In our latest video, titled “How safe is your RV water? RV Living | RV Life,” we delve into the topic of water safety for RVers. Many RVers, like ourselves, have faced the inconvenience of relying on countless water bottles during their RV adventures. To address this issue, we decided to upgrade to a Reverse Osmosis water filter system with UV light. Not only does this system provide clean and safe water, but it also enhances the taste. We want to emphasize that the filter we used is by Express Water, and by using the provided affiliate link, you can support our channel at no additional cost. We encourage you to watch the video for a detailed overview of our experience and the step-by-step process of setting up this comprehensive water filtration system for your RV.
RV Water Safety
Importance of clean water in RV living
Clean water is an essential component of a healthy and enjoyable RV lifestyle. Whether you’re using the water for drinking, cooking, or showering, it’s crucial to ensure that it is free from contaminants. Consuming contaminated water can lead to various health issues, including waterborne illnesses. Furthermore, unclean water can negatively affect the taste and odor of your beverages and food. Therefore, investing in a quality water filtration system is of utmost importance for safe and clean RV water.
Common water contaminants in RVs
RVs, especially those that frequently travel or stay in different locations, are susceptible to various water contaminants. Some common contaminants found in RV water include:
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Sediment: Sediment can enter the water supply through the spigot or storage tanks. It consists of dirt, sand, and other particles that can clog the plumbing system and affect water flow.
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Bacteria and Viruses: Water from different sources, such as campground hook-ups or natural springs, may contain harmful bacteria and viruses. These microorganisms can cause waterborne illnesses, leading to gastrointestinal issues.
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Chemicals: RV water can also contain chemicals like chlorine, fluoride, and heavy metals. These substances may affect the taste of the water and pose health risks if consumed in high concentrations.
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Odor-causing agents: Certain contaminants in RV water can cause unpleasant odors, making it challenging to enjoy a refreshing drink or take a relaxing shower.
To ensure the safety and quality of your RV water, it is crucial to use effective water filters that can remove these contaminants.
Types of RV Water Filters
Camco tubular filter
The Camco tubular filter is one of the most common filters used in RVs. It is typically connected to the spigot outside the RV and filters out sediment down to approximately 20 microns. While it provides a good initial filtration, it may not effectively remove all contaminants.
Whole house filter
A whole house filter is installed inside the RV and filters water as it enters the plumbing system. It is more effective than the Camco tubular filter and can remove smaller particles and sediments. However, it may not address other types of contaminants, such as bacteria and viruses.
Charcoal filter
Charcoal filters, also known as activated carbon filters, are designed to remove chlorine, chemicals, and unpleasant odors from the water. They can enhance the taste and odor of the water but may not effectively eliminate sediment or microorganisms.
Reverse osmosis system
A reverse osmosis (RO) system is a comprehensive water filtration system that uses a multi-stage process to remove contaminants. It can eliminate sediment, bacteria, viruses, chemicals, and odor-causing agents, providing clean and safe drinking water. RO systems typically consist of multiple filters and a membrane that removes impurities by forcing water through microscopic pores.
UV light filter
UV light filters use ultraviolet radiation to kill bacteria, viruses, and other microorganisms. These filters are often used in conjunction with other water filtration systems to provide an extra layer of protection against microbial contamination.
Benefits of Reverse Osmosis and UV Filters
Removal of harmful contaminants
Reverse osmosis and UV filters are highly effective in removing a wide range of contaminants from RV water. They can eliminate sediment, bacteria, viruses, chemicals, and odor-causing agents, ensuring that the water is safe for consumption and other uses. With these filters, you can have peace of mind knowing that your RV water is free from harmful substances.
Improved taste of water
In addition to removing contaminants, reverse osmosis and UV filters can greatly enhance the taste and odor of RV water. By eliminating chemicals and odor-causing agents, these filters ensure that the water is crisp, clean, and enjoyable to drink. You can now savor every sip without the unpleasant taste or smell.
Prevention of waterborne illnesses
One of the greatest advantages of using reverse osmosis and UV filters is the prevention of waterborne illnesses. Bacteria, viruses, and other microorganisms present in unfiltered water can cause various gastrointestinal issues. By effectively eliminating these harmful pathogens, these filters significantly reduce the risk of falling ill due to contaminated water.
Installing a Reverse Osmosis System
Proper installation of a reverse osmosis system is essential to ensure its effectiveness and longevity. Here are the steps involved in installing a reverse osmosis system in your RV:
1. Removing old water filter
If your RV already has a water filter system installed, you need to disconnect and remove it to make space for the reverse osmosis system. Carefully disconnect the hoses and remove any fittings or attachments connected to the old filter.
2. Rerouting hose lines
To accommodate the new reverse osmosis system, you may need to reroute the hose lines connected to the old filter. This may involve drilling new holes in the wall or cabinetry of your RV to properly route the hoses.
3. Drilling new holes
If necessary, drill new holes in the designated area where you plan to install the reverse osmosis system. Be cautious and choose an appropriate location to avoid damaging any existing structures or components of your RV.
4. Mounting the filters and tank
Using the provided mounting brackets or hardware, securely mount the reverse osmosis filters and the pressure tank in the designated area. Ensure that they are properly aligned and tightly fastened to prevent any leaks or damage.
5. Connecting the power pack
If your reverse osmosis system includes a UV light filter, connect the power pack to a suitable power source. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to ensure proper electrical connections and safety.
Proper Maintenance and Monitoring
Maintaining and monitoring your RV water filtration system is crucial to ensure its efficiency and longevity. Here are some essential steps for proper maintenance:
Replacing filters regularly
Regularly check the condition of the filters and replace them as recommended by the manufacturer. Over time, filters can become clogged or lose their effectiveness, affecting the quality of the filtered water. Follow the specific instructions for your reverse osmosis system to determine the appropriate filter replacement schedule.
Cleaning and sanitizing the system
Periodically clean and sanitize the reverse osmosis system to remove any buildup or contaminants that may accumulate over time. Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for cleaning procedures and use suitable sanitization agents to ensure the system remains in optimal condition.
Monitoring water quality
Monitor the quality of your RV water regularly to ensure that the filtration system is functioning correctly. Consider using water testing kits to check for any potential contaminants and make adjustments or seek professional assistance if necessary.
Conclusion
Investing in a quality water filter system is crucial for safe and clean RV water. The use of reverse osmosis and UV filters can effectively remove harmful contaminants, improve the taste of water, and prevent waterborne illnesses. Installing these filters requires careful considerations, such as rerouting hose lines and mounting the system properly. Regular maintenance and monitoring of the filter system are necessary to ensure optimal performance. By taking proactive measures to ensure the maintenance and monitoring of the filter system, you can enjoy clean, safe, and great-tasting water during your RV travels.
We were tired of constantly relying on water bottles during our RVing adventures. That’s why we decided to make an upgrade to our RV water system. We opted for a Reverse Osmosis water filter system with UV light, ensuring that our water is not only clean and safe but also tastes amazing!
For this purpose, we chose the filter by express water, which has been working splendidly for us.
Here’s the link to check it out on Amazon (Please note that this is an affiliate link, and if you make a purchase using it, we will receive a small commission. Rest assured, there’s no extra cost for you, and it greatly supports our channel.)