Michigan Department of Public Health
Division of Water Supply
Distillation is one of the oldest methods of water treatment and is still in use today, though not commonly as a home treatment method. It can effectively remove many contaminants from drinking water, including bacteria, inorganic and many organic compounds. The first step toward solving a suspected water quality problem is having your water analyzed by your local health department or reputable laboratory. A water analysis will not only verify whether a water quality problem exists, but is
also essential to determine the most appropriate solution to the problem. State or local health officials can interpret water analysis results. Some laboratories may also provide this service.