Water Tank Filtration System Options and Considerations

Choosing the right water tank filtration system can be overwhelming, but understanding your options can make all the difference. There are several types of filtration systems available, including mechanical, chemical, and biological systems.

Mechanical systems are designed to remove suspended solids and particulate matter from the water. They typically use a filter medium, such as a sediment filter or a cartridge filter, to capture particles as small as 1 micron.

Chemical systems, on the other hand, use disinfectants or oxidizers to kill bacteria and other microorganisms. These systems can be effective, but they can also leave behind residues that can affect the taste and odor of the water.

For a more natural approach, consider a biological system, which uses beneficial bacteria to break down organic matter and improve water quality.

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There are four main types of water filtration systems, and three of them are perfect for RV and camper van use.

Mechanical Filtration is a type of filtration that uses physical barriers to remove contaminants from water. It's a simple yet effective method that can be used in RV water filtration systems.

Activated Carbon Filtration is another type of filtration that uses activated carbon to remove chlorine, taste, and odor from water. It's a great option for RV owners who want to improve the taste of their drinking water.

UV Water Purification uses ultraviolet light to kill bacteria and other microorganisms in water. This method is also suitable for RV water filtration systems and provides an additional layer of protection against contaminated water.

Here are the four types of water filtration systems, listed for easy reference:

Particle size is a crucial metric to consider when evaluating the effectiveness of a water filtration system.

A 5 micron filter will filter all particles greater than or equal to 5 microns.

The threshold for what a human can see is around 25 microns.

A 20 micron filter is good for extending the life of more fine-grained water filter mediums by straining out larger particles.

However, a 20 micron filter is not sufficient for filtering out much more than physical particles.

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There are four types of water purification, and I'd like to break them down for you.

UV water purification is a type of purification that uses a germicidal ultraviolet wavelength to kill off harmful contaminants. This process doesn't remove anything, but rather disrupts the DNA in pathogenic bacteria and viruses, rendering them unable to reproduce.

Here are the four types of water purification:

UV water purification is especially effective for inactivating bacteria like E.coli and salmonella, which are too small to be removed by mechanical or carbon filtration.

Filtration systems are a crucial part of keeping your water tank clean and safe to drink. Inline canisters are generally systems of 2-3 mechanical and carbon filters that provide narrowing levels of filtration, starting at 5 microns and ending with a filter of .2 microns.

The ClearSource Ultra RV Water Filter is a fixed 3 stage filtration system that includes a 5 micron mechanical filter, a .5 micron carbon filter, and a patented VirusGuard filter that traps bacteria and viruses. It's an excellent filter, but it does require quite a bit of space for mounting.

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For those who prefer a more portable option, Shurflo Waterguard filters are a premium product with improved construction and better filtration. They're filled with a carbon/KDF blend and provide slower flow rates due to finer filtration (5 microns).

Here are some popular filtration systems to consider:

Ultimately, the best filtration system for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences. Be sure to consider factors such as flow rate, filtration level, and maintenance requirements when making your decision.

Mechanical filtration is a type of water filtration that uses a strainer to keep particulate matter out of the water. It's like a mesh filter that catches sediment, and it's usually placed on the entry or exit to the water tank.

These filters are rated by what micron they filter down to, with smaller microns indicating finer filtration. In most systems, a mesh filter is used as the first stage to filter out coarse particles.

Mechanical filtration is often used in stages to filter from coarse to fine, so you don't clog up your fine strainer with large particles. This is especially important in systems with multiple stages, like 3-stage inline canister systems.

Reverse Osmosis systems work by pushing contaminated water through a permeable membrane that allows only certain molecules through.

This process leaves water on the other side of the membrane de-ionized and decontaminated. Typically, there is a 1:1 pure water to waste water ratio, which means you'll have to discard just as much water as you get.

For nomadic folks with small water tanks, water conservation is of utmost importance. This makes Reverse Osmosis systems a less ideal choice for van life due to the excess waste water generated.

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Three-Stage Inline Canister Systems are a popular choice for RVs and camper vans due to their ease of installation, service, and ability to filter water to a safe degree.

They typically consist of 2-3 mechanical and carbon filters, with narrowing levels of filtration, starting at 5 microns as the first filter and ending with a filter of .2 microns.

This level of filtration is excellent for removing bad tastes, odors, and physically visible sediment, making them a great option for those who want a reliable and effective filtration system.

We have experience with and recommend ClearSource and BluTech systems, which have proven to be top-notch in terms of performance and durability.

These systems are perfect for those who want a hassle-free filtration solution that won't break the bank.

The Culligan RV-800 is a hose-end filter that's certified by the National Science Foundation (NSF). It's the only hose-end filter we reviewed that meets this standard.

The NSF approval requires a 25 percent chlorine removal efficiency, which the Culligan unit achieves by restricting flow rates to 2.5 gallons per minute. This means you'll need to be patient when using this filter.

The Culligan RV-800 was less expensive than the Shurflo Waterguard, costing about $27 each. It's a good choice if you're a stickler for staying within the NSF guidelines and can live with slower flow rates.

Here are some key specs to consider:

This filter is a good option if you're looking for a hose-end filter that meets NSF standards, but keep in mind that it may not be the most efficient choice for filtering out smaller particles.

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Filtration systems are a crucial part of any water collection or storage setup, and there are many options available. One option to consider is the Shurflo Waterguard Filters, which have improved construction and better filtration, making them a premium product.

These filters are filled with a carbon/KDF blend, but they provide a slower flow rate due to finer filtration (5 microns). This means less chance of biological growth, which is a plus, but may not be suitable for everyone, especially those with larger tanks.

The Clean Rain Advanced system has some impressive features, including the Clean Shield technology that deflects leaves and debris away from the flow of water, allowing for greater flow rates and maximizing collection of rainwater to the tank/cistern.

The system also comes with a compact inline First Flush Diverter that diverts the first flush of rainwater, which contains contaminants, to storm water. This is made possible by the Smart Sense technology, which automatically adjusts to divert the optimum amount of dirty rainwater down the downspout.

In addition to these features, the Clean Rain Advanced system has a stainless steel mesh screening that prevents mosquitoes, bugs, and vermin from entering your rainwater through the system.

Here are some of the key features and benefits of the Clean Rain Advanced system:

Filtering prior to tank is a crucial step in ensuring clean water for your household. It prevents sediment and biomass from building up in the tank, which can be difficult to remove later.

Many people don't bother to filter their water before it goes into the tank, but it's a vital step in maintaining cleanliness. The first rule of sanitation is cleanliness, and allowing significant accumulations of dirt and biomass to build up in the tank can be detrimental.

Prevention is key, and there are three parts to prevention: draining and drying the water tank, filling pipes with a bacteriostatic fluid, and performing an annual spring cleaning and disinfection. This will help prevent sediment and biomass from entering the tank.

Even when the dockside water supply is well supervised and safe, pipe scale and sediment can still pass down the pipe, and algae will always grow in the hose. Filtering at the inlet is essential to prevent these issues.

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A filter with a minimum of 10-micron filtration is recommended to catch course sediment, pipe scale, and larger clumps of algae. This can be easily accomplished with pleated elements or spiral-wound cartridges.

If you're cruising remote areas where high-sediment water is unavoidable, consider using a one-micron filter, such as the DIY Baja Filter.

Van life requires some special considerations when it comes to water tank filtration systems.

Space is a major concern in camper vans, and installing a filtration system during the van build stage is usually easiest.

Water filters generally don't require power, but UV water purifiers and off-grid portable systems are exceptions.

Reverse Osmosis is not a recommended method of water filtration for van life. It's because of the high water waste ratio, typically 1:1, where for every clean cup of water you get, you have to discard another cup.

This means you'll be using up your precious water tank space and resources quickly. Water conservation is crucial for nomadic folks with small water tanks.

The reject stream, which is the waste water, can be a significant concern in van life. It's not just about the waste itself, but also the space and resources needed to handle it.

This is why we recommend alternative methods of water filtration that are more suitable for van life.

Living out of a van or RV can be a wonderful experience, but it's essential to consider the unique challenges that come with it. One of the key considerations is water filtration, which is crucial for a safe and healthy lifestyle on the road.

The ClearSource Ultra RV Water Filtration System is a top choice for its effectiveness in removing particulates, rust, bacteria, and even small viruses from water, making it perfect for RVs where space is not an issue.

Water stagnation is a concern for part-time RV users, as it can lead to the growth of bacteria and algae if water sits for too long. Draining the water system when not in use for extended periods can help mitigate this issue.

If you're using a carbon filter, be aware that it can pull out chlorine, which can prevent algae growth. However, placing it before the water tank can potentially worsen water stagnation problems.

Changing the filters in your camper van is a crucial maintenance task. Generally, filters should be replaced every 3-6 months.

Your water filtration system and water usage will determine how often you need to replace the filters. The best bet is to follow the guidance on whichever filter you choose.

It's surprising how often you should change the water filters, but it's more frequently than you might think.

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Installing water filters in camper vans requires careful consideration of space, as it can be a limited resource. Space is the biggest requirement for water filter installation in camper vans.

If you can install your filtration system during the van build stage, it will be the easiest option. This allows for a more streamlined and efficient installation process.

Water filters generally don't require power, which is a plus for van life. The only exceptions to this are UV water purifiers, which need power to operate, and off-grid portable systems, which need power to run the water pump.

Choosing the right camper van can be a daunting task, especially if you're new to the lifestyle. The best camper van for you is one that you'll feel comfortable living in, with systems that you trust.

It's essential to consider the water filtration system, as it will provide you with clean drinking water. We personally recommend using a Blu Tech 3 Stage Canister System to filter water into the tank.

The Shurflo Waterguard Filters are a premium product, but they come with a slower flow rate due to finer filtration. This might be acceptable for smaller tanks, but it's something to consider if you have a larger tank.

The Shurflo Waterguard Filters last about two years and are relatively expensive, at $37 each. However, they're a good choice for off-the-shelf, hose-end filtration.

Here's a quick comparison of some popular water filtration systems:

Ultimately, the right camper van for you is one that meets your needs and budget. Take the time to research and test different systems to find the one that works best for you.

Shurflo Waterguard filters are a premium product with improved construction and better filtration, making them a great choice for off-the-shelf, hose-end filtration. They provide finer filtration (5 microns) but may be too slow for sailors with larger tanks.

Activated Carbon Filtration is another popular option, which pulls contaminants out of water through a process called adsorption. One gram of activated carbon has 32,000 square feet of surface area!

Carbon filters are commonly used to remove chlorine and other contaminants from water, and are often used as pre-filters for main filtration systems. They come in different types, such as carbon block filters, which are densely packed and provide more filtering than granulated activated carbon filters.

Here are some key features of different types of water filtration:

The Pentek S-1 is a 20-micron polyester/cellulose pleated element filter that provided good flow and appropriate filtration. However, it's not recommended for well-water or intermittent flow because the cellulose element will allow bacterial growth and will rot.

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This filter is an example of what not to buy for marine applications. Use only cellulose-free elements in marine applications.

If you're looking for a filter that provides good flow and filtration, but don't want to deal with the hassle of cellulose elements, there are other options available. For example, the Shurflo Waterguard Filters provide slower flow rate due to finer filtration (5 microns), but they're a premium product that lasts about two years.

Here's a comparison of the Pentek S-1 and the Shurflo Waterguard Filters:

The Shurflo Waterguard Filters are a better option if you're willing to sacrifice some flow rate for finer filtration. But if you need a filter that provides good flow and filtration without the hassle of cellulose elements, you may want to consider other options.

The Clean Rain Advanced is an all-in-one rainwater filtration and collection system that's perfect for RVs and campervans. It features Clean Shield technology that sheds leaves and a Smart Sense first flush diversion system that automatically activates when water is detected.

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This system is designed for ease of use, with simple and reliable mechanics that make it a practical choice for all. The filter is designed to direct water to a pool, garden, rainwater tanks/cisterns, or rain barrels, and the body rotates 180° for easy adaptation to different installation environments.

A key feature of the Clean Rain Advanced is its ability to filter out contaminants and sediment, making it a great option for RVs and campervans. With a filtration rating of 10 microns or less, you can be sure that your water is clean and safe to drink.

Here's a comparison of some popular RV water filtration systems:

As you can see, the ClearSource Ultra is a top-of-the-line option that filters out even the smallest particles, while the Camco TastePure is a more budget-friendly option that still provides good filtration. The Hydronix SPC-25-1010 is a great mid-range option that offers good filtration and value for the price.

Ultimately, the best RV water filtration system for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences. But with so many great options available, you're sure to find one that fits your budget and provides the clean, safe water you need.

Testing and recommendations for a water tank filtration system can be overwhelming, but it's essential to find the right solution for your needs.

Consider the Camco Taste PURE Inline Water Filter, a popular choice for van builds. It's a great option for those who want a simple and effective solution.

If you're looking for a more comprehensive system, the 3 Stage Canister Systems might be the way to go. This system provides multiple layers of filtration, ensuring your water is clean and safe to drink.

Ultimately, the choice of water filter or purifier depends on your personal use case and preferences.

We tested various water filters to see how they perform in different areas. Our testing included four key elements: basic observation, flow rates, chlorine removal, and filter dissection when expended.

We observed the filters in their natural environment to get a sense of how they function in real-world conditions. This allowed us to note any notable characteristics or issues that arose.

We measured the flow rates of each filter to determine how well they can handle different water volumes. This is an important factor to consider when choosing a filter for your specific needs.

Chlorine removal was another crucial aspect we tested. We wanted to see how effectively each filter could remove chlorine from the water.

We also disassembled the filters when they were expended to see how well they were constructed and what materials were used. This helped us understand the durability and quality of each filter.

We relied on industry ratings and certifications from manufacturers like Camco, Filtersfast, Forespar, Hydronix, Pentair, Shurflo, Vetus Marine, and Whitecap Industries, many of which are NSF certified. NSF certification means that the units have been tested extensively and meet certain standards for quality and performance.

Here's a list of the manufacturers we tested, which may be helpful if you're considering a specific brand:

When choosing a water filtration system for your camper van or RV, there are several options to consider.

The Camco Taste PURE Inline Water Filter is a popular choice, as it's easy to install and can be attached directly to your water hose.

A 3 Stage Canister System is another option, which typically includes a sediment filter, an activated carbon filter, and a reverse osmosis membrane.

The Acuva UV Water Purifier uses ultraviolet light to kill bacteria and viruses, making it a great choice for those who want a chemical-free option.

The Travel Berkey is a popular choice among campers and RVers, as it's easy to use and can filter out a wide range of contaminants.

For those who want a more comprehensive system, an Off Grid System for Fresh Water Pumping + Filtration is a great option, which includes a water pump and filtration system in one unit.

Here are some of the options we've discussed, along with their key features:

Potable water sources can pick up sediment and bacteria between leaving the source and entering your holding tank.

You just never know when you might need to filter "potable" water, even if it's labeled as safe.

Adding filtration or purification to your water tank can put your mind at ease, especially when traveling in a van.

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Water stagnation is a concern for van and RV owners who don't live full-time on the road.

If water sits for too long, bacteria and algae can begin to grow.

Placing carbon filters before your water tank can potentially make water stagnation problems worse.

Continuous water flow is less of an issue for full-time travelers like us.

Part-time travelers might want to consider draining their water system when not in use for extended periods of time.

You might be wondering why filtering your water is a big deal, especially if you're filling up at "potable" water spigots. However, even potable water sources can pick up sediment and bacteria along the way.

Sediment and bacteria can sneak into your holding tank, making filtration a must-have for peace of mind.

Filtering water with a carbon block removes bad odors and taste, which can still exist in potable water. This is especially noticeable when you're traveling and your water tastes different from what you're used to.

In the world of water tank filtration systems, guides and tutorials can be a lifesaver.

A well-maintained filtration system can last up to 10 years with proper care and maintenance.

To get started, you'll need to understand the different types of filtration systems available, including mechanical, chemical, and biological filtration.

Mechanical filtration is the most common type, using filters to remove debris and sediment from the water.

Regular maintenance is key, with filters needing to be replaced every 6-12 months.

A good rule of thumb is to test the water quality every 3-6 months to ensure the system is working effectively.

You can also consider upgrading to a more advanced system, such as a UV filter, which can help kill bacteria and other microorganisms.

Remember, a clean and well-maintained filtration system is essential for providing safe and clean drinking water.

Filtration while filling the tanks makes a real difference in tank sludge and hygiene.

You don't need to install filters with more capacity than you'll need in a year, as they can be removed and replaced annually. In climates that winterize, the elements must be removed before winterizing.

A 6,000-gallon capacity is more than enough for most sailors, representing 150 40-gallon fill-ups. Only a few units have a rated capacity of less than 7 gpm.

Hose-end filters are convenient, but universal pleated cartridges offer better filtration and more options. We recommend using a 2-by-10-inch cartridge with 5- to 10-micron filtration.

Mount the filter on the boat end of the hose, not the dock end, to minimize sludge buildup. The hose may be the greatest source of sludge.

Our do-it-yourself filter was a top performer, offering 1-micron filtration, high solids capacity, economy, and easy cleaning. It's the best filter for rainwater and jerry can water.

Here are some key points to consider when choosing a filter: