I came across the realization while caring for my aquarium that the same supplies in the tank filter would make a good drinking water filter (Obviously). You could ramp it up or down to suit your needs, i.e., using buckets and a stock tank. You might even be able to raise it up off ground water, and using tubing, create a small amount of running water.
Depending on how many layers you can fit, you can start with either large pebbles or regular aquarium or other clean gravel (as with adding to an aquarium, wash it first!), then some sand, several layers if possible (Ranging from a coarse layer to a fine layer), and then charcoal. My aquarium filters also has a layer of foam at the bottom, which add an extra layer of filtration, and prevents any loose filter media that may end up in our water. Larger 10"x18" sheets of this polyfiber foam are available, easier than bunching up tiny pads.
You can buy many of these materials in bulk or cheaper elsewhere (i.e., sand from a garden or construction supply place will likely be cheaper than aquarium sand), or perhaps find substitutes for them.
Always boil the water afterwards, since the media will likely leave behind smaller bacteria or contaminants.
I plan to use this set up in the field. Why pay the cost of a factory assembling your filter when its really just gravity fed with multiple size media to provide the organic filtration and then you got it right,… charcoal. Im not paying for a 5o dollar unit when the universe tells me its the same damn thing! Light the fire, assemble the unit with material on site and I bet you carry a water filter that weighs less than an ounce. For just about free I might add.
Good post!
Whatever tomorrow brings,… I will be there! 😉
Exactly. Way back in elementary school we did a project making a water filter out of a pop bottle and sand and rocks found on the playground. Its just the grown-up concept.