Posted on by Ken Morgan

The Difference Between Deionized Water and Distilled Water (2022)

It is not uncommon to think that distilled and deionized water mean the same thing and it’s not uncommon to mix up what distilled and deionized water are. We want to clear that up because getting the two messed up can lead to some pretty horrific damages in the wrong context.

That is why we put together this guide detailing the differences between deionized water and distilled water:

Comparing Distilled vs Deionized Water

Distilled Water: This water is boiled into a vapor and then that vapor is condensed back into a liquid in another container. This purifies the water because certain impurities do not boil and remain in the original container.

Deionized Water: With deionized water, which is often shortened to DI water, almost all of the mineral ions are removed. This is done through a chemical process that uses ion-exchange resins.

If you have the wrong water treatment system installed, you could end up undermining your production across your entire facility. That means losing time and money. That’s why finding and developing the right water treatment solution for your business, especially for a manufacturing operation, is key to your success.

Two common types of treated water are distilled and deionized water. Here are some similarities and differences that are key to understanding them:

  • Both distilled and deionized water are fit to drink.
  • Deionized water is purer than distilled water.
  • Distilled water conducts electricity, while deionized water does not.

Obviously, a lot is on the line, and understanding what is best for your specific situation can be difficult. Because of this, you should trust water treatment experts.

Industries That Use Deionized Water

Deionized water is used in more applications than you would expect. Many industries utilize deionized water. It is frequently used in manufacturing and chemical processing, among many others. A few examples include:

  • Automotive
  • Beverages
  • Biochemistry Field
  • Certain Fire Extinguishers
  • Cosmetics
  • Electrical Discharge Machining
  • Liquid Detergents
  • Pharmaceuticals
  • Any industry that needs to clean electronic devices or use immersion cooling.

These are just a few of the places that you will find DI water being used. Usage of deionized water is vital for a widespread amount of businesses across the world.

What Is Deionized Water Used For?

Due to being the highest purity water, there are certain situations where deionized water is commonly used. Here are some examples of some of the many applications where deionized water is needed or favored:

  • Laboratories: Since deionized water is pure, it won’t negatively affect test results.
  • Manufacturing: Due to all of the ions being removed, DI water has very low conductivity. This means that it’s a great option for industrial situations that involve machinery. Deionized water is also used in manufacturing to help lower temperatures.
  • Automotives: Deionized water is used as a coolant system to increase the lifespan of a motor. The reason DI water is used here is because of its resistance to electricity.
  • Medicine: There has to be a standard in medicine. That’s why these chemists have to use something called “water for injection”. The process of getting this water starts with creating deionized water.

Deionized water has unique properties which lead to it being used in unique situations. That’s why you see DI water appear in a wide range of situations and industries.

Where You Can Buy Deionized Water

Where you purchase deionized water depends on who you are. For personal use, you will be able to find individual containers of deionized water through a retail supplier.

On the other hand, if you’re a representative of a manufacturing facility, laboratory, or any other business, it will be best to find a water treatment company that you can use as your trusted supplier of deionized water.

By having a water treatment company that you trust you are able to save time and money with consistent shipments, which will keep your operation running smoothly. The deionizing process most likely will be custom-designed to best fit your facility. Trusting one company to service your equipment is key to avoiding potential pitfalls.

We suggest looking for a water treatment company that is reputable and provides emergency services. That means one that has the experience you need and allows you to have a level of trust that you feel comfortable with. To do this, try to look for case studies from each water treatment company that you consider. Make an educated decision on your water treatment provider to help your business grow.