Water Purification Systems for Emergency Management

Carbon Filtration and UV Water Disinfection Process

First Water holds several US patents for its truly unique technology.  All filtration systems have been engineered to produce safer, cleaner water from salt-free (fresh water) sources for many emergency applications.  The core to the technology involves multi-stage filtration including an in-line pre-filter on the intake hose for large particulates, a sediment filter to reduce turbidity, a carbon block for improving taste and smell, and a high strength UV bulb for disinfection.  The UV system features a flange and quartz sleeve around the bulb to force the water to circulate around the UV bulb twice, providing significantly greater “contact time” and greater ability to neutralize biological contamination.

All First Water systems feature a true “lamp-out” feature to ensure that the water coming through is safe to drink. The patented process shuts down the pump and stops all water flow if the voltage to the UV bulb is reduced for any reason. This may occur when there is an electrical problem or when the UV is reaching the end of its useful life.

In addition to the cleaning power of the technology, all systems are engineered for fast setup and tear-down, as well as minimal maintenance and easy operation by persons without technical skills.  All systems are delivered ready to run, with low cost consumable filters that occasionally need to be replaced.  The in-line sediment filter is washable and re-usable.  The sediment filter only needs to be replaced when the flow of water starts to significantly slow down.  This is dependant on the quality of the incoming water.  First Water recommends that users select clear water for their source water whenever possible.  Even though the water is likely contaminated, relatively clear water will require far less filter changes.  Because the carbon block captures and hold impurities, it should be changed after every event.  The UV bulb is rated for 2,000 hours of use and should be changed after that timeframe.

After an incident is over, simply decontaminate the surface of the units with a mild bleach solution or wipe, put the equipment away, and it will be immediately ready for the next event.  The only ongoing maintenance is for solar powered equipment.  These devices should be taken out in the sunlight every six months or so to keep the on-board battery charged.