Life on the road is not easy. A lot of factors need to be considered before going on a road trip. One of these factors is access to clean drinking water. While traveling, you do not want to encounter dirty taps and water that is smelly and contains germs. Unhygienic drinking water can do more harm than just ruining your otherwise enjoyable trip.
Bacteria and other contaminants in the water can lead to an upset stomach along with a host of other problems.
To avoid the problem of not having access to potable water, you must install an RV water filter. An RV filter removes all the sediments and debris in the water and provides you with safe drinking water. Moreover, an RV filter reduces the need to buy expensive water bottles, which in turn, also reduces plastic waste.
This article has been broken down into four parts. We will first describe the best RV water filter for your vehicle, the importance of an RV filter, the different types of RV filters, and lastly, how often you should use a filter and when to replace it.
8 Best RV Water Filters
Let us begin by taking a look at some of the best RV water filters for your next camping trip.
#1. Camco 4063 EVO Premium RV Water Filter
Highlights
The Camco 4063 EVO Premium RV Water Filter is one of the best inline water filters. It comes with a 5-micron barrier to eliminate sediments, bacteria, and chlorine making water safe to drink.
Overview
The Camco 4063 EVO Premium RV Water Filter is an inline RV water filter that features a granulated activated carbon element. The activated carbon helps to get rid of any sediments and elements like aluminum, cadmium, iron, lead, mercury, and hydrogen sulfide.
The RV filter comes equipped with a filter housing, an installation wrench, an attachment hose, and Teflon tape. The sediment filter in the unit has a 20-micron rating and includes Kinetic Degradation Fluxion (KDF) granules that eliminate the growth of germs such as viruses, bacteria, fungi, and mold when the filter has not been in use for a long time. On average, the Camco RV water filter can last for three months.
Overall, the Camco 4063 EVO Premium RV Water Filter is versatile because it can be connected to a regular gardening hose or any water hose for a supply of clean drinking water.
Pros
- Easy to install
- Reduces the growth of virus, bacteria, and fungi
- Versatile, can be connected to any standard gardening or hose pipe
- Has a 5-micron filter barrier
Cons
- Water can have a chlorine-like taste after filtration
- Filter lasts up to three months only
Verdict
The Camco 4063 EVO Premium RV Water Filter is one of the best RV water filters for those who value easy installation. The filter comes with all the equipment necessary to install it along with an activated carbon element and a 5-micron barrier that helps to keep all the dirt and germs at bay. Overall, it’s a good product even for those who don’t travel regularly.
#2. Waterdrop WD-RVS-1 RV Inline Water Filter
Highlights
If you are looking for a good quality RV filter but are short on money, the Waterdrop WD-RVS-1 R Inline Water Filter is a good option. This filter uses the Kinetic Degradation Fluxion (KDF) and Advanced Granular Activated Carbon technologies to remove all the dirt and sediments so you can enjoy clean and safe drinking water.
Overview
The Waterdrop WD-RVS-1 RV Inline Water Filter is a one-of-a-kind RV water filter because it is equipped with KDF granules and Advanced Granular Activated Carbon technologies, which help to eliminate dirt, sediment, and germs giving the water a good, clean taste and a fresh smell. Moreover, the activated carbon granules help filter out particles bigger than 20 microns, along with reducing the presence of chemicals such as fluoride, chloride, and arsenic in the water.
This RV filter also comes with an anti-kink hose protector, which prevents snags and crimping. The filter is versatile since it is compatible with almost all standard water hoses.
Pros
- Useful for all kinds of outdoor applications
- Easy to install
- Anti-kink hose provides stability and compatibility
Cons
- Can only last for three months
- The hose attachment is prone to damage and breakage
- The filtration rate might be slower than other RV water filters
Verdict
The Waterdrop WD-RVS-1 RV Inline Water Filter is a good water filter for short camping trips. The filter is less prone to damage owing to the anti-kink hose, along with technologies such as KDF and an activated carbon filter that helps to prevent water from being contaminated.
The only drawback is that the filter does not last for more than three months and the filtration rate is slow. Overall, it is a good option for those who are on a budget or those who don’t use RV water filters often.
#3. Culligan RVF-10 Recreational Vehicle External Water Filter
Highlights
If you are looking for an RV filter that is easy to transport, the Culligan RVF-10 Recreational Vehicle External Water Filter is the best choice for you. This external RV filter comes equipped with activated carbon and KDF technologies helping create a bacteria-free environment and providing water that is clean and has an excellent taste.
Overview
The Culligan RVF-10 Recreational Vehicle External Water Filter is an RV water filter that is best suited for campers, trailers, boats, and caravan homes. The filter comes equipped with KDF technology that is paired with an activated carbon core to create an environment that is free from bacteria while hampering its growth.
In addition, the KDF component helps reduce the presence of chlorine, thereby eliminating the bad taste of the water.
The Culligan RVF-10 filter has a shelf life of up to three months or 250 gallons, which can vary upon its usage. The appliance filters the water outside of the RV before it reaches the plumbing or storage tank.
It is beneficial in removing all kinds of dirt, sediment, and odor from the water making it safe to drink. Moreover, the filter also has a filter sticker, which reminds you to replace the cartridge when required.
Pros
- Has reminders to replace the filter cartridge
- Affordable price
- Durable, can filter up to 2,000 gallons of water
- Bacteriostatic KDF prevents bacteria from growing on the filter
- 12-inch garden hose easily connects the filter to a water source
Cons
- Filters slowly
- Inline units have shorter life spans than drop-in cartridges
Verdict
The Culligan RVF-10 Recreational Vehicle External Water Filter is good for those who don’t want to spend too much money on an RV filter. It is easy to carry and install. It comes with dual KDF and activated carbon core technologies to clean the water. Moreover, the 12-inch garden hose is compatible with any water source. If the slow filtration rate is not an issue for you, then consider buying this water filter.
#4. ESSENTIAL Premium RV Water Filter With Cyst Removal
Highlights
Are you looking to permanently install an RV filter in your RV? Then the ESSENTIAL Premium RV Water Filter With Cyst Removal is for you. This filter is excellent for removing any sediments and is very durable.
Overview
The ESSENTIAL Premium RV Water Filter With Cyst Removal is a filter that comes with a 12-inch bracket so that you can permanently install it in your RV. This filter also comes with heavy-duty NPT fittings. It can complicate the installation of a hose but prevents leakage from pipes.
Moreover, since this filter is considered a heavy-duty sediment filter, you can be assured that the filter removes all kinds of dirt including giardia cysts and other chemicals before it reaches your tap.
Pros
- Equipped with NPT fittings that are more durable than regular hose fittings
- Has a spare 1-micron filter
- Mounting bracket firmly secures water filter under RV
- Can support a flow rate of 3-4 gallons per minute at 60 pounds per square inch
- Suitable for those who are on the road for long periods
Cons
- Complex installation process can be difficult for those without prior plumbing experience
- Fittings of the filter are not compatible with a standard garden hose
Verdict
What is the best water filter for RV? The answer is ESSENTIAL Premium RV Water Filter With Cyst Removal. Why? It is more durable than most RV filters in the market, has a mounting bracket, and is suitable for those who are on the road for a long time and do not want to keep buying a new RV filter every so often.
#5. Pentair FreshPoint GRO-350B 3-Stage Reverse Osmosis System
Highlights
If you are looking for a water filter that can pump large volumes of water, then the Pentair FreshPoint GRO-350B 3-Stage Reverse Osmosis System is for you.
This RV filter not only comes with equipment that can help you with easy installation, but it also minimizes water waste. Thus, whenever someone asks you to name the best RV water filter with a reverse osmosis system, you know the answer.
Overview
The Pentair FreshPoint GRO-350B 3-Stage Reverse Osmosis System is an RV water filter that comes equipped with GRO Membrane Technology. This technology increases the efficiency of filtering dirt, germs, and sediments from water, reducing waste in the long run.
In addition, the dual diamond flow and the three-stage filtration process significantly removes all the chlorine, bacteria, and unpleasant odor from the water.
One of the best features of this RV filter is the fact that it has an easy click-in filter that enables easy installation. Moreover, a special chemical reduction cartridge helps reduce the presence of lead in the water.
The Pentair FreshPoint GRO-350B 3-Stage Reverse Osmosis System comes with tools such as a cartridge system, storage box, a system installation kit, an air gap, and a lead-free drinking water faucet.
Pros
- GRO technology removes 96 percent of all dissolved solids in the water, it also minimizes water waste
- Compact and small-sized unit easily fits under any sink
- Click-to-lock cartridge system enables easy filter replacement
- Equipped with all the necessary tools for filter installation
Cons
- Drain connection is necessary for wastewater outlet
- Installation takes longer than a standard RV water filter
- Filter replacement costs are high
Verdict
The Pentair FreshPoint GRO-350B 3-Stage Reverse Osmosis System can be considered among the best water filters for RVs today. It is highly efficient owing to the presence of GRO membrane technology. It can easily filter out most of the dissolved solids in water. Overall, it’s a good buy for those keen on buying a reverse osmosis RV filter.
#6. Everpure ADC RV Drinking Water Filter System
Highlights
The Everpure ADC RV Drinking Water Filter System is an RV water filter system that is suitable for those who are looking for a large and durable filter. The ADC filter not only filters out chemicals and dirt but also removes algae and mold while keeping the minerality of the water intact.
Overview
The Everpure ADC RV Drinking Water Filter System is an RV filter that comes with unique proprietary technology referred to as ADC technology. This reduces the chlorine content in the water and removes algae, mold, and other dirt particles present. At the same time, the filter ensures that the essential minerals of the water are not removed.
The Everpure filter is also equipped with technologies such as KDF and a combination of the Micro-Pure and pleated filter. While the KDF media inhibits the growth of bacteria which can damage the filter, the combination of the Micro-pure and pleated filter provides a larger filtering surface area and a longer filter lifespan.
The Everpure water filter comes with tools such as a Teflon tape, 0.25-inch tubing, a QL3 filter head, and an ADC filter. The installation process of this filter is quite simple since it can be readily attached directly under the sink. Moreover, the replacement cartridges are easy to replace.
Pros
- Cartridges are easy to replace
- Easy installation process
- Equipped with the latest technologies such as KDF, ADC, and Micro-Pure and pleated filter
- Designed to comfortably fit under a sink
Cons
- Slow filtering rate
Verdict
The Everpure ADC RV Drinking Water Filter System is among the best RV water filters since it is easy to install, boasts of the best filtration technologies, and can easily fit under a sink of any size. Overall, this RV filter is a good investment.
#7. Viqua S2Q-P/12VDC Silver Series UV System Powered by Sterilight 3 GPM
Highlights
If you are searching for a water filter for RVs that is low-maintenance, requires minimal servicing, and has a long warranty period, then go for the Viqua S2Q-P/12VDC Silver Series UV System Powered by Sterilight 3 GPM.
Overview
The Viqua S2Q-P/12VDC Silver Series UV System Powered by Sterilight 3 GPM is an RV water filter that is low-maintenance owing to the fact that it does not require much servicing. The filter does not require you to disconnect the water flow to replace your UV lamp making the installation and replacement process easy.
The Viqua S2Q-P/12VDC Silver Series UV System Powered by Sterilight 3 GPM boasts of electronic ICE ballasts that consist of an open-loop current control, a quick-molded lamp connector, an audible alarm, and a power-on indicator.
Additionally, the open-end quartz sleeves and aluminum gland nuts in the filtration system allow it to maintain optimal temperatures and sealing efficiency. These technologies are also useful in filtering out 99.9 percent of bacteria, viruses, and protozoan cysts present in the water.
Pros
- Has a 7-year warranty period
- Sleek and compact size fits under any sink
- Removes 99.9 percent of germs in water
- Requires little maintenance
- Has LED light indicator that signals any malfunction
- 12-volt electrical system ensures easy RV compatibility
Cons
- If water collects in the chamber for too long, it can become very hot
- A sediment filter is needed for optimal performance
Verdict
As a low-maintenance filter, the Viqua S2Q-P/12VDC Silver Series UV System Powered by Sterilight 3 GPM is a good buy if you don’t want to spend too much time and money on servicing. The RV filter is easy to install, neutralizes almost all dirt in the water, and keeps the temperature of water intact. In addition, it can fit under any sink owing to its compact size.
#8. Clearsource Premium RV Water Filter System
Highlights
For those looking to buy an RV water filter that is not too big and can easily be installed in small, compact spaces, then you should consider the Clearsource Premium RV Water Filter System.
Overview
The Clearsource Premium RV Water Filter System is a popular product among RV owners. Users of the product like the compact size since they can fit the filtration system almost anywhere. Additionally, the filter is compatible with any hose system. It also features a heavy metal chassis which protects it from scratches and damage.
Clearsource’s dual filtration system features a 5-micron stage filter and the 0.2-micron filter. While the 5-micron stage filter eliminates dirt and sediments, the 0.2-micron filter enables the removal of bacteria like E.Coli and Legionella.
Pros
- Dual filtration system
- Slim and compact
- Quick and smooth water flow
- Does not get damaged easily
Cons
- Though the filter is small, it is heavy
- More expensive than many water filters
- RV water filter cartridge can be expensive as well
Verdict
If money is not an issue, the Clearsource Premium RV Water Filter System is the best buy if you are on the lookout for an RV filter. It can fit anywhere, has a seamless flow of water, and features quick filtration owing to its dual filtration technologies.
Why You Need an RV Water Filter
RV owners frequently ask questions like “why do I need an RV water filter?” or “how good are RV water filters?”
While traveling, access to safe drinking water is necessary. Buying large gallons of bottled water is expensive, leads to plastic waste, and requires a lot of effort on your part.
Moreover, if you decide to camp or find yourself in a remote area where basic amenities are hard to come by, getting clean water to drink can be a luxury. As a result, people tend to rely on tap water which may be contaminated and brings a host of problems with it.
Illnesses From Contaminated Water
Contracting illnesses due to harmful bacteria or protozoa can cause severe discomfort to the stomach including diarrhea. In addition, diseases such as giardia or cryptosporidium can lead to serious dehydration which can lead to other health problems.
To avoid facing these issues while traveling, it is recommended that you install an RV water filter in your vehicle. Although it can be expensive, the benefits of the filter far outweigh the costs. With an RV filter, you will have access to safe drinking water all the time, which you can also use to cook and clean. Most RV filters are easy to install, can easily fit in small spaces, and require minimal maintenance.
Hence, the best way to enjoy your trip is to install a reliable good-quality RV water filter so that you can be assured of access to potable water at all times.
Types of RV Water Filters
In general, there are five types of RV water filters:
- Interior water filters
- Exterior water filters
- UV filters
- RO filters
- Activated carbon filters
Let us understand each of these filter types in detail.
Interior vs Exterior Filter
An interior filter or an internal filter is a filter that is installed at the point where the water from outside enters the RV filter. An internal RV water filter is advantageous as one can easily install a filter that has a large capacity and thus delivers more water.
An exterior RV water filter, on the other hand, is a filtration system wherein the filter can be attached directly to the hose that brings water into your RV. This system of filtration is installed outside the RV.
UV Filter
A UV filter makes use of an ultraviolet purification system to neutralize dirt and germs present in water.
A UV water filter is best for places where the water has a large number of microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, and fungi. The filter then neutralizes and kills these organisms by exposing them to germicidal ultraviolet wavelengths.
Moreover, the UV lamps present in the filter use radiation to disrupt the genetic coding of microorganisms present in the water. This prevents them from multiplying and further contaminating the water.
Although a UV filter will eliminate potentially harmful dirt and organisms, it will not change or improve the taste of your water.
RO Filter
An RO filter uses a reverse osmosis system to purify the water in your RV water filter. In the reverse osmosis system, the water is forced to pass through a semipermeable membrane that is made up of several small pores. These pores filter out all the dissolved salts and solid particles from the water.
A sediment filter in an RO filter extracts all the residue from the water while the carbon post filter improves the taste of water after all the dirt and germs have been extracted.
An RO water filter requires a separate storage tank along with a booster pump to flush out all the wastewater.
Activated Carbon Filter
An activated carbon filter is best for those who are not only looking for potable water but also want the water to taste good.
In an activated carbon filter, chemicals such as chlorine along with dirt particles are removed through a process called adsorption. Since activated carbon filters are gravity-fed, they are also capable of removing cysts, bacteria, heavy metals, and fluoride from the water.
Activated carbon filters are slowly becoming popular as they don’t require electricity to operate, and can be filled and used multiple times.
Portable Filters
A portable RV filter is great for people who are always traveling. For such people, a heavy RV filter can be difficult to carry and install, hence, a portable filter works best.
With a portable RV filter, you can fill your water bottle from anywhere and clean it using your RV filter. You can also carry it along with you whether you are traveling with an RV or not.
About Filter Capacity and Micron Ratings
Filter capacity and micron ratings are two important aspects that one should never overlook when reviewing possible filtration systems for their RVs. These two factors significantly impact your RV’s filtration system, its upkeep, and the quality of the water you will have.
Filter Capacity
Once you have decided what type of RV filter works best for you, it is important to determine the filter capacity you need.
If you want a filter that simply removes unclean water for cooking and drinking, then you can get an under-the-sink RV filter. On the other hand, if you are looking for an RV filter that removes all the dirty water from your RV, then you will either require an inline filter or a canister-style system.
The amount of water you’ll need should also be taken into account when determining filter capacity. Regular travelers or those traveling for long distances will need a large-capacity, durable RV filter. On the other hand, infrequent travelers who intend to remain within city limits will require smaller-sized and simpler RV filters.
Micron Ratings
The micron rating of an RV filter helps you understand the size of the particles that can pass through the filter. Thus, if you see that your RV filter has a micron rating of 0.1, this means that it will filter a higher number of particles than a filter that has a micron rating of 2.
How Long Do RV Filters Last and How Often Should You Replace Them?
An important question that most travelers have is how long their RV filters will last and how often they should be replaced.
The answers to both questions depend on the usage of the RV filter. Most brands conveniently mention the durability and life expectancy of their RV filters on their packaging. Many RV filters last anywhere from 3 to 6 months.
For the sake of your health, you are encouraged to heed your filter’s service life based on manufacturer recommendations. Replace your filter every 3 to 6 months of use. A filter that has not been used for a long time can cause it to malfunction or become a host to dirt, dust, germs, and other harmful microorganisms.
Conclusion
An RV filter is suitable for people who are always on the road and may not always have access to clean drinking water. RV filters are generally easy to install, affordable, and can also be transported from one place to another. Today, many RV filters boast innovative technologies that eliminate harmful dirt, germs, and chemicals while improving the taste of the water.
Before you head out for your next road trip, don’t forget to look for, purchase, and install an RV water filter according to your needs. Filtration systems are necessary and convenient to have around. The next time you’re out in the middle of nowhere, you’ll be glad to have one along for the ride.
