Water Filters for Caravans and RVs: Options Explained

Couple relaxing beside a caravan with a Puretec CR Series filter

For caravans and RVs, Puretec offers three main choices: the CR20 inline hose filter to filter water as you fill your tank, the CR45 twin-stage hose kit with extra sediment capacity, or the CR-Z2 under-bench system with its own filter tap to filter water at the point of use. Puretec designs its caravan range to connect to 12 mm metric fittings or standard 1/2″ garden hose fittings, the most common connections in recreational vehicles.

Hose-connected filters (filter as you fill)

CR20 inline filter

The CR20 is a portable inline filter that connects to standard garden hose fittings. Puretec states it uses carbon filtration with SilverPlus™ antibacterial technology to reduce taste, odour and chemicals and inhibit bacterial growth, with 1 micron (nominal) filtration at up to 20 Lpm.

CR45 twin-stage filter kit

The CR45 connects to a mains water tap to filter water while filling your tank, or directly to the inlet water line. Puretec says it is highly effective at reducing chlorine, bad taste and odour, as well as some organic chemicals, and quotes 99.9% removal of Giardia and Cryptosporidium cysts. It includes a washable sediment cartridge and a silver-impregnated cartridge to inhibit bacterial growth.

Under-bench filter with tap: CR-Z2

The CR-Z2 is a compact system for limited under-bench space. Puretec’s key points:

  • Z Plus 3-stage filtration down to 1 micron (nominal), reducing chlorine, chemicals, sediment, rust and algae.
  • Designed for mains, rain, harsh and rural water.
  • Uses the Z2-R cartridge with a capacity of 38,000 litres.
  • Connects to 12 mm tubing; dedicated filter tap and standard caravan/RV fittings included.
  • Mounts horizontally or vertically, with valve-in-head for a DIY, no-mess filter change.
  • LED light turns from blue to red when the filter needs replacing.
  • Operating range 200–520 kPa and 0–38°C.

Fresh water pump

The PT-12DC11 12 V pump delivers up to 11.3 Lpm of pressurised fresh water through your caravan or RV. Puretec describes it as self-priming, run-dry safe and quiet, with internal bypass technology to reduce cycling.

Which caravan filter suits you?

CR20CR45CR-Z2
TypeInline hose filterTwin-stage hose kitUnder-bench system with tap
Connection1/2″ garden hose1/2″ garden hose12 mm tubing
Filtration (nominal)1 micron1 micron1 micron
SuitsSimple fillingExtra sediment capacityFiltered drinking water on tap

Looking for “Hybrid G7 RV”?

We get a lot of searches for a Puretec Hybrid G7 RV. The Puretec Hybrid G7 is a whole-house rainwater filtration and UV system, and the Puretec information we hold does not list an RV version. For caravans and motorhomes, Puretec’s CR range is the purpose-built option. If you already own a Hybrid G7, see our Hybrid G7 / R2 cartridge guide.

Puretec advises protecting its filters from freezing.

Installation: connection to your water supply must be carried out by a licensed plumber, and any hard-wired electrical work by a licensed electrician.

Recommended products

Frequently asked questions

Can I fit a caravan water filter myself?

The CR20 and CR45 connect to standard garden hose fittings. The CR-Z2 is described by Puretec as quick and easy to install with fittings included; if you are connecting to a fixed water supply or are unsure, use a licensed plumber.

Do caravan filters kill bacteria?

Puretec’s CR range uses silver-impregnated or SilverPlus media to inhibit bacterial growth, and the CR45 is rated for 99.9% removal of Giardia and Cryptosporidium cysts. The CR range does not include UV.

When should I replace the CR-Z2 cartridge?

Puretec rates the Z2-R cartridge at 38,000 litres, and the CR-Z2’s LED light turns from blue to red when the filter needs replacing.

Is there a Puretec Hybrid G7 RV model?

The Puretec information we hold lists the Hybrid G7 as a whole-house rainwater system and does not include an RV version. For caravans, see the CR range, or call us with your model details.

Related guides: How to change a filter cartridge, Hybrid G7 / R2 cartridges, Which water filter do I need?.

Questions? Call or text 0447 203 775 or email [email protected] and we will help you choose.

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