10 Best RV Water Filter Systems for 2024: The Ultimate List

When you embark on a trip with an RV, certain changes are bound to happen. One of which is the quality, purity, and taste of the local water supply. You may be fortunate enough to find a municipal water supply at some RV parks and campgrounds, but in most cases, you’ll have to make do with any available nearest water source. That’s why you need an RV water filter system.

This system helps eliminate or reduce unpleasant tastes and odors in water. However, some RV water filters are designed to kill viruses and bacteria before they reach your drinking glass. These water filters are absolutely worth it. You get value for your money.

The best RV water filter systems are made of high-quality materials and contain microns. Besides your budget, when choosing your RV, you should consider the locations you’ll visit and the water experience in those areas. Below are some of our picks for the best RV water filter systems and why we chose them.

Our Top Picks for the Best RV Water Filter Systems

• Best for Basic Use: Camco TastePure
• Best Cost-No-Object RV Water Filter: Clearsource Ultra RV Water Filter System
• Best Under-Sink RV Water Filter: APEC Water Filter Systems ROES-50
• Best Budget-friendly Option: AQUA CREST RV Inline Water Filter
• Best Durable RV Water Filter: Beech Lane External RV Dual Water Filter System
• Best Exterior RV Water Filter System: Culligan RVF-10 RV External Water
• Best Overall RV Water Filter: Camco Evo RV Water Filter
• Best Inline Filter: Waterdrop RV Water Filter
• Best 3-Stage RV Water Filtration System: GLACIER FRESH RV Water Filter
• Best Ideal RV Water Filter: RVGUARD Inline RV Water Filter

Best RV Water Filter Systems of 2024

1. Best for Basic Use: Camco TastePure RV Water Filter and Hose Protector

Why We Chose It:

The Camco TastePure RV water filter includes a 20-micron internal sediment filter designed to eliminate bad taste and odor and protect against bacteria. Its garden-hose-compatible design makes it a user-friendly option for many RV enthusiasts.

It is great at segregating heavy metals, hydrogen sulfide, cadmium, aluminum, lead, mercury, iron, turbidity, and bad taste. The Camco TastePure hose protector is flexible and minimizes the strain on the hose to regulate water flow. It has two filters: GAC and KDF.

In addition, this RV water filter is compatible with all kinds of water or standard garden hoses. It can be used as an inline for your RV or motorhome, at campsites, and for gardening to clean your RV. The inline design and its wide body aid in the easy flow rate of water. The life span’s filter is a minimum of 3 months.

Key Features:

• 20-micron sediment removal
• 3-months filter life
• KDF and GAC filters
• Water and garden hoses
• Hose protector

Pros:

• Easy to install
• Flexible hose
• Low cost

Cons:

• You may need to run the water for a minute or more before drinking
• Some leak reports
• Filtering doesn’t eliminate many contaminants

2. Best Cost-No-Object RV Water Filter: Clearsource Ultra RV Water Filter System

Why We Chose It:

The Clearsource Ultra RV Water Filter System is renowned for its advanced three-stage filtration process. It includes a sediment filter, a carbon block filter, and a 0.2-micron filter that significantly enhances the water’s purity level. Its stand is heavily built with powder-coated metal for long-lasting durability.

When paired with the first-stage coconut shell carbon block filter, the Clearsource Ultra helps reduce or remove sediments, volatile organic compounds, chlorine, chloramines, and other contaminants, which improves smell and taste. This RV water filter uses stainless steel fittings for durable plumbing and oversized canisters for maximum water flow.

Unlike the filters in other RV water filter systems, the 0.2-micron filter in Clearsource Ultra carries an “absolute” rating. That means every pore is the rated size or better. With this enhanced protection, the Clearsource Ultra reduces or removes cysts like giardia and bacteria like E. coli and Legionella.

Key Features:

• 0.2-micron protection
• 0.5-micron capability
• Clear source premier system
• First-stage coconut shell carbon block filter
• Bullet-proof construction

Pros:

• Durable stainless steel fittings
• Rugged construction
• The filtration process offers protection against viruses and bacteria

Cons:

• Heavy
• Expensive
• Leakage reports from some users

3. Best Under-Sink RV Water Filter: APEC Water Filter Systems ROES-50

Why We Choose It:

The APEC Water Systems ROES-50 is a high-performance, in-built filtration system with a competitive price. Water goes through the sediment filter, two premium-quality carbon blocks, a high-rejection reverse osmosis membrane, and a final refining coconut carbon filter.

What we love most about this RV filter system is its ability to eliminate up to 99% of impurities. This filter system has a lead-free brushed nickel faucet and a four-gallon pre-pressurized water storage tank.

Key Features:

• High-rejection reverse osmosis membrane
• Carbon blocks
• Coconut carbon filter
• Nicole faucet
• Water storage tank

Pros:

• Two-year warranty
• Five-stage filtration process
• Highly durable

Cons:

• The water tank may store less depending on the pressurization level
• You may be allergic to the coconut filter
• Water tank leakages

4. Best Budget-friendly Option: AQUA CREST RV Inline Water Filter

Why We Choose It:

The Aqua Crest RV Inline Water Filter offers a multi-stage filtration mechanism that efficiently traps particles down to 20 microns. It has an active carbon filter to improve taste and neutralize metals.

Overall, it can effectively reduce chlorine by 97.6%. Aqua Crest features a 4-layer filtration system with activated carbon and KDF, which can eliminate bad odor, bad taste, suspended solids, sediments, rust, and chlorine.

The filters can work perfectly for 3 months. This filter adapts easily to several hoses, and its installation process takes just 5 minutes. The Aqua Crest RV water filter system undergoes 100,000 pulse tests, 400 PSI pressure tests, and 10X water pressure tests.

Key Features:

• Anti-kink hose
• Two layers of filtration (granular-activated carbon and degradation fluxion)
• Advanced KDF and GAC
• Testing options
• Flexible hose protector

Pros:

• Durable construction
• Easy installation
• Faster water flow

Cons:

• It’s easy to thread the connector incorrectly
• Some people are allergic to the activated carbon made from natural coconut shells
• The water pressure weakens over time

5. Best Durable RV Water Filter: Beech Lane External RV Dual Water Filter System

Why We Chose It:

This RV dual water filter system from Beech Lane offers a powerful filtration process, containing a 0.5-micron filter and a 5-micron sediment filter. Ideal for outdoor settings, this system provides improved water taste and odor. It also features a flexible hose protector for easier connection.

Because it mounts on the outside of your RV, the Beech Lane External RV Filter is convenient to access and use when you’re camping in your RV. This RV water filter system is on our list because of its heavy-duty construction, including thick-walled treatment canisters that are capable of standing against any outdoor conditions you may encounter.

In addition, it doesn’t affect the water pressure or flow rate coming into your RV. This is essential when choosing the best RV water filter for your needs.

Key Features:

• Lead-free brass fixtures
• Thick-walled water canisters
• Carbon block filter
• 5-micron sediment
• Lifetime manufacturer warranty

Pros:

• Good for long-term RV use
• Great customer support
• High performance compared to more expensive water filters

Cons:

• It may leave a bad taste in the water
• It may reduce water pressure
• The hose fitting doesn’t have a swivel mount

6. Best Exterior RV Water Filter System: Culligan RVF-10 RV External Water Filter

Why We Choose It:

Culligan RVF-10 features a Bacteriostatic filter media that reduces the growth of bacteria within the filter. It also includes a granular activated carbon filter to reduce the taste and smell of chlorine.

Its design makes it ideal for exterior water filtration for your RV, allowing you to enjoy better-tasting water and a cleaner storage tank. The hose fitting kit allows you to install the pre-tank filter easily.

Key Features:

• D-15 Level 1 filter cartridge
• Hose connection kit
• Granular activated carbon filter 
• Durable plastic housing
• One-foot connector hose

Pros:

• No tools are required for installation
• Removes sediments, bad odor, and taste
• Easy installation and use

Cons:

• The plastic fittings tend to break 
• Prone to leaking
• Water can fill the gap between the top cap and the housing.

7. Best Overall RV Water Filter: Camco Evo RV Water Filter

Why We Choose It:

The Camco EVO is the best inline RV water filter that bridges the gap between the less expensive inlines and the more upscale filters. It offers easy installation, sturdy construction, and a high degree of filtration, making its moderate price a great value.

Besides, settling for a low-cost water filter would be best if you don’t use your RV often. With a 5-micron fiber barrier in the filter cartridge, the Camco Evo keeps sediments and bacteria out of the water for use during your outdoor adventures.

After the initial 5-micron filtration, your water will pass through both granulated carbon filtering and kinetic degradation fluxions to further cleanse it.

Key Features:

• Premium-spun polypropylene filter cartridge
• Hose extension
• Filter housing
• Streamlined inline design
• KDF

Pros:

• Sturdy construction
• High filtration degree
• Easy installation

Cons:

• Mounting hardware sold separately
• Heavier than other inline filters
• Some users report leaks

8. Best Inline Filter: Waterdrop RV Water Filter

Why We Choose It:

NSF 42 has accredited this inline RV water filter system. The Waterdrop RV water filter has a life span of 3 months and provides you with pure, safe, and clean drinking water.

They use KDF and GAC technology to power an efficient multi-stage filtering system. The technology helps reduce fluoride, chlorine, bad odor, and bad taste, restricts sediments larger than 20 microns, and delivers safer drinking water.

It features a flexible hose protector with an anti-kink, ensuring a smooth water flow rate. The Waterdrop RV Water Filter is compatible with 75% general water hoses. They can also be used for multiple purposes, like meeting your drinking needs, washing, and bathing requirements.

Key Features:

• Multi-stage filtering system
• GAC and KDF technology
• Hose protector
• Standard-caliber flexible hose
• Authoritative NSF Certification

Pros:

• Zero leakage and 3-month filter life
• Multi-layer filtration
• Easy installation

Cons:

• Not suitable for treating hard water
• Poor water flow rate
• Hose size may adversely affect water pressure

9. Best 4-Stage RV Water Filtration System: GLACIER FRESH RV Water Filter

Why We Choose It:

Glacier Fresh RV water filter has 20 microns and is certified as lead and BPA-free. It has a multiple-stage filtration technology that eliminates pollutants and provides cleaner and safer drinking water. 

The first stage is the pre-sediment filtration layer, which removes the sand-like solid particles. The second is the KDF filtration stage, which removes chlorine, turbidity, rust, sediments, and corrosion.

The third stage is the advanced filtration layer, which removes fluoride and lead. While the GAC filtration layer gets rid of bad taste and odor. Also, the anti-kink hose protector provides for uninterrupted water flow and zero breakage.

Key Features:

• Anti-kink hose protector
• Hose filter
• GAC and KDF technology
• Lightweight design
• Durable construction

Pros:

• Uninterrupted water flow
• 4-stage filtration process
• BPA- and lead-free

Cons:

• Poor customer service
• Limited lifespan
• Requires a lot of energy to maintain

10. Best Ideal RV Water Filter: RVGUARD Inline RV Water Filter

Why We Choose It:

The RVGUARD inline water filter utilizes high-grade granular activated carbon and KDF technology. It removes chemicals, odors, and particulates to improve the water’s taste and safety. It is also designed to be easily compatible with all standard hoses.

This filter has material safety certification from NSF 42. The upgraded filtration system has a metal filter in the first stage, KDF55 in the second stage, activated carbon in the third stage, and a sponge in the final stage. 

With its capacity to contain 15,000 gallons of water, the filter can last up to 3 months. It operates in temperatures ranging from 34F to 100F. It can be used for gardening, car washing, yachts, and RVs.

Key Features:

• KDF and GAC technology
• 60 PSI working pressure
• 20-micron-diameter filter
• Long lifespan of up to 15000 gallons or 3 months
• Service flow of 0.5 gpm

Pros:

• Wide application for RV, planting  gardening, and farming
• Upgraded filtration system
• NSF 42 certification for material safety

Cons:

• Low flow rate
• It needs to be replaced every three months, which may not be cost-effective for long-term use
• Has a service flow of only 0.5 GPM, which may not be ideal for high-volume water usage

Review and Comparison of Top 10 RV Water Filter Systems

The purpose of an RV water filter is to remove sediments like sand and dirt, heavy metals, and other microscopic, unwanted contaminants like viruses and bacteria from your RV’s water supply.

From our list, our top pick is the Camco TastePURE RV Water Filter. It comes standard with KDF and GAC filters that help eliminate harmful substances. It is also compatible with all kinds of hoses and is a versatile product.

Research Methodology

Sometimes, you may be lucky enough to park your RV in an area with a municipal water supply. But, for most people, the main aim of RVing is to avoid places like that. 

Finding a good source of clean and fresh water in the space varies greatly, and you’ll always need to put the water in your tank. Cleaning the tank isn’t as easy as cleaning a Nalgene bottle. Thus, water filter systems are must-haves for serious RVers. 

To compile this list, we reviewed the top products on the market, compared the prices, filtration effectiveness, specs, customer service, compatibility, and features, and created a short list of the top RV water filter systems. Then, we used product descriptions, reviews, ratings, and hands-on experience to find the best RV water filter for each category.

Understanding RV Water Filter Systems

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Even though you don’t plan to cook, bathe, or drink with the water in your RV, it’s still necessary to get an inline water filter to protect your appliances, like your water pump, and keep your faucets free from sediments that cause clogging.

What is an RV water filter system?

An RV water filter system is a filter that removes impurities from water sources so you can have pure and clean drinking water in your RV. Not all campground water sources are alike. Some are well water, while others are city water. Some sediments and impurities can clog your system; this is where an RV water filter comes in.

RV water filtration removes all the unwanted elements, including chlorine and fluoride. It is the best way to ensure the water in your RV is safe for cooking and drinking. Even if you’re not planning on drinking or cooking with your onboard water, it’s still important to prevent buildup in your RV plumbing by getting an RV water filter system.

Types of RV water filter systems

The best RV water filtration systems are of different types. Each type is created to meet certain purposes.

1. Carbon RV Water Filters:

RV carbon filters are built to remove chloramines and chlorine from your RV water. They also help to reduce the issues that herbicides, pesticides, and other substances cause. So, if you’re experiencing odor and taste problems in your RV water, this water filter system is the solution.

2. Sediment RV Water Filters:

These filters are useful if your RV water is muddy, cloudy, or has signs of dirt in it. If the water you’re putting in your RV isn’t from a standard municipal source, you’ll need a sediment filter. Some sediment filters also remove contaminated substances like bad odor, taste, and chlorine from the water.

3. Reverse Osmosis Water Filters:

These filters provide the safest and cleanest water, using dense membranes for water purification. However, they waste so much water because the system only allows clean water and discards impure water.

4. Ultraviolet Light Filters:

These filters use UV wavelengths to eliminate bacteria from RV water, especially when water has been kept for a long time in the RV water storage tanks. This RV UV purification system exposes the water to germicidal UV wavelengths, making it safer to drink. You can use this filter purification system with another water filter to improve your overall RV water quality.

5. In-line RV Water Filters:

These filters are fitted outside the RV where the campground water hookup is attached to the hose, allowing the water inside the RV. The upsides of this filter system are simple installation, enhanced portability, and easy replacement. The only con is that they must be changed often as the flow rate is reduced at the end of their life span.

6. Canister RV Water Filters:

In this filter system, water passes through several filters. The canister water filters allow users to customize the filtering options. These filters are directly installed internally, so you don’t need to connect them each time you need to use them.

7. Countertop RV Water Filters:

These are portable RV filters installed at the source. They’re economical, simple, and can filter different types of campground water. Also, it requires space inside the RV and filters water at a particular junction, not all the water entering the RV.

8. Water Softeners:

Water softeners aren’t the same as water filtration. They’re used to soften hard water, especially if it leaves spots on your dishes and glasses after washing. They also help remove bacteria and particles from your water.

What is the most effective type of water filter?

The Camco TastePure RV Water Filter is the most effective type of water filter. It is one of the best inline water filters that can make water taste fresh as though it’s directly coming from a stream and can remove inorganic contaminants.

In addition, the water filter also effectively reduces sediments, chemicals, chlorine taste, and odor. Camco filters are considered one of the quality RV water filter cartridges with a good life span.

A large-capacity Camco in-line water filter like the Camco Evo Premium Water Filter has an average life of one camping season. You don’t have to worry about how to find and buy a Camco RV water filter. You can find any type online at a very good price.

Are RV water filters worth it?

RV water filters are worth every penny. They are the kings of safe, pure, and clean RV water for cleaning, cooking, bathing, and drinking. With the right water filtration system, you can save, reduce the risk of illness, enjoy better-tasting water, and have peace of mind while RVing.

How to Choose the Best RV Water Filter Systems

Campground water is usually not of the best quality. That’s why you need an RV water filter system to restrict the entry of debris and eliminate already-existing sediments.

1. Type

The different types of RV filters have their pros and cons. So, when choosing an RV water filter, you need to choose the one with your ideal filtering choice. For example, carbon filters are best at removing chlorine and other chemicals, while reverse osmosis filters are more expensive and require expert installation.

2. Cost

Although it may be tempting to choose the cheapest RV water filter, bear in mind that a more expensive filter offers better filtration and durability. Hence, you’ll be saving money in the long run. Make sure to consider your budget and pick a filter system that offers the best value for your money.

3. Features

Some RV water filter systems can be reused by replacing the cartridge, while others can only be used once. The cartridge prevents the particles from entering the water. 

4. Microns

The RV water filter micron measurement informs you of the smallest particle size that’ll be filtered and prevented from entering your RV water. The lower micron count will ensure that even the smallest particles are pushed out.

5. Flow Rate

Although RV water filter systems with a lower micron count are tempting options, they inversely affect the water flow rate. As the filter creates more resistance to filter out the particles, it also minimizes the water flow to the RV water system. The flow rate is measured in gallons per minute, specifying the amount of water filtered per minute.

6. Durability

Before choosing an RV water filter system, make sure to confirm how often the filters need to be changed. Also, check how often the filter needs servicing.

7. Compatibility

Ensure that your RV filtration system is compatible with your RV’s plumbing system. Some RV water filters are designed to be installed in line with your RV’s water supply, while others are designed to be installed at the faucet. Choosing the system that’s compatible with your RV’s plumbing system ensures optimal performance and proper installation.

Other RV Water Filter System alternatives

Besides our top picks for the best RV water filter systems, other alternatives are as good. Check out the list below.

1. Brita Water Filter

Brita Water Filter uses carbon and a type of iron-exchanging resin to filter out copper, mercury, cadmium, chlorine, lead, zinc, and other heavy metals. They come in different sizes. Also, the Brita water dispenser will be a great option if you have a large RV refrigerator.

2. Clear20 RV and Marine Inline Water Filter

This filter system is a great carbon block filter, giving cleaner and better-tasting water. It is one of the best inline RV water filters on the market. Clear20 easily hooks to the water hose and is easy to use. The filter doesn’t restrict water flow and can last between 3 and 6 months.

3. Frizzlife Under Sink Water Filter System SK99-NEW

Frizzlife is a highly rated RV under-sink water filter. It removes chemicals and heavy metals and provides an excellent taste for your water system. It filters down to 0.5 microns and has a capacity of up to 10,000 gallons. The filter system is easy to install and can work for up to 2 gallons per minute.

Tips for Maintaining Your RV Water Filter Systems

Depending on their lifespan, RV water filtration systems must be regularly replaced to ensure proper operation. Below are some tips on RV water filter system maintenance.

Maintenance

Maintaining an RV water filter system is essential for preserving the quality of the water inside your RV. This usually involves regular inspection, cleaning, and timely replacement of the filter cartridges.

Filter Cartridge Replacement:

Depending on the type of water filter system installed in your RV, the filter cartridge must be replaced regularly. Typically every 3–6 months. Always consult the manufacturer’s guidelines for your specific system.

System Check-ups:

Always check for leaks after you have installed or replaced your water filter. This includes checking the system after a camping trip since road vibrations can loosen connections. If the pressure seems low, the filter may be clogged and needs cleaning or replacement.

Cleaning

Over time, the outer bodies of water filter systems can accumulate dirt, algae, or mold. Regular cleaning with a mild detergent will prolong the lifespan of the equipment.

Winterizing for cold seasons:

When the filters are not in use, especially during freezing weather, it’s critical to drain and disconnect the system to prevent freezing and potential damage.

Adopting preventative measures and adhering to the best practices will ensure your selected RV water filter system runs optimally and consistently during your camping trip.

Wrapping up the Best RV Water Filter Systems

RV water filtration systems seem complicated, but you’ll make the perfect choice once you’re familiar with the features to look out for when buying one. However, with this guide, picking the best RV water filter systems won’t be a hassle.

Overall, our top 10 picks are the best on the market. Our first choice is the Camco TastePure RV Water Filter, which features GAC and KDF filters that eliminate harmful substances.

The second choice from our list, the Clearsource Ultra, includes a sediment filter, a carbon block filter, and a 0.2-micron filter that significantly enhances the water’s purity level. Its stand is heavily built with powder-coated metal for long-lasting durability. 

Our third best choice is the Camco Evo, which is the best overall RV water filter. It offers easy installation, a high degree of filtration, and sturdy construction, making its moderate price a great value. Which of these filters will you be settling for? Let us know in the comments!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the best water filter system for an RV?

Camco TastePure is the best RV water filter. It has a 20-micron sediment removal hose and a flexible hose. Also, its price is low, and its installation process is quite easy.

What is the best RV water filter to remove sulfur smell?

The reverse osmosis filter is the best RV water filter to remove sulfur smells. However, it doesn’t work alone. It has to be paid for with a granulated activated carbon filter to be more effective.

Does an RV water filter remove chlorine?

RV water filters are capable of removing chlorine from the water. Even though the chlorine would have disinfected the water already with its properties, an RV water filter removes the taste of chlorine from the water.

How long is an RV water filter good for?

Most RV water filters are good for as long as 3 to 6 months. However, the filter duration varies depending on the manufacturer.

Do RV water filters reduce water pressure?

RV water filters can reduce water pressure since they interrupt the water’s path to the RV fixtures and faucets. If your RV filter system reduces water pressure, you’ll need a booster pump to supply adequate pressure. RV water filters cause low water pressure when they’re clogged. So, the best thing to do is replace it.

Can you drink filtered RV water?

Yes, you can drink filtered RV water. It is as safe and clean as the traditional water source. If you have clean drinking water at home and fill your tanks, your water is safe if the tanks are clean and the water hasn’t been stagnant for a long time. So, if you use water from the campground, your water is safe if it’s from a city water supply.