While filters can help reduce the amount of contaminants in your drinking water, the only way to ensure pure H2O is through a water distiller. Much like the earth’s natural water cycle, these appliances heat up water until it turns into steam, which is then condensed back into pure H2O. This process effectively removes all impurities from the water, including not only lethal viruses and bacteria but also low levels of chemicals and heavy metals that can impact long-term health.
Water distillers come in various designs, sizes, and price points, so the best one will vary from household to household. For example, some distillers heat up faster than others, while others may feature more or less water capacity. High-end water distillers often offer additional features, such as programmable time settings and carafes made of high-quality glass rather than plastic.
Below, we’ve rounded up some of the best water distillers on the market, vetted according to standards such as quality, ease of use, and price. Whether you’re looking for the best water distillation systemfor personal hydration or for the whole household, one of these may be best suited to fit your needs.
- BEST OVERALL: Megahome Countertop Water Distiller
- BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: Mophorn Pure Water Distiller
- BEST GLASS CARAFE: CO-Z 1 Gallon Water Distiller
- BEST PREMIUM: Waterwise 4000 Countertop Distiller
- BEST NONELECTRIC: Kitchen Crop Little Creek Water Distiller
- BEST PLASTIC CARAFE: H2o Labs 1 Gallon Water Distiller
- BEST FOR ALCOHOL: Vevor Stainless Steel Water Distiller
- BEST SMART DISTILLER: WaterLovers Advanced Design Water Distiller
- ALSO CONSIDER: H2o Labs Stainless Steel Water Distiller
What to Consider When Choosing the Best Water Distiller
Most water distillers share a similar design, consisting of a carafe or pitcher that catches the water and a heating element that steams and dispenses it. But many factors of this design can vary, from size and capacity to durability and efficiency.
Type
Unlike some of the top water filters, which can range in type from pitcher to plumb-in models, the best water distillers share a more similar design. Most models we reviewed consist of two main parts: the boiling chamber, which heats and cools the water, and the carafe or pitcher, which collects it for drinking. Some distillers also incorporate internal filters to further clean the water of any contaminants before or after the distillation process.
Alternatively, some distillers may feature a more rudimentary design, consisting of a copper coil and large pot that can be filled with water and heated over the stove. These kits are sometimes marketed for emergency situations or for alcohol distillation, but they can also be used to purify water at home.
Capacity and Speed
For everyday household users, among the most important features of a water distiller are capacity and speed. While water distillers may operate more slowly than regular water filters, which do not have to heat and cool the water, it’s beneficial for them to work quickly and efficiently. The right water distiller should also be able to hold enough water to hydrate the entire household, whether it consists of just one person or a whole family.
At the very least, a good water distiller is often able to purify a single person’s daily recommended hydration requirements—around 2 to 3 liters—in just a few hours. Some are faster than others, making them a more convenient option for users who drink tap water regularly. There also are water distillers that are able to hold and purify large quantities, making them more suitable for multimember households.
Materials
When it comes to picking the right water distiller, material construction is particularly important. Water distillers are designed to produce pure, contaminant-free H2O, and the material construction and quality of the appliance can ultimately impact that very purity. For example, it’s important that the distiller’s boiler chamber and associated parts be made of stainless steel since that will help prevent them from oxidizing or corroding over time.
It’s also worth considering the material of the carafe that collects and stores the water. Some plastics contain BPAs and other chemicals that can leach into the water after it’s clean, so finding a distiller that is free of those toxins is important. In general, glass carafes are more sanitary than plastic ones, not only because they’re free of toxic chemicals but also because they are easier to clean and keep clean.
Beyond cleanliness, the material construction of a distiller will also affect its durability. Glass may be cleaner than plastic, but the latter tends to be more durable, which may be an important consideration in accident-prone households.
Filtration
Water distillers work through a process of distillation, during which the water is boiled to release steam, and the steam is cooled and condensed into pure H2O. Because the vast majority of chemicals and contaminants are left behind when the water evaporates, this ensures purer water than regular filtration, which invariably allows some impurities to seep through.
Still, many water distillers incorporate filters for added benefit. Some contaminants, such as volatile organic compounds (VOCs), can exist in a gaseous state, allowing them to survive the distillation process. To capture those toxins, many distillers come with an activated-carbon post filter through which the purified water runs before being dispensed into the carafe.
Additionally, while distillation may effectively remove toxins from tap water, the process can also strip it of certain minerals that actually contribute to our health. To that end, some distillers also incorporate remineralization filters, which reintroduce certain healthy minerals back into the water after it’s been purified.
Energy Consumption
Depending on their size, water distillers can vary in terms of energy consumption. Water distillers designed for use in the U.S. will run off of a standard 110 or 120 volts, the same as most household appliances. In terms of energy consumption, a medium-size water distiller consumes around the same amount as a small drip coffee maker—somewhere between 500 and 800 watts.
To improve their energy efficiency, many water distillers include automatic shut-off features that keep them from sucking up energy when not actively distilling water.
Certification
While there is no universal certification standard for water distillers, the most reputable models will often carry approval from Underwriters Laboratories (UL), a nonprofit organization that vets the safety and quality of small appliances and products in the United States. A UL certification ensures that a water distiller has been tested and conforms to certain industry-wide standards of safety and quality.
Our Top Picks
Taking the above features into consideration, we selected some of the best water distillers on the market for specific situations and needs. Our top picks include models with a large capacity, a compact design, and high value for money for those on a budget.
Photo: amazon.com
The best distillers are efficient and effective, and few meet that criteria like the Megahome Countertop Water Distiller. It’s one of the most popular and trusted models out there, thanks to its high-quality design and quick, reliable operation. All of the parts in the distiller are stainless steel, from the cooling coil to the chamber itself, and the carafe is made of food-grade glass, making it easy to clean and to use. This also means there are no plastic parts involved, ensuring the water produced by the distiller remains free of chemicals.
The Megahome distiller is capable of distilling 1 gallon of water in under 6 hours—enough to suit households large and small. And if its popularity isn’t enough, this model also comes with a certification from UL, ensuring it meets the highest safety and quality standards.
Product Specs
- Capacity: 4 liters
- Speed: 5.5 hours per gallon
- Carafe: Glass
Pros
- High-quality components
- Automatic shut-off switch
- Safety and quality certified
Cons
- Not the fastest distiller
- Pricier than other options
Get the Megahome water distiller on Amazon or Megahome.
Photo: amazon.com
Water distillers may require a greater investment than regular filters, but that doesn’t mean they have to break the bank. Take this affordable distiller from Mophorn, which produces clean, contaminant-free H2O at a fraction of the price of other models out there. It’s nearly as effective, too, capable of removing dissolved solids, metals, and even VOCs.
The 750-watt version can process 0.34 gallons of water per hour, or up to 6 gallons per day, making it nearly as fast as more expensive distillers. Unfortunately, the carafe is plastic, so we don’t recommend storing water in it for long periods of time. Still, the materials are FDA certified and BPA-free.
Product Specs
- Capacity: 1.1 gallons
- Speed: 3 hours per gallon
- Carafe: BPA-free plastic
Pros
- Compact and lightweight design
- Easy to operate with 1 button
- Top handle makes it easy to carry
Cons
- Not the most thorough distillation process
- Plastic parts not as high quality as those on more expensive models
Get the Mophorn water distiller on Amazon.
Photo: amazon.com
This 1-gallon water distiller from CO-Z is fast, easy to use, and a surprising value thanks to its quality and price. The appliance is capable of purifying 0.3 gallons of water per hour, removing all kinds of harmful bacteria and toxins through a normal distillation process. On top of that, this model also includes an activated carbon filter that sifts the water after it’s distilled, eliminating any leftover VOCs.
One of the best parts of this distiller is the carafe, which features a unique pot shape that holds up to a gallon of water. The carafe also doubles as a drinking cup, with an ergonomic handle that makes it easy to hold and drink from as soon as it’s dispensed from the distiller.
Product Specs
- Capacity: 1.1 gallons
- Speed: 0.3 gallons per hour
- Carafe: Glass
Pros
- Nonslip base ensures stability on slick surfaces
- Included cleaning solution helps remove limescale buildup
- Great value for price
Cons
- Glass pitcher isn’t the most durable
- No programmable settings
Get the CO-Z water distiller on Amazon or CO-Z.
Photo: amazon.com
Waterwise’s home distiller features a similar design to many other models on this list, but it one-ups most of them with its superlative quality, efficiency, and aesthetics. Perfect for many design-conscious homes, the all-white distillation unit can blend in with most kitchen interiors, while the compact size won’t take up too much counter space. We also love the borosilicate glass carafe, which boasts a comfortable contoured handle that is easy to grip and hold.
Waterwise’s distiller holds 1 gallon of water and can purify it in around 4 hours, which also places it among the fastest models we reviewed. Once purified, the water can be used for drinking or even for humidifiers or other household appliances. This model is a bit pricier than others, but its durable quality and sleek looks may justify the cost for some users.
Product Specs
- Capacity: 1 gallon
- Speed: 4 hours per gallon
- Carafe: Glass
Pros
- 800-watt motor uses standard outlet
- 316-grade stainless steel boiler is more durable than similar models
- Can produce up to 6 gallons a day
Cons
- More expensive than other options
- Plastic cover on the carafe may break easily
Get the Waterwise water distiller on Amazon or Waterwise.
Photo: amazon.com
Electric water distillers may offer convenience, but they’re also among the most expensive methods available for purifying H2O. The good news is that a sophisticated appliance isn’t necessary to obtain crystal clear water. With the Little Creek water distiller from Kitchen Crop, users can purify water on any stovetop or even open flame—no electricity required—making it a great option for emergency or camping situations.
The kit consists of four parts, including three stackable pots for distilling the water and a hose for dispensing it. The pots are made of durable stainless steel, and two of them are typical kitchen pots that can be used together as a double boiler or even separately as regular cooking pots. When used as a distiller, the kit can produce a gallon of water in around 4 hours—just as fast as any electric model out there.
Product Specs
- Capacity: 4.5 quarts
- Speed: 4 hours per gallon
- Carafe: Stainless steel
Pros
- Does not need electricity
- Versatile design can be used as double boiler
- Ideal for emergency or disaster situations
Cons
- Requires access to heat source
- Not as convenient as an automatic model
Get the Kitchen Crop water distiller on Amazon.
Photo: amazon.com
While we generally recommend choosing glass when it comes to carafe construction for a distiller, plastic can have its benefits, too. Plastic is more durable than glass, as it is capable of withstanding accidental drops and accidents without damage. Many plastic carafes also boast designs that make it easier to pour a glass of water than glass ones—including the carafe in this H2o Labs distiller.
Able to process 1 gallon of water in roughly 5 hours, this popular model features a large plastic jug that is easy to carry and pour from. It also includes a water holding tank of similar construction that can be removed and filled at the sink, making refills a breeze. Overall, this is a great option for anyone looking for a utilitarian, affordable way to purify their tap water.
Product Specs
- Capacity: 1 gallon
- Speed: 5 hours per gallon
- Carafe: Plastic
Pros
- Distiller weighs under 8 pounds
- Removable holding container
- Stick-resistant boiling tray reduces sediment buildup
Cons
- Plastic is not as sanitary as glass
- Boxy design may not be as aesthetically pleasing as other models
Get the H2o Labs 1 gallon water distiller on Amazon.
Photo: amazon.com
Distillers aren’t just for purifying drinking water. Specifically, the process of distillation can also be used to produce alcohol, whereby a fermented liquid is boiled over high heat to release alcoholic vapor, which is then condensed back into liquid. To make this process go smoothly, it’s best to have a kit like this one from Vevor.
The Vevor alcohol still contains everything needed to distill water, liquor, or even essential oils at home. A large stainless steel pot serves as the boiling chamber, while a smaller one attached to a cooling copper coil serves as a carafe. The pot also includes a built-in thermometer that allows for easy temperature monitoring throughout the process.
Product Specs
- Capacity: 3 gallons
- Speed: N/A
- Carafe: Stainless steel
Pros
- Made of food-grade materials
- Also comes in larger sizes
- Very affordably priced
Cons
- Not as easy to use as an electric water distiller
- Requires an open flame as a heat source
Get the Vevor water distiller on Amazon.
Photo: amazon.com
One byproduct of the distillation process is the heavy metals and other impurities that are left behind after boiling water. If left unchecked, these byproducts can build up in the chamber, leading to corrosion and oxidation. That’s why we like this distiller from WaterLovers, which automatically stops boiling when the water level is low, preventing excess scale buildup and helping to prolong the life of the unit.
In addition to this feature, the WaterLovers distiller can also automatically detect the temperature of the surrounding room and adjust its power usage accordingly. For those concerned about their energy consumption, this is a great choice.
Product Specs
- Capacity: 2.8 Liters
- Speed: 4 hours per gallon
- Carafe: Glass
Pros
- Removable holding tank is easy to refill
- Includes activated charcoal filters
- Smart feature protects distiller from overheating
Cons
- Smaller carafe capacity than some other units
- Some users report distiller failed prematurely
Get the Vevor water distiller on Amazon.
Photo: amazon.com
With a 565-watt heating element, the H2o Labs Stainless steel Water Distiller quickly purifies water without sucking up a lot of energy. As the manufacturer notes, faster boiling time does not necessarily equal cleaner water. If water boils too fast, the distiller may fail to eliminate VOCs and other harmful chemicals. The distiller from H2o Labs avoids this issue with steady cooling and heating, while at the same time offering the added benefit of energy efficiency for users worried about their power bill.
In addition to its glass carafe and stainless steel chamber, this model also features a porcelain nozzle that ensures the purified water remains uncontaminated by steel or plastic parts. It also comes with a nontoxic cleaning solution designed to break up the hard water scale that may accumulate in the boiling chamber.
Product Specs
- Capacity: 1 gallon
- Speed: 5 to 6 hours per gallon
- Carafe: Glass
Pros
- Durable and dependable design
- Porcelain nozzle ensures water purity
- Includes a year’s supply of activated-carbon filters
Cons
- Can only distill 4 gallons of water per day
- Auto stop means there is no “off” switch
Get the H2o Labs stainless steel water distiller on Amazon or Water Distillers Direct.
Our Verdict
For an efficient, easy-to-use water distiller for casual home use, our favorite choice is the Megahome water distiller. Alternatively, shoppers looking for a reliable way to purify their tap water without spending a ton of money may want to consider the affordable Mophorn water distiller.
How We Chose the Best Water Distillers
To find the best water distillers out there, we spent hours researching the most trusted brands and models on the market according to both user and expert reviews. We initially looked at more than a dozen different options, vetting them based on features like material quality, durability, efficiency, and ease of use. We took into special consideration each model’s capacity and distillation speed, as these are two of the most important features for casual home users.
Because distillation is a useful way of purifying water in emergency and outdoor situations, we also differentiated between and included both electric and nonelectric models.
The Advantages of Owning a Water Distiller
Although most tap water in America is deemed safe to drink, safe doesn’t mean it’s healthy. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency sets legal limits on more than 90 contaminants found in tap water, from viruses and bacteria to chemicals like fluoride and lead. But some trace amounts of these impurities can still make their way into our drinking water and can have negative effects on our long-term health.
A water distiller is one of the most effective ways that shoppers can ensure they’re drinking the purest water possible. Unlike a faucet water filter or even reverse osmosis, a distiller separates the water from any harmful chemicals through evaporation and condensation, resulting in purer H2O. By stripping these impurities, a distiller can produce water that is not only healthier for the body but that also tastes and smells better.
Distilled water isn’t just better for the body, either—it’s also easier on the wallet. Though distillers require an up-front investment, they can save users from having to buy distilled bottled water, making them a more economical choice in the long run. Accounting for energy costs, many distillers can produce pure water at less than 25 cents per gallon.
- Drinking distilled water is healthier than plain tap.
- Water distillers produce purer H2O than filters or reverse osmosis.
- Distilling water is cheaper than buying it.
Tips for Cleaning a Water Distiller
To keep a distiller operating for a long time, it’s important to clean and maintain the appliance regularly in between uses. This is especially true for the distiller’s boiling chamber, which can become covered in heavy-metal scale and other impurities left behind during the distillation process. If left uncleaned, this scale can corrode the inside of the chamber, ruining the appliance.
Cleaning methods may vary from model to model, but most water distillers can be cleaned with a simple rinse and scrub. If there is excess limescale buildup in the chamber, the unit may need to be soaked for a few hours in a cleaning solution. Many of the distillers in this list come with their own cleaning solutions to help break down residues and buildup inside the chamber. It’s important to clean a water distiller regularly, preferably after every use.
When in doubt, consult the manufacturer’s instructions for tips on cleaning the distiller.
- For best results, water distillers should be cleaned often—ideally between uses.
- Pay special attention to the buildup of heavy-metal scale in the boiling chamber, which could lead to corrosion and rust.
- Some distillers may include special cleaning products to break down excess scale.
- Consult the manufacturer’s instructions for specific tips on cleaning.
FAQs
Still wondering how to choose a water distiller? Keep reading for some frequently asked questions about these appliances, from filters to water shelf life.
Q. How is distilled water made?
Distilled water is made through the process of distillation. Essentially, it’s the same process that rainwater goes through during the Earth’s natural water cycle. Specifically, water is heated until it turns into steam and then cooled until it condenses back into liquid.
Q. What can distilled water be used for?
Distilled water doesn’t only have to be used for drinking. Distilled water can also be used in household appliances like humidifiers, steam irons, or CPAP devices.
Q. How long can distilled water be stored?
If left sealed in a glass or a plastic container, distilled water can last for several years. When opened, it’s best to consume it or use it within a few months.
Q. What is the purpose of a post-carbon filter?
While the distillation process removes most impurities from water, some contaminants—such as harmful VOCs—can survive. A post-carbon filter is designed to catch any stray chemicals or VOCs that make it through distillation.
