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Last Updated on November 28, 2024 by Paul Clayton
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How Often Should You Replace an RV Water Filter?
Replacing an RV water filter is critical to maintaining water quality within your recreational vehicle. The answer depends on several factors, such as the filter type, the source water quality, and the usage level.
- General rule: replace every 3 to 6 months.
- Sediment filters need replacement every 1-2 months.
- Carbon filters last 3-6 months, handling odors and tastes.
- Occasional RV use may extend the filter lifespan to six months.
- Full-time RV living requires filter replacement every three months.
- Water quality affects replacement frequency; poor quality requires more.
- Regularly check the filter for pressure decrease and taste or smell changes.
- Heavy water usage, like on long trips, may prompt early replacement.
- Keep a log for tracking filter lifespan and timely replacements.
If you are like me, you want to spend as much time as possible in your RV. Drinking, bathing, and cooking in fresh, potable water is essential. That’s why modern RVs come with water filters.
However, water filters do not last forever; you must change them periodically.
So, how often should you change your RV water filter? On average, expect to change your RV water filter every six months. During periods of heavy use, you may need to change more often, and as much as every three months.
Further on, this article will discuss the types of RV filters, how often we should replace them, and the signs you should look for that mean you should place them. Read on to find out more.
Types of RV Water Filters
As you travel in your RV, you are bound to come across various types of water. Most of it should be safe to drink, but it doesn’t always taste excellent. To get around this, you can use an RV water filter.
A filter can help remove sediments, nasty chemicals, and other unwanted contaminants in your water. Let’s take a look at the different types of filters.
Hose Filter
A hose filter is one of the simplest types of water filter you can get. Installed in line on your RV water line will help clean out sediments and other contaminants. It is not great at cleaning out chemicals and other unwanted nasties in the water.
Hose filters need to be changed as often as once every three months.
Canister Filter
Canister filters are standard in residential homes. They are typically made up of one or more filters, including carbon filtration systems. They are excellent at removing contaminants and the chemical taste from water.
The more canisters you have, the cleaner the water will be.
For example, a cartridge system will contain multiple filter types to remove phosphates and sediments, as well as filters to improve the taste of the water.
Canister filters last longer and may not need to be changed for 12 months or more.
Two types of RVs are available for the not commonly found; these could include reverse osmosis, ceramic filters, and sediment filters.
Are all RV Water Filters the Same Size?
RV water filters come in different sizes to cater to the diverse needs of various RV models and user preferences.
The standard size for an RV water filter is approximately 2.5″ in diameter and 10″ (9.75″-9.875″) tall.
However, there are also jumbo-sized filters available that measure around 4.5″ in diameter and 10″ (9.75″ – 9.875″) tall.
Do RV Water Filters Remove Chlorine?
Yes, RV water filters remove a significant amount of chlorine from water, although they are not foolproof.
The efficiency of chlorine removal depends on the filter’s type and quality.
While some high-end models may eliminate up to 99% chlorine, most standard RV water filters can effectively filter out up to 90%.
Therefore, while RV water filters may not offer complete chlorine removal, they significantly reduce the chlorine content in the water, making it safer and more pleasant for consumption and use.
How to Tell When Your RV Water Filter Needs to be Replaced
There are a few telltale signs that you look out for that will tell you to change your water filter.
These include:
- smelly water
- water that is no longer clear
- water that tastes of chemicals
- or the filter looks dirty
Can you Clean an RV Water Filter?
So, the time has come to change your RV water filter, but can you clean the existing one rather than buy a new one?
While it’s certainly possible, it’s not something that we would recommend you do. The risk of damaging your RV filter is high, and you may have more contaminants in your water.
Even light damage significantly impacts the efficiency of the RV water filter. In a worst-case scenario, incorrect cleaning off your RV water filter can lead to bacterial growth and mold.
While RV water filters can be expensive, it’s better to be safe than sorry about clean drinking water.
What Happens if You Never Change the Water Filter?
An unchanged filter loses effectiveness and becomes a breeding ground for harmful bacteria and microorganisms.
Over time, the filter, which is supposed to protect you from possible water contaminants, becomes a source of potential health hazards.
The residual contaminants and the growing microorganisms in the filter could eventually make their way into your drinking water, posing serious health risks.
What is the Best Water Filter for an RV?
There are several excellent options available for 2024:
The Camco TastePure is a top choice for primary use, effectively reducing bad taste, odors, chlorine, and sediment.
If you’re on a budget, the Aqua Crest RV Inline Hose Water Filter is a cost-effective option that still delivers high-quality filtration.
The APEC Water Systems ROES-50 is a top performer for those seeking an under-sink solution.
The Camco EVO stands out as the best RV water filter overall.
For those whose budget is no object, the Clearsource Ultra provides exceptional filtration quality.
How do I know what size RV water filter I need?
Determining the correct size of an RV water filter is crucial to ensure the effective filtration of your water supply while on the road.
The size you need largely depends on your water consumption and the specific model of your RV.
To find out what size of RV water filter you need, first, estimate your daily water usage. Larger families or groups will likely require a larger filter.
Second, check your RV’s user manual or consult the manufacturer for specific recommendations.
Remember, having the correct size of RV water filter not only guarantees clean water but also prolongs the lifespan of your RV’s plumbing system.
How do I Stop my RV Water from Smelling?
This common issue among RV owners can be addressed with a few simple steps.
First, a regular flushing of your water heater is crucial. Over time, sediment can build up in the bottom of the heater, producing an unpleasant odor when heated.
You can prevent this buildup by flushing the system regularly and maintaining a fresh-smelling water supply.
Another step to consider is using hydrogen peroxide or vinegar to neutralize bacteria, which is often the cause of foul odors in your water system.
These substances are safe and effective methods for sanitizing your water system and eliminating smell-causing bacteria.
Lastly, consider incorporating an aluminum-zinc anode in your water system. This acts as a sacrificial metal that attracts corrosive substances in your water that can cause unpleasant odors.
Its implementation can prevent future odors and add to the longevity of your system.
By taking these steps, you will be well on your way to maintaining a pleasant and odor-free water system in your RV.
Keep up with these practices, and you will improve the smell of your water and the overall experience of your RV adventures.
Final Words
The frequency of replacing an RV water filter largely depends on the type of filter and the frequency of RV use. As a general rule, it is recommended that you return an RV water filter every 3 to 6 months.
However, this timeline may vary based on specific factors. For instance, sediment filters primarily remove dirt and debris from water and require a more frequent replacement cycle every 1 to 2 months.
On the other hand, carbon filters, designed to handle odors and tastes, have a longer lifespan and can last between 3 to 6 months before requiring replacement.
The frequency of RV usage also plays an essential role in determining how often you should replace an RV water filter. The filter lifespan could extend to six months for occasional RV users, while full-time RV living warrants a filter replacement every three months.
Additionally, the quality of water being filtered significantly affects the replacement frequency. Poor quality water necessitates more frequent filter replacements.
It’s essential to regularly check your RV water filter for any signs of pressure decrease or taste or smell changes as these are indicators that your filter may need to be replaced sooner.
Also, remember that heavy water usage, such as during long trips, may prompt early replacement of your RV water filter.
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