An apparatus and method utilizing activated carbon to remove impurities from liquids comprises an adsorption column containing a plurality of stacked carbon containers. Each of the containers holds an activated carbon bed, has an opening above the level of the bed to permit introduction of oxygen, steam or other gas, and has means for permitting passage of liquid from the container. Liquid to be purified enters the top of the column, flows through the carbon beds in the containers and out of the column. A control module monitors the effectiveness of the column and generates signals to control the reactivation of the carbon by heating the carbon containers and passing steam into the individual containers.