How to Make a Solar Water Still

In some areas of the country water may be difficult to come by. This is especially true for individuals who are trying to live off grid or life a sustainable living lifestyle. In areas such as dry desert areas and areas that do not receive much rain, having the ability to create at least some form of water is a huge benefit. One of the ways to create some form of drinking water or to purify the water you have for you or your family in a dire situation is to create a solar water still. The following is a quick how-to guide on making a solar water still that can produce purified water for you and your family.

The Tools and Materials

This solar water still is designed to purify water for you and your family in a dire situation. It is also designed to create some water from solar heating. The following are the tools you will need in order to create a solar water still. ' A plywood box with 9' angled end pieces and an open top. ' A drill ' Screws ' Measuring tape ' Black high-temperature paint ' Reflective foil ' Contact cement ' Weather sealant ' PVC pipe ' Water jug ' Silicone caulk ' Plexiglas

Planning and Creation

There are several plans on the Internet and for purchase in various stores for creating this particular type of solar still. You'll want to create a solar still that works best for you and your family. The basic concept to keep in mind is that the plywood box being used should have a 9' angle, be weather sealed and have proper drainage. Starting from the point of the box that has already been built, you will want to line the box with black high-temperature paint. This black high-temperature paint is to help reflect the heat of the sun. You'll also want to add reflective foil by using contact cement. This reflective foil should be on the back and sides of the plywood box. After the high-temperature paint and reflective foil has been added you will want to use a silicone caulk to ensure that all sides and possible openings are leak proof. After you have ensured that all sides are sealed properly and that the reflective paint and foil is in place, you will want to drill a hole on either the front of the side of the plywood box. After you have drilled a hole on the side of the plywood box you will want to place the PVC pipe within the hole and seal the hole properly with silicone sealant. The PVC pipe, with attached spout, will need to be sealed and placed over the water jug. Larger water jugs are best for this particular project. The last piece of equipment to create your solar water still is the Plexiglas. Plexiglas will go on top of the plywood box. You will want to make sure that the Plexiglas is placed on with hinges on one side and that weather sealant is used around the area of the Plexiglas. This is to ensure there is no leaking or heat escaping. After you have placed all of these items and secure them, you will want to fill the container with water and do a run through with the project. Allow the sun to focus directly onto the Plexiglas and create heat in the box. This will purify the water and the water can then be drained out of the PVC pipe into the waiting jug.