Best Water Filters for RV Camping

Why do I need a water filter for my RV?

As RVs travel to different locations, the water quality can vary greatly between campgrounds. Some may have clean city water supplies, while others utilize local well water sources that could contain rust, debris and other contaminants. RV water filter system is critical to remove impurities from these inconsistent hookups. A basic camper water filter can make water taste better. More sophisticated systems can potentially prevent illness.

By filtering out dirt, bacteria, chlorine, and debris, RV filters ensure safe drinking and cooking water. They also allow comfortable showering without sediment or odors. Moreover, filtration prevents buildup in plumbing systems while protecting your health from questionable sources. Investing in the right RV-specific filtration provides peace of mind by delivering cleaner, safer water regardless of location. Having access to pure freshwater is an essential upgrade that benefits all RVers, full-time or occasional.

local well water sources

Whether RV water is safe for drinking?

Drinking water safety in RVs depends on the source and storage conditions. Tanks filled at home with clean city water are likely safe if kept sanitized and fresh. Campground connections to municipal supplies also provide clean water. However, well water sources carry more risks of contamination from natural impurities. To be certain your water is potable and palatable, invest in an onboard RV water filtration system. This removes potential bacteria, chemicals, or metals acquired in tanks or plumbing en route. While some sources seem safe, there are many unseen factors that can compromise water quality. RV filters give added peace of mind when visiting questionable water sources. Don't leave safety to chance - proactively filter water for confidence in your RV's water supply.

best rv water filter system

Types of RV water filters

Inline RV Water Filters

Inline filters are installed at the junction where the campground water hookup attaches to the RV's hose. This allows for easy installation and replacement of filter cartridges. Inline filters are portable and ideal for part-time RVers. However, inline camper water filters must be fully replaced every 3-6 months rather than just having their cartridge swapped out. Their simple construction means the entire unit loses filtration effectiveness over a season of use, also reducing water flow. To maintain contaminant removal and water pressure, inline water filters are designed for complete replacement.

Inline RV Water Filters

Canister RV Water Filters

Canister systems filter all water entering the RV through multi-stage filtration cartridges. Customizable filters target specific contaminants like sediment, bacteria, or chemicals. Direct internal installation avoids connecting/disconnecting. But regular cartridge changes are required and leaks can go undetected if hidden.

Countertop RV Water Filters

These portable units filter water at the faucet source. Countertop filters are economical and simple to use for treating campground water. But they take up interior space and only filter one faucet's water, not the whole RV's supply. Pairing with an inline filter improves overall water filtration.

Reverse Osmosis RV Water Filters

Reverse osmosis thoroughly filters water using dense membranes that remove virtually all impurities. However, these systems waste significant water since they discard impure water. The purification process is expensive and slows water flow. RO filters are overkill for casual RVing but beneficial for extended stays in areas with contaminated water supplies.

Ultraviolet RV Water Filters

UV light effectively kills bacteria, viruses, and microorganisms for pathogen-free water. Easy to use and affordable, UV doesn't reduce flow rate or affect water composition. For whole-RV filtration, pair with a canister system. UV light disinfects water but does not remove sediments or improve taste/odor like carbon filtration. Replacing UV bulbs yearly maintains a sterile water supply.

For casual RVing, inline and countertop filters provide adequate affordable filtration. Canister systems offer heavy-duty customizable filtration for full-time RVers. UV and reverse osmosis provide maximum water purification when needed but may exceed requirements for weekend camping trips. Choose the RV water filter type that best fits your RV lifestyle and regular travel locations.

Do RV water filters remove chlorine?

RV water filters are effective at removing most chlorine from water to improve taste and odor. However, a small amount of chlorine may remain for fresh water to be continued disinfection. The majority of RV water filters will reduce chlorine levels by over 90% for more refreshing drinking and showering water.

How to Choose the Best RV Water Filter?

  • Micron Rating - This refers to the size of particles an RV filter can remove, with lower microns indicating smaller particles filtered out. Lower microns provide superior filtration but can slow water flow.
  • NSF Rating - National Sanitation Foundation ratings classify filters' contaminant removal abilities. Higher NSF classes like I and II denote better filtration than lower classes.
  • Filter Life - Check expected lifespan under normal use. Longer filter life means less frequent cartridge changes.
  • Flow Rate - Expressed in gallons per minute, flow rate indicates the filtration system's water flow. Higher rates maintain good pressure but lower rates increase contact time for improved filtration.
  • Filter Material - The composition of the filter medium impacts contaminant removal. Activated carbon effectively absorbs many impurities.

Consider your RV's water quality needs and usage to determine ideal micron ratings, NSF rating, filter life, flow rate and materials. Balance superior contaminant removal with adequate water pressure and filter replacement frequency. Checking reviews for real-world performance data helps choose the right RV water filter model for your requirements. Investing in the proper filtration ensures a steady supply of fresh purified water in your RV for stress-free travels.

If you're in the market for a new inline RV water filter, the Kohre RV Inline Water Filter is a great option that uses activated carbon to filter chlorine and other contaminants.

Kohree RV Inline Water Filter

Kohree Inline RV Water Filter utilizes advanced filtration technology to provide cleaner, contaminant-free water for your motorhome. This NSF and BPA-free certified filter removes 97% of chlorine and unwanted tastes and odors thanks to its multi-stage filtration with granular activated carbon (GAC) and KDF media.

Multiple filtration cartridge

With a substantial 1057 gallon lifetime capacity and fast 0.5 gpm flow rate, this RV filter delivers ample volumes of water without slowing your plumbing system. The 20 micron rating traps particulates as tiny as 20/1000 of a millimeter for thorough filtration.

Built rugged for life on the road, Kohree constructs this inline filter using thick, blast-tested food-grade plastic to prevent cracking. Each unit can endure an entire camping season before requiring cartridge replacement.

Connecting directly to your RV's water hose or faucet, the Kohree RV Filter provides cleaner water for drinking, cooking, showering and more. Reliable water purification gives peace of mind when hooked up to questionable campground supplies.

Wide Application

How to Install Your Kohree Inline Water Filter?

Proper installation of your new Kohree Inline Water Filter will ensure it can effectively filter all water entering your RV or watercraft. Follow these simple steps:

  1. Attach the incoming water supply hose to the inlet side of the filter, oriented so the arrow on the filter points in the direction of water flow.
  2. Connect the outlet end of the filter to the RV or boat's water supply inlet. The filter should be installed in-line between the supply hose and vehicle inlet.
  3. Alternatively, the filter can be installed at the water source by connecting it directly to the faucet prior to attaching your hose. Be sure to vertically drain and store the filter in a freeze-protected area when not in use.

With just a few quick connections, your Kohree water filter will be ready to provide a steady flow of purified water for all your mobile water needs.

Is It Worth Cleaning RV Water Filters? Factors to Consider

Cleaning RV water filters is possible but must be done with care to avoid damaging fragile internal components. While cleaning can extend the lifespan somewhat, it may not fully restore filtration capacity, allowing contaminants to bypass the filter. Thorough cleaning is essential using only food-safe ingredients to prevent chemicals ending up in your drinking water.

Whether cleaning your RV water filter is worthwhile depends on the filter type, your time commitment, and if you value cost savings over convenience. Sediment-style filters tend to clean more safely. Replacing filters is easier and ensures contaminant removal, so frequent RVers may prefer replacement over cleaning. Evaluate your specific filter, time availability, and budget considerations when deciding between cleaning or replacing RV water filters. With careful methods, cleaning can offer savings but replacement guarantees optimal performance.

How often should you replace RV water filters?

Plan to change your RV water filters every 3 to 6 months as a general guideline. However, filter life depends on the specific model and your usage. If you notice reduced water flow, unusual tastes, or other changes in performance, replace the filters immediately - even if it's been less than 3 months. Some high capacity filters may last over 6 months, so consult your owner's manual for the recommended replacement interval. More frequent camping trips or full-time RV living will require more regular filter changes than occasional weekend use. Proactively changing filters on schedule ensures your RV water system delivers optimized filtration and water pressure all season long.

Conclusion

Having access to clean, filtered water is a must for any RV adventure. Investing in a quality water filtration system tailored for RV use ensures you and your family stay healthy and hydrated no matter where the open road takes you. Choosing the right filter type and capacity rating that meets your needs provides peace of mind when hooking up to questionable campground water sources. Take time to properly install and maintain your RV water filter per the manufacturer’s recommendations. Then relax and enjoy all of your favorite activities knowing your mobile home’s water supply is filtered and fresh. With the convenience of purified water at every tap or faucet, you can focus on creating fun memories while exploring the beautiful campsites this country has to offer. Safe travels and happy camping!

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