B.E.S.T. water filter

We had no wish to revisit my wife Denyse's bout of Giardiasis. So, when I spotted an advertisement in Motorhome World for the B.E.S.T. (Bacteria-Eliminating Silver Treatment) in-line filter, I called them up, and they sent me one.

I had already checked out B.E.S.T.'s comprehensive website, and full instructions came with the filter. My caravan is 16ft (4.9m), and there isn't enough room for the larger, more popular type that fits under or beside the sink. Many RVers have asked me if there is a smaller version, and here it is.

The filter is only 29cm long and 16cm in circumference, and has a male 'click' fitting in each end that plugs into your hose with standard fittings. As it is a sealed unit, it is safe to lay it on the ground. This particular unit filters to one micron and takes out dirt, bacteria and parasites. Another model filters to five microns. Choose the model that is best (no pun intended) for you.

Another version has screw-in fittings, allowing instillation into a water pipe inside the RV. This option allows you to only filter drinking water, if you wish, considerably extending the life of the filter.

In the centre of the B.E.S.T. filter is high-quality carbon (charcoal) that removes a broad range of chemicals and contaminants, and there is a micron-rated membrane at each end to stop rust, dirt and sediment, as they enter the filter.

A bed of silver-coated crystals at each end of the filter kills bacteria very effectively, ensuring that there is no build-up of bacteria within the filter. This is especially beneficial for RVers who travel intermittently. With ordinary carbon filters, you need to empty out any water and store them in the fridge between trips to minimise bacterial build-up.

High levels of silver intake can be unhealthy, but tests show that the amount of silver in the water coming out of the filter is very low, and is well within safe levels.

One interesting aspect of the filter's design is that it can be readily back washed. Once the flow of water starts to slow, it can be reversed in the hose, and flushed to remove trapped substances. With an RV application, this should be done monthly.

Each filter will last for 5000L, or until that unpleasant taste returns to your water. I'm told that some people have had the same filter for three years.

The filter is effective, and could be the answer for those who don't have room for a larger model. Because it actually kills bacteria in the water, it is arguably the best on the market, and costs a reasonable $94.

I have so far used this filter for only a short while, but it is living up to all the manufacturer's claims.

In my case I run water through the filter as it goes into our water tank. This will be our drinking water when in dubious areas.

Contact B.E.S.T. Water Filters, PO Box 2326, Southport BC, Qld, 1800 240 822, http://www.bestwaterfilters.com.au/