Product Overview: GoBluTech RV Water Filtration System
Website: goblutech.com
Rating: 9.1 out of 10
Cost: $500 for base system
I’ve been on quite the water filtration journey, and you know what? It’s been enlightening. Moving from my trusty Clearsource 3-stage filter to trying out the Blu Tech R3 felt like a bit of a leap, but hey, that’s how you find out what works best for your setup. Switching systems isn’t just about change for the sake of it; it’s about discovering convenience, efficiency, and sometimes, a little surprise.
So, why try something new? Well, some fellow fulltime RV friends suggested Blu Technologies based in Michigan, suggesting their system might just fit the bill for my needs. I was intrigued—because let’s be honest, who doesn’t like a local hero trying to change the scene with some good ol’ American manufacturing? The Blu Tech system promised to be compact, efficient, and robust with most of its parts made right here in the USA.
Blu Technologies, with their focus on quality and innovation, sparked my curiosity with their compact design and stainless steel components—something my old Clearsource didn’t quite offer in such a sleek package. But it wasn’t just about the hardware. I sensed that they were genuinely committed to bringing something new to the game of water filtration.
Innovative Features of Blu Tech R3 System
When you hear about the Blu Tech R3 System, it’s all about being compact without compromising on quality. This setup is anything but bulky, weighing in at just 13 pounds and sporting a neat size of 8.25″ x 9.5″ x 14″. It’s like the tiny house of water filters, ideal for those of us who don’t have room to spare.
One of the standout features? Those stainless steel elements. You’ll find stainless steel canisters, which are not just for show—they mean durability. Add to that tough steel hose quick-connects, and you’ve got yourself a system built to handle the rugged outdoors.
The Blu Tech R3 isn’t just about looking good, though. It’s supposedly built for performance, with a three-stage filtration system that works even with off-grid water sources like streams and lakes. It even has an elite model upgrade for serious adventure seekers. So whether you’re boondocking in the middle of nowhere or just want a reliable backup, this system seems ready for the job.
What really caught my eye was their pledge to local manufacturing. Most of the parts are made in the USA, which is a big deal if you’re looking to support local businesses while getting top-notch quality.
To tie it all together, the design matches function with its rugged plastic and aluminum housing, keeping it lightweight yet sturdy. So if you’re tired of hauling around heavy equipment just to get clean water, consider the Blu Tech R3 as your new travel companion.
Comparative Analysis: Blu Tech R3 vs. Clearsource
Switching from Clearsource to Blu Tech R3 has been enlightening, introducing a few key differences worth noting. Let’s chat about the flow rate first. With Blu Tech’s smaller filters, you might notice a dip in gallon-per-minute flow compared to the larger Clearsource system. While this might raise eyebrows, especially for those who are used to a torrent of water, the trade-off might just be worth it if portability is your game. Honestly, I didn’t really notice that much of a difference. Especially since I always use a pressure regulator.
Speaking of portability, Blu Tech takes the cake. We’re talking a much more compact and lighter unit, which makes setting up and moving around on your trips way easier. If, like me, you’ve been hauling those bigger systems, this will seem like a breath of fresh air for your packing routine. The carrying bag is a godsend.
When it comes to filter size, the original ten-inch filters from Clearsource spoil you with fewer replacements. However, the five-inch filters of the Blu Tech boast their own benefits. While they do need more frequent changes, they slot right into the compact design, offering a quick and easy swap with the included tool when you’re off hiding in nature.
In balancing size and convenience, Blu Tech draws a clear line in the sand, catering especially to those who value an agile, less cumbersome solution. If portability and American-made craftsmanship are your priorities, this could be exactly what you’re hunting for.
Exploring the Pros and Cons
Diving into the pros of the Blu Tech R3 System, the standout for me has been its lightweight and portable nature. Lugging it around feels less like a chore and more like carrying an essential asset for any off-grid adventure or everyday RV trip. It’s built for those of us who want something durable and reliable without the bulk.
The stainless steel components and rugged construction make it robust enough to brave outdoor conditions. Its design anticipates off-grid scenarios, with options for upgrades like a built-in 12V pump and onboard battery pack to filter water straight from natural sources.
However, no system is perfect, and the Blu Tech R3 isn’t shy about its lower flow rate compared to some larger setups. For those accustomed to a robust water flow, adjusting might take a bit of patience. And while the smaller filters work beautifully with this design, they are prone to needing more frequent replacements, which is something to budget for.
On the customer service front, there have been whispers of less-than-stellar warranty responsiveness. The premium price point, hovering around $500, also deserves a mention. It’s an investment for sure, so weighing these factors against what Blu Tech brings in terms of portability and durability is key. All that said, I am very pleased with my purchase.
Despite potential drawbacks, the Blu Tech R3’s versatility in both off-grid and regular situations, coupled with its quality build, offer promising value—especially if you’re scouting for an American-made solution designed to go where you go.
Blu Tech R3 in Real-World Usage Scenarios
Taking the Blu Tech R3 System into real-world environments really highlights its strengths and a few learning points. Off-grid camping and boondocking are where this system thrives, making a reliable companion when you need to convert fresh lakes or river water into something safe for your RV when coupled with an addon pump system.
I’ve put this system to the test across a variety of scenarios—filling up RV fresh tanks, using it with shower faucets, and various questionable RV park water systems. Even with challenging conditions, like the arid southwest deserts, the Blu Tech R3 has proven its mettle.
On the purchasing front, the system is priced at around $500, available through Amazon or directly from Blu Technologies. This puts it in a premium category, but it’s about weighing this against its promises of portability, resilience, and American craftsmanship.
For those keen to explore road adventures and off-grid living, especially with the added perks of upgrading for even more remote filtering abilities, this filter seems like a solid choice. As always, keeping an eye on future reviews and updates will provide even more insights into its long-term capabilities.
About the Author
Jim has 3.5 years of experience living and traveling full-time in an RV. From “moochdocking” with family and friends to navigating the financial intricacies of RV life, he shares practical advice rooted in firsthand experience. His goal is to help fellow adventurers embrace the RV lifestyle with confidence and ease.
As a seasoned prepper I want access to clean water during any type of emergency, the Blu Tech R3 Elite Water Filter System presents a compelling option on the surgace. Its compact design—measuring 8.25″ x 9.5″ x 14″ and weighing 13 pounds—facilitates easy storage and transport, crucial for situations requiring mobility.
The system’s three-stage filtration process, featuring stainless steel canisters and heavy-duty steel hose quick connects, underscores its durability and effectiveness in filtering contaminants from various water
However, it’s important to make a note that the Blu Tech R3’s has small 5-inch filters which usually necessitates more frequent replacements compared to larger systems like Clearsource, which utilize 10-inch filters. This could impact long-term maintenance considerations. Having said that is a great back up system for me
Thanks for the comment Catherine! I appreciate your insights as a seasoned prepper! I’m glad to hear you find the Blu Tech R3 Elite Water Filter System a compelling option, especially with its compact design and durable construction. You’re absolutely right that the system’s size and portability make it a practical choice for emergency situations where mobility is key. The three-stage filtration process is indeed one of its strong points, offering reliable performance in removing contaminants.
You make an excellent point about the smaller 5-inch filters potentially requiring more frequent replacements compared to larger systems like Clearsource. For preppers considering long-term usage, this is definitely a factor to weigh. However, as you’ve highlighted, the Blu Tech R3 serves as a great backup system, and its ease of storage and transport can make it a valuable part of any emergency preparedness kit. For me being fulltime in an RV I didn’t find the smaller filter size much of an issue. Thank you again for your thoughtful feedback—it’s always great to hear how readers are planning to integrate these tools into their preparedness strategies!
The Blu Tech R3 Water Filtration System certainly appears to stand out for its portability and rugged design, making it an appealing choice for both full-time RVers and emergency preppers. The compact nature of the system, combined with durable stainless steel components, makes it a great option for those seeking a lightweight solution for off-grid and emergency situations. As highlighted by the commenter, the ability to filter water from natural sources like lakes or rivers adds an extra layer of confidence for users in remote environments.
That said, the concern about the smaller 5-inch filters requiring more frequent replacements is a valid one. While the system excels in portability and durability, preppers and those planning for long-term use may need to account for the additional maintenance required. As mentioned in the review, balancing the convenience of portability with the potential for higher maintenance is key to determining whether this system fits one’s long-term needs.
For those in the market for a reliable backup water filtration system, the Blu Tech R3 seems like a great option to consider. Its American-made craftsmanship and efficient performance in off-grid scenarios are certainly notable strengths. However, as with any investment, it’s important to consider both the initial cost and the long-term upkeep when making a final decision.
Thank you for your thoughtful comment on my review of the Blu Tech R3 Water Filtration System! I completely agree that the system’s portability and rugged stainless-steel design make it an excellent choice for full-time RVers, emergency preppers, and anyone looking for a reliable solution for off-grid scenarios. Its ability to filter water from natural sources like lakes or rivers truly sets it apart, offering peace of mind to users in remote environments. The compact design also aligns well with the space-saving needs of RV living, which is often a top priority for many travelers and adventurers.
Your observation about the smaller 5-inch filters requiring more frequent replacements is a valid point. While the filters’ smaller size contributes to the system’s portability, it does mean that users planning for long-term or high-volume use will need to factor in additional maintenance. As I noted in the review, this trade-off is something prospective buyers should weigh carefully, especially if their goal is long-term sustainability. Ultimately, the Blu Tech R3 strikes a balance between convenience and reliability, making it a strong contender for those prioritizing portability and ease of use over minimal maintenance requirements.