When setting up a tabletop fountain, you have two common choices for "purified" water: grab a jug of Distilled Water from the store, or simply Boil Tap Water at home.
One is free; the other costs money.
One takes time; the other takes a trip to the shop.
But which one is actually better for the longevity of your fountain?
In this objective breakdown, we compare them side-by-side on mineral content, pump safety, and convenience.
Contender 1: Boiled Water
The "DIY" Option.
What is it?
Tap water that has been heated to 212°F (100°C) and then cooled down.
The Pros:
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Free: Costs nothing but a little electricity.
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Sterile: Boiling kills bacteria and parasites (good for drinking).
The Cons:
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Mineral Heavy: Boiling does not remove calcium, lime, or magnesium. As water evaporates during boiling, the remaining liquid actually has a higher concentration of minerals per ounce than before.
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Scale Buildup: It leaves the same "white ring of death" (limescale) on your fountain as regular tap water.
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Pump Damage: The minerals will still crystalize inside your pump’s impeller, causing noise and failure.
Verdict: Unsafe for Fountains. It solves the bacteria problem but worsens the mineral problem.
Contender 2: Distilled Water
The "Laboratory" Option.
What is it?
Water that has been boiled into steam, captured, and cooled back into liquid in a separate container. The impurities are left behind in the original container.
The Pros:
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Zero Minerals: It contains 99.9% pure H2O. No calcium, no magnesium.
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Zero Scale: It will never leave white crusty rings on your fountain, keeping it looking brand new.
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Pump Protection: Without grit to grind against the gears, your pump runs silently and lasts for years.
The Cons:
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Cost: You have to buy it (usually $1-$2 per gallon).
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Storage: You need to store plastic jugs.
Verdict: The Gold Standard. It is the only water type that prevents mechanical damage.
The Comparison Chart
| Feature | Boiled Water | Distilled Water |
| Cost | Free | Low ($1/gallon) |
| Bacteria | Killed | Removed |
| Minerals (Calcium) | Concentrated (High) | Removed (Zero) |
| Limescale Risk | High | None |
| Pump Safety | Poor | Excellent |
Conclusion: Is Boiled Water Better?
No. Objectively, boiled water is worse for mechanical devices than distilled water.
While boiled water is safer for humans (because we digest minerals), it is deadly for pumps (which get clogged by minerals).
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If you want to save $1 today, use boiled water (and pay $20 for a new pump later).
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If you want your fountain to last, Distilled Water is the undisputed winner.
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Still skeptical about why boiling fails? Read the science in our article: Does Boiling Water Work for Fountains?