RV Water Filter Cartridges

[Randel J]

I have a "minor issue" question I've been wondering about. It's regarding RV water filter cartridges. You know, the light blue cartridges that usually hang on the outside of our units when connected to water service.

The question I have is what to do with a new cartridge that was only used for a few days. They're too expensive to throw away after a short use, but I don't know the proper way to store a used cartridge to prevent mold, germs and such growing in a wet, warm environment.

I've heard that storing them in our home refrigerator is one way to keep them safe to reuse, but not sure that's the correct (and only?) way. And for how long can you keep them refrigerated? Indefinitely?

What are your thoughts, ideas and experiences regarding how to store used RV water filter cartridges?

[Grumpy]

The CAMCO filters are already treated to prevent issues while stored.

[Marine71-76]

Interesting question. We usually cap it off and place it in the water area until the next use. Before reconnecting to the unit, run water slowly through it for about 3 minutes. Been doing this for years and never had any issues. How long between campouts?

[Randel J]

It could be 3 months or so between camping trips. And out here in California, it gets hot - real hot. So storing a wet cartridge I would think could lead to funky critters growing inside.

How does CAMCO treat these cartridges to prevent these issues? I can see storing them for a couple of weeks, but months?!?

[Grumpy]

Originally Posted by Randel J

It could be 3 months or so between camping trips. And out here in California, it gets hot - real hot. So storing a wet cartridge I would think could lead to funky critters growing inside.

How does CAMCO treat these cartridges to prevent these issues? I can see storing them for a couple of weeks, but months?!?

This if from their specs:

20 micron sediment filter: Removes particles greater than 20 microns

Protects against bacteria: Premium KDF provides protection against bacteria growth while filter is stored or not in use

The low end is good for 120 days and the others say a full season.

EDIT: Just searched KDF and it has a 6 year life against bacteria

[LuckyDuck]

I “shake” the water out as much as possible, then hang mine upside down in the garage over the utility sink to let it continue to drain and dry out for a couple of days. I then put it in a sealed tote until next use. No I’ll effects yet, knock on wood.

[Randel J]

Thanx for all the responses and water filter cartridge information! I now feel better about safely storing my used water filter

[Scott]

Great thread. I've always wondered about reusing them. I've used them for the entire season (about 30 nights or so) and then tossed them. I just shook them dry and back in the storage tote in the trailer.

This reminds me that I've got to pick one up before my first trip in a couple of weeks!

[Brownie]

I shake out the excess water, then cap both ends and store it in the refer. until next use. I also run water through it for a minute or so before the next time I use it.

[mokurt]

Originally Posted by Grumpy

This if from their specs:

20 micron sediment filter: Removes particles greater than 20 microns

Protects against bacteria: Premium KDF provides protection against bacteria growth while filter is stored or not in use

The low end is good for 120 days and the others say a full season.

EDIT: Just searched KDF and it has a 6 year life against bacteria

I just read the box yesterday and it also says to replace each camping season or when the water tastes bad.

So maybe longer because of the 6 year life if not used daily?

[Tunce the traveler]

This is the system I have for my trailer and I clean & sanitize the canister before & after seasonal use.

[wiscampsin]

Originally Posted by Brownie

I shake out the excess water, then cap both ends and store it in the refer. until next use. I also run water through it for a minute or so before the next time I use it.

Same here.