Will desktop hot water heaters heat the water to the point that most impurities in the system are destroyed?

I work in downtown DC. Our office has a small kitchen and sink, but I am wary of drinking DC tap water. If I get a 16-ounce hot water heater, will the impurities generally be boiled away?

Thanks.

If you are actually boiling the water as opposed to just heating it, at least you know that you will be killing most microorganisms. Also any chlorine added to the water will be boiled out of the water. But as for impurities for example traces of lead, these won't be removed by boiling.

{ 3 comments… read them below or add one }

senorrobertoe June 24, 2009 at 9:11 am

no because it doesnt boil the water
References :

lifesonalex June 24, 2009 at 9:30 am

Unless you like distilling your water. Impurities will not be totally destroyed. If you're concerned about the "impurities" in your water ask your local water company for a water test. Most will provide this service for free.
References :

Marion June 24, 2009 at 9:54 am

If you are actually boiling the water as opposed to just heating it, at least you know that you will be killing most microorganisms. Also any chlorine added to the water will be boiled out of the water. But as for impurities for example traces of lead, these won't be removed by boiling.
References :

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