If you’ve been following me, you know we spend a lot of time camping off-grid. This winter, we’re in the desert for about four months of off-grid camping. During the summer, we spend another four months on our boat, mostly anchored off-grid as well. With limited hookups, getting good water is critical, especially since Anne has a sensitive stomach. Early on, I started using water filtration systems to ensure clean water for drinking and cooking.
We initially used a two-stage system with sediment and carbon filters, but later switched to a three-stage system that included a final stage for removing viruses and bacteria. This setup kept our fresh tank clean and free of sediments, preventing algae growth. However, the system was bulky and heavy, so we looked for more compact options.
Blu Technology offered a smaller, three-stage filter system, which I used for a while. Despite its compact size, I found the smaller 5″ filters didn’t last as long as the 10″ before water flow became reduced. This trip, I decided to go back to the larger 10-inch filters for better performance. Blue Technology has now introduced a compact 10-inch system, which I will be testing and reviewing for you this season.
They also provided additional accessory items like a pressure regulator and water flow measurement device. I’m excited to test these new products and share the results with you. Stay tuned for more test videos and a final review at the end of our snowbird trip in May.
GoBluTech AR3 XLt Review Part One
Unboxing and first hookup of the new GoBluTech AR3 XLt – Adventure Series – 10″ 0.2 Micron 3-Stage RV Water Filter System.
Part Two – RV Park Tests, In-Depth Details & Questions Answered
Key Product Points:
- Maximum Flow Rate: The OFFGRID we use is third party tested for the containment reduction at 4 GPM MAX (right on the cert). What this means that if flowing over 4 GPM, the filter is not able to perform to the reductions as designed… essentially “blowing out” the filter.
- What Blu Technology has purposeful done is to design it’s heads and hoses to keep the flow rate around 3 GPM at 45 psi (why we sell a pressure regulator set at 45 psi), so we have a safety factor included.
- Our NSF certification ensure user that the entire system are drinking water safe. We are the only mobile system in the market certified at the product and plant level. Not just the filters, but every component, as an assembly, has been third party tested AND certified to meet drinking water standards. A very important step for any company serious about safer water.
- No Pressure Loss (City/Well Water). Our systems, including the stack up of our hoses, accessories, water softener, etc. will assure no pressure loss in the coach at any fixture.
- Weight and Size: The difference between Blu Technology and Clearsource is: 40% smaller by cubic inch and 60% lighter by weight
- Veteran Owned: While we have always been Veteran owed, we have not talked to the public about this until now. Not only are our systems designed and assembled in the US, we are also owned by a US Veteran, Army and Air Force.
My Questions Answered by Blue Technology CEO
Are any pieces of the product fully made in the USA, or is it just put together here?
We have over 100 products that we have designed and developed, so it is not a simple answer. But we do have a number of components that are US made, while others are international sourced.
How do you maintain the quality of the imported materials? Do you have to get the systems retested quite often?
This was the primary driver behind our investment in getting our products at the system level NSF Certified. The NSF Certification assures that the material of EVERY component in the system is drinking water safe. This not only required an in-depth ANSI standard lab testing, but also a manufacturing site audit to assure the safety of our process and quality systems. To maintain this certification, we are audited every year to assure we have met the standard on the system level and our manufacturing/quality systems.
What are the metal components made of ?
Is it stainless steel for the water connections and aluminum for the frame? All of the metal components are Stainless Steel 304, which is deemed drinking water safe by NSF, ANSI, including all fasteners. The frame, top plate and handle are anodized Aluminum, to maintain lightweight and corrosion resistance. We use stainless steel 304 in all our hoses, accessories, etc. for the following reasons: Stainless steel 304 is widely used in drinking water applications due to its exceptional properties that align well with the requirements of this sector. Here are the key reasons:
1. Corrosion Resistance
Stainless steel 304 has excellent resistance to corrosion, including in environments that are slightly acidic or alkaline, which makes it ideal for drinking water systems.
It resists rust and pitting, ensuring longevity and reducing maintenance.
2. Safety and Hygiene
It is non-toxic and does not leach harmful substances into water, ensuring water safety for consumption.
Its smooth, non-porous surface prevents bacterial growth, making it hygienic for applications where cleanliness is paramount.
3. Durability
Stainless steel 304 is strong and durable, with a long lifespan even under high-pressure conditions or varying temperatures.
It withstands mechanical stresses, ensuring reliable performance in pipes, fittings, and other drinking water components.
4. Taste Neutrality
Unlike some other materials, stainless steel 304 does not impart any metallic taste or odor to the water, preserving its natural quality.
5. Eco-Friendliness
Stainless steel 304 is 100% recyclable, aligning with sustainable practices and environmental standards in modern water systems.
6. Compliance with Standards
It complies with international safety and hygiene standards for drinking water, such as NSF/ANSI certifications, ensuring it meets regulatory requirements.
Difference between 5″ filter system vs 10″ lifespan?
I wanted to follow up on a comment you made in the article and the video “Despite its compact size, the smaller filters clogged quickly, reducing water flow”
I just wanted to clarify a cricial point. Even though you are able to get more use out of a 10″ filter, in the RV environment, it is recommended to change filters every three to four months due to bacteria formation. This is why we designed the 5″ system, because it life matches up with the 3-4 months.
I only bring this up, because the way your statement was made, it makes the 5″ seem like a “bad” system, when in fact we received rave reviews on this system and all of our testing show high performance level for well/municipal for 3-4 months. If you saw less then 3-4 months or performance, it maybe because you are primarily off grid.
We want you to be completely transparent with you audience, but was wondering if you would be willing to restate the functionality of the 5″, highlighting it maybe good for well and municipal water, but for Off-grid use, a 10″ is a better choice.
Part 3 – Longer Term Review Update
I’ve been using the Blue Technology water filter system for three months, and it’s time to share an update. I love its compact 10-inch design, which fits perfectly in my RV compartment, and the included storage bag with quick-connect fittings makes setup a breeze for off-grid camping.
The filters, about $65, last three to four months and are simple to swap out with the provided tool. I’ve noticed reduced flow lately, signaling it’s time to replace them. The system features a sediment pre-filter, a coconut shell carbon filter for producing great-tasting water, and a 0.2-micron filter to remove bacteria, with an optional off-grid setup for use with lake or stream water.
I’ve also been testing their durable stainless steel pressure regulator and flow meter, both of which are built for drinking water safety. While in the desert, the filters captured a significant amount of sediment. I’m excited to keep using this on my boat this summer, paired with a new UV purifier faucet for extra filtration.
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