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.
- Porcelain-lined nozzle
- High-quality charcoal filters
- UL-approved
- Optimized heating element
- BPA-free
- Carbon filter pods
- Processes 1 gallon in 4 hours
- Auto-off feature
- Quiet operation
- Scale-resistant boiling tray
- Process in four hours
- Added safety features
- Carrying handle
- Thermostatically-controlled
- 1 gallon per 4 hours
- 9.6-gallon capacity
- Open-system cooling
- Dual temperature display
- 750-watt heating element
- Features an on/off switch
- Food-grade materials
- No additional filter
- Auto-off feature
- Quick but thorough
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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: