Water filter best in test

What is the best water filter is determined by the need!

In order to understand which filter is the best, or if perhaps water purification tablets are sufficient, one must first understand the potential harmful substances in the water that we want to drink. You also have to learn the basics of how to collect water in the smartest way, but also think about when you need to clean water. Do you want a filter as a backup on the trip, or do you want it in case of an emergency? It helps you understand which product suits you best.

At the end of the guide there are tips on water filters and purification that suit you as:

• Travel, alone or in a group and carry your water filter with you
• Traveling by car, boat or want a permanent campsite
• Filter and purification that fits in the emergency box as a home emergency

Are we drinking clean water?

The basis of clean water is that we take our drinking water from a running source. Then we reduce the risks of pollution and at the same time the risk of getting cloudy water that risks clogging our water filter. Most filters can be cleaned if they become clogged, but the lifetime of the filter is always longer the cleaner the water is to begin with.

Even when we take our water from a running source, the risk of contamination can vary greatly. Above the treeline, the water is at its cleanest, here the water comes directly from the source and the temperature is usually lower, which contributes to less bacteria and pollution. In the Swedish mountains, we usually drink the water directly from streams without thinking about purification. When the water gets further below the tree line in agricultural landscapes, the temperature increases and the use of artificial fertilizers is common, which contributes to the growth of microorganisms in the water. Even further down towards sea level, as a rule, the built-up area increases and, above all, in densely built-up areas, the risks increase more. There are large regional variations here, and in many developing countries there are also viruses in the water that can easily be filtered out with modern filters.

If we have to collect water from a stagnant source, we must remember not to take the warm surface water, which often contains bacteria and microorganisms, the same applies to water from the shore. Instead, try to get water further out and a bit down. Here the water is colder and thus cleaner.

Different types of water pollution

It may not look so dangerous, but it can cause a lot of trouble

Protozoa in water

(Amoebas, Giardia and Cryptosporidium etc.) are single-celled animal organisms and end up in the water via human and animal faeces just like bacteria. One of the smallest organisms in this group is malaria, which is, however, harmless in drinking water. These really tiny protozoa are 1-2 microns in size. Giardia and Cryptosporidium are particularly problematic for Swedish water. Many waterworks are poorly adapted to remove microorganisms and climate change also increases the risk of these spreading in the drinking water. The size of these microorganisms is 3-6 microns, which means that all our filters catch them. Outbreaks of Gardia in drinking water happen a little from time to time and will become more common due to climate change where large amounts of rainwater force treatment plants to release untreated water

Unfortunately, bacteria are not uncommon in Swedish water

Bacteria in water

(E.coli, Salmonella and Cholera etc.) are single-celled organisms that multiply quickly in warm environments, especially in water. In Sweden, especially e-coli or EHEC is worth mentioning. In recent years, between 300-600 people have been infected in Sweden, and the number of cases is increasing. Food is often a carrier of infection, but an important source is also cattle that carry the infection without getting sick themselves. If there is a problem with the drain and manure is mixed with drinking water, there is a risk of infection spreading. There are also risks with bathing areas near agriculture with animal husbandry. Here it is worth thinking about if you collect drinking water near grazing animals. The size of the E.ccoli bacteria is 1-2 microns and is captured by most water filters.

Beautiful to look at but definitely not something you want in your body!

Viruses in water

(Hepatitis A, Rotavirus and Polio etc.) are small parasites. They can only reproduce in living cells because they do not own their own metabolism. Viruses that can occur in Sweden are Calicivirus and Norovirus, which cause winter sickness. Many viruses have a size of about 0.3 microns, although significantly larger ones also occur. This means that not all filters catch all viruses. Many filters have a filter size of 0.1 micron, which removes virtually all viruses.

Different types of water filters and water purification

Water filter

Water filters effectively remove harmful substances. Common water filters are made of ceramics and fiberglass, which capture all small particles and clean the water to 99.9999% from protozoa and bacteria.

To remove the most common bacteria from water, a microfilter with a pore size no larger than 0.3 microns is required. Possible filters include ceramic, fiberglass, plastic or activated carbon.

If the filter has a size of 0.1 micron, it is also effective against viruses.

UV purification

Neither protozoa, bacteria nor viruses survive a UV treatment. The treatment is very simple, place the UV lamp in the water and stir. After a few seconds, the water is safe to drink. However, a UV lamp does not filter out sediment and other things from the water, so cloudy water should be pre-treated.

Water purification tablets

But chlorine and silver ions effectively kill protozoa, bacteria and viruses. The treatment is simple by applying a tablet that dissolves in a quantity of water. Here, too, the water should be filtered as the chemical process does not remove dirt, sediment and dead bacteria from the water. Important to think about here is to dose the right number of tablets for the amount of water to be purified. To get the intended effect, you must wait up to 120 minutes before drinking the water. It is the time required to e.g. Gardia must be rendered harmless. Read the instructions carefully and please combine with a water filter.

Water filters for different types of needs

Water filter for those who travel, alone or in a group

For those who think it is most important to have a filter that can be included in the package without taking up too much space or weighing too much. As a rule, you do not need to store water, but use sources that you pass. These filters fit perfectly on the trip or why not in a Bug out bag for preparedness.

Sagan Life RapidFlo

Sagan Life RapidFlo is an impressive water filter solution for those who need purified water quickly and easily. With its high flow rate, RapidFlo provides a smooth user experience, making it perfect for both outdoor life and emergency situations. Its extensive filtration eliminates bacteria, protozoa and viruses, ensuring clean and safe drinking water. Another major advantage is that the filter can be stored for a long time without losing its effectiveness, making it an excellent choice for long-term standby.

-Flow: 2 L/min
- Lifespan: 1000 L
-Replaceable filter: Yes
-Protects against: protozoa, bacteria, heavy metals, chemicals and viruses

Water filter Sawyer Mini SP128

This is a small filter that is made to be used together with a PET bottle and takes up very little space. The filter fits in the palm of your hand and weighs only 56 g. You drink directly through the filter and it can also be connected to the included water container or used with a straw that is also included, to drink directly from the source.

-Flow: 1.2 - 1.5 L/min
-Lifespan: 378,000 L, practically for life
-Protects against: protozoa, bacteria

Grayl Geopress

Grayl Geopress is a fast and efficient filter. Grayl Geopress is a fast and efficient filter. Here you get a comprehensive water filter that removes all harmful particles from the water while it has a good flow capacity. The fast flow is created through the ingenious design where you use your own body weight to push the filter down into the bottle. The fact that the water bottle and filter are integrated is also a big plus for ease of use.

-Flow: 50 L/min
- Lifespan: 250L
-Replaceable filter: Yes
-Protects against: protozoa, bacteria, heavy metals, chemicals and viruses

Membrane Solutions Straw

The Membrane Solutions Straw is a flexible and portable water filter that is perfect for people on the go. Its compact size makes it easy to carry, and it doesn't require a complicated set-up – just drink straight from the water source. The filter has an efficient membrane technology that removes bacteria, protozoa and other impurities, guaranteeing clean and safe drinking water. It is an excellent choice for hiking, camping and emergency situations where access to clean water may be limited.

-Lifespan: 5000 L
-Flow: 5 dl/min
-Protects against: protozoa, bacteria and reduces heavy metals, chemicals and bad taste

Water filter for those who travel by car, boat or have a permanent campsite

For those who value simplicity and need to be able to filter a lot of water and need to be able to store water at the campsite to avoid having to go and collect it more often. Here, practicality is more important than weight and space. These filters are also perfect as emergency preparedness when you are not traveling.

Sagan Life Aquabrik Filter System

The Sagan Life Aquabrick Filter System is an ideal solution for those who need to filter large amounts of water, both for families and groups. With a capacity to purify large amounts of water quickly and efficiently, the Aquabrick ensures that you always have access to clean drinking water, no matter where you are. The system removes bacteria, protozoa, viruses and other contaminants and can be stored for a long time without losing its effectiveness. The rugged construction and portability make it perfect for long-term storage, emergencies and outdoor living.

-Flow: 2 L/min
-Lifespan of the replaceable filter: 2700 L
-Protects against: protozoa, bacteria, heavy metals, chemicals and viruses

Lifesaver - Jerrycan 20000

A substantial jeep can in durable plastic. It holds 18.5 liters of water which can be taken on the trip or just kept in the camp. Pump a few times or let gravity do the work. Here, the flow is so high that Lifesaver also has a shower hose as an accessory. Jerrycan also removes viruses and is the perfect travel companion in the car or boat.

-Flow: 3 L/min
- Lifespan of the replaceable filter: 20,000 L or 3 years.
-Replaceable filter: Yes
-Protects against: protozoa, bacteria, heavy metals, chemicals and viruses

Membrane Solutions Gravity bag II 6L

Membrane Solutions Filter System II 6L is a reliable and efficient water filter system that is excellent for handling larger water needs. With a capacity of 6 litres, it is perfect for groups or families who need clean water for camping, outdoor activities or emergencies. The system is easy to use and cleans the water from bacteria, protozoa and other harmful substances. The large water capacity combined with its portability makes this system both practical and useful, especially in situations where access to safe drinking water is essential.

-Flow: 0.5 L/min
- Lifespan of the replaceable filter: 5,000 L or 3 years.
-Replaceable filter: Yes
-Protects against: protozoa, bacteria, heavy metals, chemicals and viruses

Water filter and purification that fits in the emergency kitor as home preparedness

For those who want security at home and, if necessary, must be able to purify water for the whole family for daily use. Here we assume that there is water that is partially purified, often directly in the tap. But in the event of a social disturbance, the water at home may become contaminated by bacteria and may need to be purified.

Sagan Life Water Jug System

The Sagan Life Water Jug System is a versatile and reliable solution for purifying water in larger quantities. It is ideal for household use, camping and disaster preparedness, where it can quickly filter water from various sources and remove bacteria, viruses and protozoa for safe drinking water. The system is designed for long-term storage without losing filtration efficiency, and its robust design makes it easy to use and transport. This filter is an excellent choice for those looking for a durable and efficient water solution for families or small groups.

-Flow: 2 L/min
- Lifespan of the replaceable filter: 1000L
-Replaceable filter: Yes
-Protects against: protozoa, bacteria, heavy metals, chemicals and viruses

Aquatabs water purification tablets

This is a chlorine-based water purification tablet that kills harmful bacteria and protects against diseases caused by waterborne infections. Perfect for home preparedness if, for example, E.coli bacteria comes out in the tap water. However, we recommend tablets in combination with a water filter because it is guaranteed to remove harmful substances, including dead bacteria and viruses.

Sawyer Tap Filter

As done for home preparedness! Writes directly on your water faucet to filter contaminated water at home. A perfect addition to storing water for a few days at home. The filter comes sealed and has a very long shelf life, ready when you need it.

-Flow: 1.5-2 L/min
- Lifetime of the replaceable filter: 378,000 L
-Protects against: protozoa and bacteria

There is much more to talk about when it comes to water filters and although these filters fill most needs, we have many more. You can find the entire range here. If you have questions about our water filters, please email us at info@generalprepper.com We usually respond within a few hours.