3
Disinfection – To Be Used During a Boil Water Alert or When Mold/Mildew/Algae is Observed
The Santevia Gravity System is designed to be used only with microbiologically safe water. When in
doubt, consult the proper water authorities regarding the safety status of your drinking water.
Disinfecting the Santevia System:
1.
Cleaning solution: Mix 30 mL (2 tbsp) of unscented chlorine bleach in 1 L (4 cups) of clean water.
Do not drink cleaning solution.
2.
Alternate method for cleaning solution: Mix 250 mL (1 cup) of white vinegar in 750 mL (3 cups)
of clean water. Do not drink cleaning solution.
3.
CAUTION: When making cleaning solution, do not mix methods. Toxic fumes can form when
mixing vinegar and bleach.
4.
Disassemble system.
5.
For Boil Water Alert, replace 5-Stage Filter and Mineral Stones.
6.
For mold/mildew/algae contamination, replace 5-Stage Filter. Depending on the severity of
contamination, replace the Mineral Stones also.
7.
Do not use cleaning solution for 5-Stage Filter, or Mineral Stones.
8.
Soak all parts, pre-filter, washers and tap in cleaning solution for at least 30 minutes. Scrape off
any algae/mold using a clean soft sponge or cloth. Do not use a kitchen cloth or used sponge as
they usually contain bacteria from food particles.
9.
Use a cotton swab dipped in cleaning solution to get to the corners and edges.
10.
Rinse all parts soaked in cleaning solution with clean water.
11.
Discard any mineral stones or balls with visible mold/algae. Boil stones and balls for at least 1
minute then allow to cool and dry.
12.
Replace washers that are discolored.
13.
Clean and recondition the Ceramic Pre-Filter.
14.
Recondition the new 5-Stage Filter.
15.
Reassemble the system.
Water Disinfection (source: US CDC -
https://www.cdc.gov/healthywater/drinking/travel/emergency_disinfection.html)
1.
Boil water for 1 minute and store in clean covered containers; or
2.
If you cannot boil water, add 2 drops of unscented household bleach per liter of water, stirring
well, and let stand for 30 minutes. Store in clean covered containers.
3.
If possible, use bottled water.
