22
Sep
3 Things to Consider When Buying a Portable Water Filter
Whether you’re heading into the backcountry for a hiking trip, preparing an emergency kit, or just looking for a reliable water filtration solution on the go, choosing the right portable water filter can make all the difference. However, not all filters are created equal. Here are three key factors to consider before making your purchase:
1. Filtration Rating and Technology
The effectiveness of a water filter is measured in part by how well it removes harmful microorganisms. Look for filters with a 99.999% removal rate (also expressed as a 5-log reduction) for bacteria, protozoa, and microbial cysts—the most common contaminants in natural water sources.
Pay close attention to the filter’s pore size, typically measured in microns. A filter with a 0.2-micron pore size can physically block bacteria and protozoa from passing through. Many of the top-rated portable filters use hollow fiber membrane technology, which offers efficient filtration and high flow rates without the need for chemicals.
Other features to look for include:
- Two-stage filtration: Combines physical filtration with carbon elements to remove unpleasant tastes, odors, and possibly some chemicals.
- Field cleanable and maintainable: Filters that can be cleaned and reused in the field are ideal for long-term or repeated use.
- Chemical/toxin filtration: Some filters include additional media to reduce or eliminate chemicals like chlorine or pesticides, though not all do—check the specs if this is important for your use case.
2. Certifications and Testing Standards
A reliable filter should be tested against established safety and performance standards. Look for certifications or independent testing that align with:
- U.S. EPA drinking water standards* for microbial removal.
- NSF Protocol P231 specifically tests for the removal of bacteria and protozoa under real-world conditions.
While some filters may not be “certified” due to the cost of official certification, many reputable brands will still publish third-party lab test results that demonstrate compliance with these standards.
3. Virus Protection: Filter vs. Purifier
This critical distinction often confuses buyers: Most portable water filters do not remove viruses.
Viruses like norovirus or hepatitis A are much smaller than bacteria and protozoa and can slip through the pores of standard filters. If you’re traveling to regions with poor sanitation or potential viral contamination, consider upgrading to a water purifier designed to remove viruses, bacteria, and protozoa.
Water purifiers typically rely on:
- Chemical disinfectants (e.g., chlorine dioxide tablets)
- Ultraviolet (UV) light devices that deactivate viruses through short exposure
While purifiers often require additional steps or batteries, they’re the safest option for dealing with uncertain or high-risk water sources.
Bottom Line:
When selecting a portable water filter, don’t just look at size or flow rate. Understand how well it removes contaminants, what standards it’s tested against, and whether it offers virus protection. Your health—and your adventure—depends on it.
Sawyer Products SP128 Mini Water Filtration System
