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Last Updated on September 5, 2024 by Paul Clayton
Table of Contents
10 Best RV Water Filters Buying Guide
The RV water filters offer a practical solution to maintain water quality, thus enhancing the overall RV camping experience. A reliable RV water filter ensures your journey is enjoyable and worry-free.
- RV water filters ensure clean water for RV owners.
- Filters remove harmful substances like bacteria and chlorine.
- Various types of filters target specific contaminants.
- Consider lifespan, installation ease, and contaminant removal.
- Maintenance is crucial for optimal filter performance.
This article will discuss the factors you must consider to find the best water filter.
After that, we’ll also show you our top 10 choices of water filters for this year; indeed, one is the best for you.
What to Look For?
Every person has different needs. This is true for almost any RV product, including water filters. When choosing which water filter to buy, you must evaluate your needs and decide based on that.
Here are the factors we believe are the most important when looking for a water filter for your RV.
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Type
There are different water filters for RV use, each ideal for different needs and, consequently, different kinds of RVers.
One of the options you can choose from is an inline filter. If essential sediment filtration and the ability to remove bad taste and smell from the water is all you need from a water filter, this is the perfect choice for you.
Another type of water filter you can get for your RV is the compact canister. As the name suggests, it is the more compact version of the water filters generally used in houses. Because of this trait, the compact canister filter type is big enough to fit inside your RV.
It can also be customized to suit particular needs. Other options include reverse osmosis, which is great for purifying water, and sediment and carbon filters.
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Amount of water you’re going to be filtering
You must also consider exactly how much water you think you will filter. Do you want to filter all the water in a storage tank or only from select sources?
By knowing your future filter usage, you will also know which filter will most suit your needs.
If your water source is dirty and filled with sediments, it is highly advised that you invest in a water filter capable of filtering all the water in your motorhome. You should also probably try to get one that can filter sediments.
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The difficulty of the installation process
The installation process of the filter you choose must be easy to accomplish. This is important since you will replace your filter every 3 to 12 months.
You want to make sure that when the time comes to change the filter, you can easily handle it on your own.
What Are They and How Do They Work?
What is a water filter?
The primary purpose of a water filter is to remove impurities from water. This is accomplished by removing as many unwanted substances as possible, passing the water through a barrier with fine holes, or using a chemical or biological process.
In short, you need a water filter for your RV to cleanse your water to a certain extent, giving you a reliable source of clean, and sometimes even drinkable, water.
Note that not only water filters but also cleaners can fulfill this particular function. Anything that can get rid of bacteria, sediment, and particles can already help, regardless of the amount.
The best models of water purifiers are also capable of producing clean water that does not taste like chlorine.
Most products you will encounter while shopping have a filtration system made from activated carbon charcoal. This filter is usually placed inside a pitcher or used as an essential component of tap-installed or faucet-mounted filters.
To achieve its purpose, methods such as sieving, adsorption, and ion exchange (among others) are used.
All the methods and processes are used to effectively remove contaminants from the water. Water filters will be much more effective in getting rid of particles from the water, especially the smaller ones, compared to the natural holes the water passes through.
How does a water filter work?
The number one reason to install a water filter in your motorhome is to provide a reliable and secure source of clean water, which can even be suitable for drinking.
Because of this, having one is invaluable during camping or hiking trips; knowing that you will always be able to get drinking water will put your mind at ease. In general, water filters clean water using two different techniques.
The first technique is physical filtration. As the name suggests, this involves passing the water through a barrier that serves as a filter, which will remove any impurities large enough.
This barrier acts as a very fine sieve and is usually a delicate textile membrane (cloth-like material) or a thin gauze.
The second technique is chemical filtration. This method passes water through a material specifically designed to adhere to the impurities commonly found in water, preventing these impurities from flowing along with the water.
If you plan on filtering all of the water in your motorhome’s holding tank, your best choice would be to get a water filter connected to a hose. If that’s the case, you want to get inline units capable of removing sediment and filtration.
Because of their ability to do both physical and chemical filtration, you can expect the water from this unit to taste and smell well.
It has to be noted, however, that such units are limited in their capability to remove sediments. What’s good about these units is that they are relatively small, which makes them ideally suited for the needs of people who do not use their motorhomes often.
If you need a filter with better flow that lasts longer, you need a standard-sized canister. These units are more significant but have the advantage of being customizable, meaning you can easily configure this type of unit to suit your needs.
Different types of RV water filters
Suppose you often go on trips in your motorhome and want to ensure that there is always a steady source of clean and odorless water. In that case, you must invest in a reliable water filter that fulfills your needs.
Water filters do a great job of minimizing the contaminants typically found in water and diminishing (or even outright removing) traces of chlorine along with foul taste and smell.
When looking for a new water filter for your RV, you must ensure that the unit you get is the best for you. You can do this by being completely aware of each type’s capabilities and limitations.
The different types that you’ll encounter while shopping for a water filter for your RV include the following:
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Sediment Filter
If your water filter uses sediment filters, it works by removing particles from the water. However, sediment can clog the water system of your recreational vehicle, resulting in a significant maintenance issue in the long run.
Sediment filters are advisable not only for the drinking water pump but also for other purposes, such as toilet valves, other faucets, and the water heater.
Because of this, having a sediment water filter in their recreational vehicle should be a bare minimum for all RVers.
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Carbon Filter
One significant benefit of a carbon filter is that it can improve the taste of the water and expel any foul odor. Sediment filters are incapable of doing this.
Nowadays, most of the carbon water filters you’ll see while you’re shopping are probably capable of reducing (or completely removing) the foul odors and bad taste from your water.
Carbon filter types can remove contaminants such as mercury, asbestos, lead, and volatile organic compounds. In general, carbon filters are divided into three types.
The first one, the cheapest and most common type of carbon filter, is the granular type of activated carbon filter.
This type of carbon filter works by simply passing the water through grains of charcoal or other activated carbon types. While beneficial, granular-type activated carbon filtration units are less effective than the two types of carbon filters.
This is because activated carbon has a minimal surface area. The second type of carbon filter is solid block carbon, which uses pulverized activated carbon shaped into blocks by high pressure.
The activated carbon in solid block carbon filters has a higher surface area than the granular type filter model.
Solid block carbon filters can prevent channels from forming, ensuring that the water always comes in contact with the activated carbon. The third type of carbon filter is the modified carbon block.
This is functionally just a better solid block carbon filter version, meaning they work similarly.
However, modified carbon block filters have a higher rate of water flow. They are also more durable and last longer than the other two types.
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Ceramic Filter
Another type of water filter you can buy for your motorhome is ceramic. This type of water filter has tiny holes capable of straining out the various contaminants in the water, such as bacteria, sediments, and even microscopic organisms.
Ceramic filters are unique because some models can also remove chemical contaminants. They feature a carbon part within the system, which can remove chemicals, although not to the same level as dedicated carbon filters.
If microscopic organisms and other biological pests are likely to invade your water source, a ceramic filter is the ideal choice.
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Reverse Osmosis
Reverse osmosis water filters clean water by using a semi-permeable membrane. This membrane will prevent anything more significant than water molecules from entering. This type of water filter will probably be the most effective, and the water it produces will be almost pure.
Reverse osmosis removes almost all contaminants from water, including arsenic, hexavalent chromium, perchlorate, fluoride, and different nitrates.
One major drawback of reverse osmosis is its inability to remove chlorine from water. The good news is that most reverse osmosis systems nowadays also have a carbon filter.
Benefits of having a Water Filter for your RV
Having a properly functioning water filtration system is highly advisable for RV owners, especially the ones who often go camping outdoors. Having a reliable water filter inside your RV will bring you various benefits and advantages, such as:
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Peace of mind
Having a water filter means always having a reliable source of tasty, odorless drinking water, which you will most definitely need when traveling or camping. Clean and drinkable water will be the least of your worries with a water filter.
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Convenience
With a water filter, drinking water is always accessible. This means you don’t have to worry about running out of water.
Having a water filter also means you don’t have to deal with the issues related to bringing your water, such as weight and storage.
You must bring large water bottles without a water filter during your trips. Not only are these bottles heavy, but they will also consume a significant amount of space.
A decent water filtration system is equivalent to an endless drinking water supply. Unlike numerous water bottles, water filters also weigh less and consume less space.
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It can remove all sorts of contaminants from your water
Water filters will also assure you that your drinking water is clean and free from sediments and other contaminants that could harm your and your family’s health.
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Improved taste and smell
Having a water filter for your RV can also improve the taste of the drinking water and remove any foul odors.
Long story short, having a water filter in your motorhome assures you of always having a constant and reliable supply of safe, high-quality drinking water, regardless of where you go.
The 10 Top-Rated RV Water Filters
1. Camco TastePURE 40043
Summary
If you’re looking for a suitable water filter for your RV, one of the best you can get right now is the 40043 TastePURE water filter by Camco.
The best thing about this particular model is its massive capacity. The system filter’s capacity is large enough to last for the entirety of the season.
The Camco 40043 TastePURE uses a sediment filter that is 20 microns thick and allows for high water flow, along with a carbon filter that helps significantly reduce bacteria growth in the treated water.
The design also involves making the body-wide, allowing the water filter to have a high water flow rate and an enormous capacity.
The granular activated carbon built into the system dramatically reduces foul odor, sour taste, and sediment in the drinking water.
This means that as long as you have a source of pot water, you will always have a safe and reliable way of obtaining drinking water.
The Camco 40043 TastePURE is also an excellent water filter for campsite use. This Camco filter can prevent the growth of bacteria, fungi, and mold inside it, even when it is not in use.
The water filter’s inline design helps ensure a streamlined flow of water. The hose protector is also flexible, reducing the possibility of kinking.
Pros:
- The high rate of water flow
- Large capacity
- Capable of reducing the growth of bacteria, molds, and fungi
- The streamlined flow of water due to the inline design
- Minimized chances of kinking because of the hose protector’s flexible design
Cons:
- Doesn’t have a case for added protection
2. Camco Evo Camper/RV Water Filter 40631
Summary
The Evo 40631 water filter by Camco is also an excellent recommendation. It is self-contained and can be easily attached to your RV’s water supply line.
This means that no matter the campground’s water source, this filter will ensure that you always have a reliable source of tasty, clean drinking water.
The Evo 40631 can filter contaminants such as bacteria and other microorganisms, particulates, and chemicals like chlorine. It accomplishes this by using both physical filtration and activated charcoal technology.
This results in a steady supply of clean and safe water, guaranteed to taste fresh and unique.
Another reason the Evo 40631 is an excellent choice for a water filter for your RV is that it is made to be functional not only with a recreational vehicle but also for camper use.
This means that you can use it with its extension hose or one of its polypropylene filter cartridges.
The Evo 40631 also comes with a bed of granular activated carbon, giving the filter an increased level of bacteria control. Its inline design also allows for a streamlined flow of water. Finally, the system itself is easy to install.
Pros:
- Effective at getting rid of undesired contaminants such as particulates and all sorts of chemicals from the water
- Made to be used either in the RV or during camping
- It can be used with either the available extension hose or with a filter cartridge
- Fast and easy installation
- The guaranteed streamlined flow of water
Cons:
- Tends leakage
3. Camco 40013 TastePURE KDF/Carbon Water Filter
Summary
Another offering from Camco is the 40013 TastePURE water filter, which is also a great alternative to the previously mentioned 40034 TastePURE water filter by Camco.
This filter has many possible uses because it protects your water from contaminants.
The 40013 TastePURE water filter can remove various chemical contaminants, such as aluminum, cadmium, iron, chlorine, hydrogen sulfide, lead, and heavy metals, as well as physical contaminants such as sediments and microorganisms (bacteria, fungi, molds).
Because it offers protection against such a wide array of contaminants, you can rest assured that this filter will leave your drinking water safe, healthy, and fresh-tasting.
The 40013 TastePURE water filter was designed with durability in mind. This premium product includes a 100-micron-thick fiber barrier that helps improve the filtration process.
The filter was also designed to be comprehensive, allowing for bigger capacity and making it last for the entirety of the season.
A flexible hose for reduced kinking and an inline design for a more streamlined water flow.
Pros:
- Protects from an extensive array of contaminants, both physical and chemical
- Delivers safe and fresh-tasting drinking water
- Durable, premium design
- 100-micron thick fiber barrier for a more effective filtration process
- Inline design for better water flow
- Reduced chances of kinking due to a flexible hose
Cons:
- Heavier compared to the competition
4. Camco Hydro Life 52700 Inline Water Filter
Summary
The final offering from Camco in this list is the 52700 Hydro Life Inline Water Filter, but the last is not the least. The 52700 Hydro Life Inline Water Filter is one of the best choices in the water filtration market.
One of its standout features is its catalytic carbon filtration, which helps ensure that the water it produces is clean, safe, and refreshing, regardless of the source of pot water.
Along with the catalytic carbon it uses, the KDF 85 helps reduce heavy metals and chloramines commonly found in pot water.
The KDF 85 works by trapping heavy metals. This is also very helpful in preventing bacteria growth, especially if the filter is left unused for a long period of time.
It also has the added benefit of increasing the longevity of the water filter. Combine this with the premium design, and you’ll get a reliable and durable water filter.
The wide body design also allows for high water flow, aided by the inline design for better flow. Finally, Camco’s 52700 Hydro Life water filter also has a massive 8000-gallon capacity.
The unit also comes with a flexible hose protector, which significantly minimizes the strain on the fixture or faucet caused by the water filter’s sheer weight.
Pros:
- It does a great job of reducing heavy metals and chloramines found in pot water.
- Lowers bacteria growth in the water
- Durable Design
- Excellent water flow due to the vast body and inline design
- Hose protector with high flexibility for reducing strain
Cons:
- Slight leakage
5. Culligan RV-800 Exterior Pre-Tank RV Water Filter
Summary
Aside from Camco, Culligan is also a great brand that produces reliable water filters. One of their products that can be easily recommended is the RV-800 Exterior Pre-tank RV water filter. This model is easy to install in RVs and can be used with boats, campers, and trailers.
The connection is so easy due to the flexible 12-inch hose with the unit.
Another great feature of the RV-800 is that it was designed to be slim, which makes it an excellent option for your recreational vehicle. The filter can also minimize lousy smell and taste.
The filter is also excellent at reducing bacteria and sediment in the water. The design aids this, allowing quick fill-ups and a high water flow rate.
A notable feature of Culligan’s offering is the bacteriostatic filter, which effectively limits bacteria growth.
Its cartridges also have a long lifespan, lasting up to 2,000 or more gallons. Finally, the RV-800 water filter from Culligan is compatible with the most common hose fittings, making it an excellent choice for your recreational vehicle due to its fast and easy installation.
Pros:
- Compatible with the most commonly found hose fittings, making it easy to be connected and used
- It can be used with RVs, boats, or even trailers
- Designed to be slim and have a high rate of flow
- Flexible 12-inch hose
- Effective in minimizing lousy taste and smell
- Long-lasting filter cartridges
- Bacteriostatic media capable of limiting the growth of bacteria
Cons:
- Lack of hose protector makes it vulnerable to kinking
6. Culligan 1019084 RV Water Filter
Summary
Another great product from Culligan is the 1019084 RV Drinking Water Filter. This filter has a solid and durable premium design, making it suitable for use outside the RV.
The construction is also superb, and the design ensures the water filter produces great-tasting water.
The unit also helps to ensure a clean water tank. The kit for fitting the hose is also convenient and easy to use. This, combined with the unit’s minimal size, makes the 1019084 RV Drinking water filter an excellent choice for your recreational vehicle.
If you buy this model, you’ll also find the design makes installation and storage easy.
This unit already has one filter cartridge, which you’ll find compelling for removing sediments, foul odor, and sour taste. It also does a great job of removing chlorine’s bad taste and foul smell in the water.
This unit also comes in a complete package, which includes almost everything you’ll need to install the unit, such as the kit for connecting the hose, housing for the filter, and cartridge replacement.
It also comes with a sticker that reminds you when to change the filter instructions for the installation process and how to operate the unit.
Pros:
- Solidly built with a sturdy design
- Produces great-tasting water
- Effective at removing contaminants
- Designed to be compact to allow for easy storage and installation
- Includes instructions for both the installation and the operation comes
- Filter cartridge for removing chlorine and sediments
Cons:
- Susceptible to leakage, especially if screwed incorrectly
7. Watts POE12DSA1KDF RV Water Filter
Summary
Another excellent option for a water filter for your RV is the POE12DSA1KDF RV Water Filter by Watts, which has a dual exterior design. This filter by Watts Water Technologies will do a great job of filtering the water in your RV.
Installing this filter in your recreational vehicle will give you peace of mind, as you will never run out of drinking water.
Watts’ offering effectively reduces the contaminants typically found in water. This filter is guaranteed to produce drinking water that is both clean and safe.
The unit uses a filter to remove sediments, including a media with multiple layers. This helps provide a large holding capacity and increases the filter’s longevity.
A KDF/GAC (filter is also responsible for removing inorganic contaminants before they reach the activated carbon part of the system. This also ensures that the filter is protected from bacteria growth.
The package includes a cartridge, a kit for attaching the hose fitting key, a bracket, and a wrench.
Pros:
- Effective at getting contaminants found in the water
- Produces clean drinking water that’s safe to drink
- Easy installation process
- Multi-ply media that provides a large holding capacity
- Guaranteed to last long
Cons:
- Output fitting is constructed from plastic and tends to leak
8. Clearsource Ultra RV Water Filter System with VirusGuard
Summary
Clearsource also offers a great product in the form of the Premium RV water filter. This filter has a premium design, which immediately shows that it was built with sturdiness in mind.
This results in a durable product suited even for the most rugged lifestyle.
The water filter has a durable metal chassis and a powder coating, making the product durable. The design is also beneficial because it makes the setup much more accessible.
The water filter has an impressive 5-micron sediment filter that does a great job of removing sediments. A carbon filter will be used this time after the sediment filter reaches the secondary filtration stage.
This also makes the filter effective at removing chemical contaminants in the water, such as chlorine, giardia, cysts, and organic and volatile compounds.
Clearsource’s offering is a premium product. This can be seen from its durable construction, which can withstand years of rugged use. The fittings are also sturdy and made from stainless steel. The built-in stand makes the water filter more convenient to use.
Pros:
- The design is premium and durable
- Powder coating and metal chassis make the product more rugged and sturdy
- Easy installation or set-up process
- Durable fittings made from stainless steel
- It comes with a stand that makes the product more convenient to use
Cons:
- Hose fittings are fixed, which means you’ll need to twist the hoses
9. Hydro Life 52141 HL-200
Summary
Another excellent recommendation for a water filter that you can buy for your motorhome is the 52141 HL-200 made by Hydro Life.
The water filter was designed to work with RVs, boats, or even trailers as long as they have an external water hook-up. This product filters the water before entering your motorhome’s storage tank.
What’s so great about this model is its adaptability, which allows you to install it permanently. It can also handle large volumes, removing significant lead and chlorine in the water.
This particular water filter also uses KDF media and granular-type activated carbon (GAC), so it will surely do a great job of filtering contaminants.
This filter will not only produce clean water but also taste great because it can eliminate foul smells and tastes.
The kit also comes with a connector for a garden hose, which you can easily use in place of cartridges without tools.
Pros:
- It can be used by RVs, boats, or even trailers if there is an external water hook-up.
- Adaptable design means you can install it permanently
- High-volume design, which also helps in getting rid of chlorine and lead
- Provides clean drinking water that tastes great and does not have any foul odors
- Cartridges can be replaced easily
Cons:
- Expensive replacement filters
10. Fette Filter’s 2-pack RV/Marine Inline Water Filter
Summary
Another easy-to-recommend water filter for RV and marine use is Fette Filter’s 2-pack RV and Marine Inline Water Filter.
One great feature of this filter is that it also includes two pieces of inline filters that can be used for both RV and marine, along with a hose protector that is also flexible.
This Fette Filter filter also has a comprehensive body designed to allow a high rate of water flow and a large capacity. Because of its massive capacity and increased water flow rate, this product can easily last for the entire camping season.
Another notable feature of the filter is its activated carbon stage, which makes it effective at providing a reliable supply of clean and safe drinking water.
Activated carbon can also improve water quality, which can improve the condition of hair, skin, and even nails.
This model also uses sediment filters, which are perfect for campsites because they significantly reduce chlorine and sediments in the water.
This model can provide you with a steady supply of drinking water that is safe, clean, and fresh, with no foul odors or bad taste.
This filter also has a decent lifespan, lasting up to three months. However, the exact lifespan will vary depending on the precise quality of the water from your water source.
Pros:
- It comes with two pieces of inline filters that are suited for both RV and marine use
- It provides a high rate of water flow
- Guaranteed large capacity of water
- It comes equipped with a hose protector that is also flexible
- It is sure to give you a reliable supply of clean drinking water
- The water produced is guaranteed to be free of nasty tastes and foul tastes
- Designed to be used effectively in campsites
Cons:
- It has to be replaced every camping season (or even shorter, depending on the exact quality of the water source)
Our top 10 choices in water filters are listed, along with a short review of why you should buy them.
Combined with the information you have received throughout this article, you should already be fully equipped with everything you need to choose the best water filter.
However, if lingering doubts still exist or questions remain unanswered, the following frequently asked questions can help you find the answers you need.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What are the good brands of water filters for my RV?
Water filters can be incredibly beneficial and essential for RVers, especially those always traveling or often camping.
Because of this, it’s not surprising that numerous brands try to establish themselves as the best water filters. However, finding the best water filter brand shouldn’t ever be a struggle.
One of the most established and distinguished brands of water filters for RVs is Camco. Their product line continues to impress due to their high quality and durability.
Aside from Camco, another brand famous for its excellent and reliable products is Culligan. This company’s products are well-known for their ease of use and versatility.
Their water filters shouldn’t be considered exclusive to RV use. They can also be used in trailers, boats, and camping.
Other brands worth looking at when shopping for a good water filter for your RV are CLEARSOURCE, Watts Water Technologies, and Hydro Life.
Camco 40043 versus Camco 40045: which one should you go for?
The Camco 40043 and the Camco 40045 are two of Camco’s best offerings in terms of functionality and quality. Since they are both Camco products, it’s not surprising that they share several attributes.
Both products come in two packs. They also feature inline designs that result in a high water flow rate.
The Camco 40043 and the Camco 40045 are famous for their capabilities.
Both products effectively reduce bad taste and foul odors and remove significant amounts of sediments and chlorine ordinarily present in drinking water.
The two products also exhibit high levels of versatility, allowing them to have numerous applications outside of being a water filter for an RV.
Both products can easily be connected to your typical gardening or water hose.
These products can be used in an RV, a boat, by campers, and even for washing pets or gardening. No matter what you use them for, expect these water filters to provide clean water.
However, these two products are not entirely alike in all aspects. One of the more significant differences is the Camco 40043’s package, which already comes with an even more flexible hose protector, unlike the Camco 40045, which requires you to purchase the hose protector separately.
In short, the Camco 40043 is better if you don’t want to spend more money on a separate hose protector.
Camco 40043 versus Camco 40013: which one should you go for?
Two other great Camco products that are often compared are the 40013 and the 40043.
Both water filters do a great job of removing sediment and chlorine and removing bad taste and smell from the water. They are also capable of lasting the entire camping season.
The deciding factor between these two products depends on the type of activated carbon you want. The 40013 comes with carbon with a high flow rate and KDF. The 40043, meanwhile, is equipped with granular activated carbon.
Should I only use the water filter for my water supply, or can all the water in my RV be filtered?
The best thing about water filters nowadays is that they can filter your entire water supply, not just your drinking water supply.
This means that you can ensure that all of the water in your motorhome is clean and safe, including the water used for washing or cooking.
This is important because using water from different sources can result in problems with your water supply.
Harmful microorganisms and chemicals may contaminate your water. For this reason, it is highly suggested that you filter all of your water.
If you want to filter all your water, you should look for an inline water filter that runs under the sink. Luckily, the installation of in-line water filters is generally accessible.
This type of water filter also has a bypass line that you can use if your RV is winterized.
Is reverse osmosis suitable for RV use?
Reverse osmosis, like chemical and sediment filtration, is another method of purifying water and is also suitable for RV use. Water produced through reverse osmosis will be highly purified, with low amounts of salt and minerals.
Aside from being a filter, reverse osmosis can also effectively soften and purify water. Considering all of these, it’s no wonder most RVers highly prefer reverse osmosis.
How long will the water filter in my RV remain effective?
Generally, RV water filters last three to 12 months. However, the duration varies between manufacturers and models. A good rule of thumb is to replace your water filter every three to six months.
If your filter was designed to last 12 months, then you should replace it every 9 to 12 months. A good indicator of when you should have your RV’s water filter changed is when the color or flow of the water is already affected.
If you notice that the water flow has become slower or that the water color has become darker, then your water filter probably needs to be replaced.
Can I filter hot water?
Sadly, you cannot. Hot water cannot be filtered properly by water filters made for RV use. The worst-case scenario is that it reverses the filtration process, releasing the contaminants back into the water. This means that you should use the water filter of your RV strictly on cold water only.
If you accidentally run hot water through your water filter, you will need to run cold water for about two minutes to remove all the hot water before you can use the filter again.
Do water filters leak?
Yes, water filters could leak. This is especially true if they’ve been used for a long time. However, if your water filter leaks, you should check it for damage. If you find any, then you need to replace it.
Leakage could also be caused by an error when installing the O-rings. Once again, in the event of leakage, you need to check your O-rings to see if they’re still complete and undamaged. You need to replace the filter if any are damaged or completely missing.
What are water filters made up of?
Most water filters on the market are made from filter media that traps contaminants. Usually, the filter media is an ultrafine web or a sieve, which acts like a filter to prevent unwanted particles from flowing with the water.
Filters can also be made to utilize the process of absorption. These filters have a medium that attracts the molecules of the unwanted particles and traps them.
How To Replace My RV’s Water Filter?
Just follow these steps to replace your water filter
- Loosen the canister using the canister wrench until you can remove it with your hands.
- Remove the filtering element and throw it away.
- Wash the canister
- Replace the filtering elements within the canisters. Ensure filter elements are placed inside the correct canister (the right canister carbon blocks of 0.5-micron thickness; on the other hand, the left canister accepts 5-micron filters for sediments).
- Place the canister back on the head of the mount.
- With the canister screw, tighten the canister back in place
- While screwing the canister back in, observe the canister’s O-ring. If any cracks can be seen, then it needs to be replaced. If it’s just dry, use silicone lubricant.
Additionally, when you replace the filter, you should check your hose washer to see if it’s cracked or dry, in which case it needs replacing.
How To Clean A Water Filter?
Cleaning your water filter will help tremendously in increasing its longevity. This means you don’t need to replace them often since doing so is expensive and bad for the environment.
Luckily, the cleaning process is not very difficult; follow these steps:
- Backflush the water filter by reversing the water flow. This is usually done using a syringe or a hose, which should come with the filter. If the water filter becomes dry due to not being used for a long time, you should first allow the water to flow in the expected direction before reversing the flow.
- Find out if your water filter can be brushed. If it can, brush it to remove accumulated gunk. In some water filters, you can skip the first step and go straight to brushing. Make sure that you use soft-bristled brushes only.
- Another method is to use chlorinated water to clean your water filters. Run about a gallon of chlorinated water through your filter to do this. This also removes any bacteria from your unit.
- If no chlorinated water is available, you can pour eight drops of liquid bleach (clear and unscented) into about a gallon of tap water. Stir the mixture and let it sit for at least 30 minutes. Afterward, use it like you would use the chlorinated water. If you want to clean your unit with something more substantial, then you can increase the concentration of the bleach solution (one cup of bleach per liter of tap water).
- Let your filter dry thoroughly. However, don’t place the unit in direct sunlight. Set your filter in a warm area with proper ventilation is preferable.
How Do I Install The Water Filter Into My RV?
The first step in installing a water filter in your RV is installing rubber hose seals on the two sides of the canister and the off valve of the garden hose.
Wrap all the fittings with the plumber’s tape and line the canisters up in the correct flow pattern.
Afterward, the fittings of the PVC pipe and the hose adapters were set up on the canister’s two sides. Then, you need to install the canister’s O-ring and set the filter cartridge next to it.
Tighten the head of the filter cartridge and repeat the same process with a carbon filter. After that, shut off your RV’s water supply.
Connect your water line to the canister once your water supply has been turned off.
Get a 3-foot water hose (compatible with the RV hose) and connect it to the canister and the inlet.
After that, turn your RV’s water supply back on. Once it’s back up, you should take this opportunity to check for any leakage. If you find any, then you need to screw the fittings tighter.
Once everything’s done, you must find a place to place the filter. After you find your preferred location, you can use the brackets provided to mount the filter.
This video has been included to clarify the topic. Credit goes to Ryders InMotion Fulltime RV Living
Final Words
RV Water Filters are essential for any recreational vehicle (RV) owner. These filters are designed to purify the water supply within an RV, removing harmful substances such as bacteria and chlorine, thus ensuring a safe and clean water source.
Various filters are available on the market, each designed to target specific contaminants. Their effectiveness largely depends on their lifespan, ease of installation, and ability to remove impurities.
When choosing RV water filters, assessing the filter’s lifespan is crucial. A longer lifespan means less frequent replacements, leading to cost savings in the long run. Ease of installation is another critical factor to consider.
Easy-to-install filters save time and eliminate the need for professional assistance. Lastly, the filter’s ability to remove contaminants is paramount in ensuring the safety of the water supply.
Maintenance is also critical to optimal filter performance. Regularly checking and replacing filters as needed can prevent the buildup of contaminants and keep the water clean and safe.
In conclusion, RV water filters are vital for RV owners to ensure a clean and safe water supply. RV owners can make an informed decision when purchasing these essential devices by considering lifespan, ease of installation, contaminant removal capabilities, and regular maintenance.
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