possible during and after the process.

Because it’s stainless steel, it has the longest lifespan on the market. It is also equipped with a one-of-a-kind grip on its top, making it considerably simpler to transport.


Feedback: Was This Article Helpful?
Thank You For Your Feedback!
Thank You For Your Feedback!
What Did You Like?
What Went Wrong?
Headshot of Peter Gray

About the Author

Peter Gray

Peter has been a homeowner for 35+ years and has always done his own repair and improvement tasks. As a retired plumber, Peter now spends his time teaching others how they can fix leaks, replace faucets, and make home improvements on a budget.