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Water filtering system

Another project I'm looking at is putting in a better water system, and I'd like some thoughts on possible ways to go. Here's what's going on.

Twice now in recent weeks we've filled the fresh water tank with water that is technically good, but didn't either look good or smell good. At this point my fresh water system (from water hydrant to tank) is a permanently mounted pressure regulator going into a permanently mounted replaceable filter. We haven't had any issues with sediment, just color or odor.

What I'm thinking about is a dual-filter system and maybe adding a water softener. What I'd like is a permanently mounted system so that all I need do is attach a hose. I don't have the old faucet, etc. there, so I'm able to move things around a bit if necessary. I'm also toying with putting in a Smart Plug system, and maybe even a permanently mounted electrical management system, so it is possible that I may be completely reworking that entire area.

So, ideas and suggestions are welcome. I'm guessing that at least one person has done all of this before. One point that will be important is that all replaceable items, such as filters, ought to be easily obtainable. We're full-timers, and tend to avoid the large cities, so running into Camping World usually isn't an option. Amazon Prime is a good choice.

Re: Water filtering system

Reply #1 –
I am starting to update our plumbing as well.  Highly recommend the write up and links found on Beamalarm as a good starting point.  Wading through the research and getting parts.
George and Steph
1997 U270 36 Build 5081 "Honu"
1180w Solar 400A lithium all Victron house system
Motorcade 17670, SKP 128300, FMCA F459019
73 VW Camper, 79 VW Camper, 2363 Sunline, and an Arctic Fox 25P

Re: Water filtering system

Reply #2 –
I put together a 0.5 to one micron filtering system using a 20" cartridge container instead of the usual 10" (more water flow).  It flows well, and filters sediment and for taste (and for most of the  bad stuff that will make you sick). Depending on quality of incoming water, filters last from 2 months to one year.  High quality water sources I replace annually, sediment sources from wells much quicker (water flow drops lets us know).

In my Bluebird, I had room in the basement water bay to permanent mount it.  With the U320 Foretravel, we use it bungied to the outside spigot.

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The sources below ship fast and so far error free.

High Flow Fixed Water Regulator:  Fairview Hi-flow brass in-line regulator: RV Water Filter Store 

From this source the filter outer housing: Refrigerator Water Filters, Air Furnace Filters, Pool Spa Filters, Humidifier...
150009 Pentek 20" Filter Housing 1each 1Z0556ER0322579714 

Same source: 151120 American Plumber W34-OR O-Ring 5 each (for replacements) 1Z0556ER0322579714

Modified carbon block filters rated at 0.5 micron: https://www.filtersfast.com/P-Pentek-FloPlus-20-Carbon-Block-Water-Filter.asp

Wrench:  SW-2 American Plumber WW34 / SW-2 F 1 each 1Z0556ER0322579714

You will also need 2 pieces from Home Depot or Lowes:  (3/4" threaded * water hose brass connection)  to install on the cartridge housing, one male, one female, plus Teflon tape.

If using outside versus permanent mount, you will also need a 3-4' fresh water hose from Camping World or elsewhere and a bungee cord to hold the system to the pedestal.

Some people do not want to filter water that enters the fresh water tank, because they do not want to remove the chlorine before it goes in the tank.  We filter all water coming in and going into the fresh tank.  We use water in the tank at least monthly (even when on shore water), then refill the tank. 

Also, for our 2003 U320, additional filter numbers from same source above:

Under sink:  EV959206 Everpure EV959206 Shurflo RV F 2 1Z0556ER0322579714

Samsung Residential Fridge: PH21300 Samsung DA2900003G Compatible 3 1Z0556ER0322579714


Dan - Full timing since 2009
2003 U320 40' Tag 2 slide

Re: Water filtering system

Reply #3 –
Lots of ways to do this.

Water Pressure in Coach

I like our 80 micron filter, nothing goes into the coach without it.  At 0.003" it traps all of the crud that gets into your tanks, valves and faucets.  We also have two other filters and a water softener.  When we are on the road, all incoming water goes through all three filters and the water softener.  We switched to a brass 50 psi regulator when we were at a park that was warning about 110-120 psi water pressure.  They were selling very nice brass pressure regulators for about $16.  We also have a bag full of 90° and 45° drinking water safe (lead free) adapters to fit just about any water connection.  Fill the tank, drain it out and put it away.  We just don't have quite enough room to have it built in.

We are dedicated tank and pump users.  We have a hot water recirculation system so we don't waste cold water waiting for hot and an automatic pump shut off as well. 

Roger
Roger Engdahl and Susan Green
2001 U320 3610 #5879 (Home2) - 2014 Jeep Cherokee or 2018 F150
Hastings, MN

Re: Water filtering system

Reply #4 –
Quote from: kb0zke –
What I'm thinking about is a dual-filter system and maybe adding a water softener.

Just FYI you will want the sediment filter between the campground spigot and the water softener in order to protect the softener head from debris.
Learn every day, but especially from the experiences of others. It's cheaper!  - John C. Bogle

2000 U320 36' non-slide / WildEBeest Rescue
2003 U320

Re: Water filtering system

Reply #5 –
I agree, catch the chunks first.
Roger Engdahl and Susan Green
2001 U320 3610 #5879 (Home2) - 2014 Jeep Cherokee or 2018 F150
Hastings, MN

Re: Water filtering system

Reply #6 –
Follow up on the filter system I posted about just above. Pic for clarity.
Dan - Full timing since 2009
2003 U320 40' Tag 2 slide