Water harvesting through condensation
In today's environment, every drop of clean water matters. When you need to access clean water without resources like whole-house or under-the-counter water filters, condensation water harvesting can be an awesome way to ensure you have water for life's everyday needs.
Each method is designed to be simple and use materials you might find or improvise in a wilderness setting.
1. Water Condensation Method (Solar Still)
Image Description: A plastic sheet covers a shallow hole in the ground with a container at the center, collecting water droplets that condense on the underside of the sheet.
Image Description: A plastic sheet covers a shallow hole in the ground with a container at the center, collecting water droplets that condense on the underside of the sheet.
How to Do It:
• Dig a shallow hole (about 1-2 feet deep and wide) in the ground where the soil is moist.
• Place a container or cup in the center of the hole.
• Cover the hole with a plastic sheet or tarp, securing the edges with rocks or soil to seal it.
• Place a small stone in the center of the sheet, above the container, to create a slight dip.
• Leave it in the sun; heat will cause moisture from the soil to evaporate and condense on the plastic, dripping into the container.
• Check after a few hours or overnight for collected water.
2. Plastic Sheet over Hole
Image Description: A plastic sheet is draped over a hole with a cup inside, showing water droplets forming on the sheet.
How to Do It:
• Dig a hole (1-2 feet deep) in a sunny area with damp soil.
• Place a cup or container at the bottom of the hole.
• Cover the hole with a plastic sheet, anchoring the edges with rocks or heavy objects.
• Weigh down the center of the sheet with a small stone to create a low point above the cup.
• Allow the sun to heat the soil; moisture will rise, condense on the sheet, and drip into the cup.
• Collect water after several hours or overnight.
3. Transpiration Bag
Image Description: A plastic bag is placed over a leafy plant, capturing water droplets from transpiration.
How to Do It:
• Find a non-poisonous leafy plant or tree branch.
• Carefully place a clear plastic bag over the leaves, sealing it tightly around the stem with a string or twist tie.
• Ensure the bag is positioned so water droplets can collect at the bottom.
• Leave it in the sun; the plant will release moisture through transpiration, which will condense inside the bag.
• After a few hours, carefully remove the bag and pour the collected water into a container.
These methods rely on natural heat and condensation to extract water from the environment. The amount of water collected depends on sunlight, soil moisture, and plant activity.
If available as an option; Always boil or purify the water before drinking to ensure safety.
