In many low-income countries like India, poor sanitation systems are a significant cause of mortality because they accelerate the transmission of waterborne diseases. The development of sanitation systems in these countries is a pressing issue in both the public and private sectors. This paper presents a comprehensive study on the development and application of a reflector assisted UV-LED-based drinking water disinfection system. The system harnesses the power of UV-LEDs integrated with an optimized reflector design, ensuring efficient and economical disinfection of drinking water. UV-based disinfection inevitably consumes less electricity so it is economical to operate. An aluminum-based reflector that enhances the effectiveness of a continuous-flow UV-LED water disinfection system was developed instead of UV lamps. A solar panel with a battery is also attached to the system to ensure an independent system that does not require direct power from the grid and can also work in rural areas where there is no continuous supply of electricity. The system’s versatility allows deployment in diverse settings, including rural communities, disaster relief efforts and mobile applications. By promoting sustainable practices and environmental consciousness, this innovative solution not only addresses the immediate need for clean water but also aligns with global initiatives for eco-friendly technologies. This paper highlights the development and testing of solar powered UV-LED-based drinking water disinfection system with low running cost.