Are you tired of dealing with hard water while camping? Mineral deposits can clog up your RV pipes and damage appliances if left unchecked. If you are battling hard water at campgrounds, you need a portable RV water softener.
Keep reading to learn more about the best options for your rig.
Our Top Picks
Best Overall
On The Go Portable RV Water Softener
Best Budget
Camco TastePURE Portable Water Softener
Best Salt-Free
Eddy Electronic Water Descaler
Best Overall
On The Go Portable RV Water Softener
Do you spend more time in your RV than at home? Are you a full-time traveler living in your camper? If so, you need a high-capacity water softener capable of handling your demanding lifestyle.
The On The Go Portable RV Water Softener is the best overall choice for its exceptional performance and reliability. It offers a 16,000-grain capacity that can provide you with softened water throughout your extended trips without the need for frequent regeneration.
This compact and lightweight water softener is easy to transport and set up, making it ideal for frequent traveling. Its high flow rate ensures you won’t experience a drop in water pressure while enjoying hot showers and doing dishes in your RV.
Pros
- This high-capacity water softener is suitable for full-time RV travelers
- Compact and lightweight design for easy transportation and installation
- Maintains high water flow rate for refreshing showers
Cons
- More expensive compared to other portable RV water softeners
- Requires periodic regeneration for optimal performance
- It does not include a bypass valve for non-softened water usage
Best Budget
Camco TastePURE Portable Water Softener
If you’re looking for an affordable RV water softener without compromising quality, the Camco TastePURE Portable Water Softener is for you. Camco is renowned among RV enthusiasts for providing reliable and cost-effective camping accessories, and this water softener is no exception.
This softener effectively reduces the hardness of water, preventing mineral buildup in your RV’s plumbing system. Its compact and lightweight design makes it a convenient choice for small RVs and trailers.
The 10,000-grain capacity is ideal for most casual and weekend campers. Plus, the regeneration process is quick and easy, so you can get back to enjoying your trip faster.
Pros
- An affordable option for budget-conscious RVers
- Compact and lightweight design for easy portability and storage
- Easy regeneration process to maximize the lifespan of resin beads
Cons
- Smaller capacity compared to high-end models
- The flow rate may be slightly lower than more expensive options
- Some users reported issues with leaks and durability
Best Salt-Free
Eddy Electronic Water Descaler
Some people prefer not to use salt-based water softeners due to personal preferences or health concerns. The Eddy Electronic Water Descaler is the best choice if you’re looking for a salt-free alternative that effectively reduces water hardness.
This innovative device utilizes electromagnetic waves to alter the structure of minerals in the water, preventing them from forming scale and buildup in your RV’s plumbing system. It doesn’t remove the minerals entirely but transforms them into a crystalline form that doesn’t adhere to surfaces.
This device is perfect if you want to take advantage of the natural minerals in hard water without damaging your plumbing. The Eddy Water Descaler is easy to install and requires little maintenance, making it a convenient option for RVers seeking a salt-free water treatment solution.
Pros
- Salt-free alternative for those who prefer not to use salt-based softeners
- Utilizes electromagnetic waves to prevent scale and mineral buildup—no regeneration necessary
- Easy installation and little maintenance required
Cons
- It does not entirely remove minerals from the water
- It may not be as effective for extremely hard water
- Some users reported inconsistent results in preventing scale buildup
Best Multi-Stage Filter
Clearsource Ultra RV Water Filter System
If you want softened and purified water that tastes amazing everywhere you travel, the Clearsource Ultra RV Water Filter System is the best multi-stage filter for your RV. This comprehensive system combines softening and filtration to provide clean, great-tasting water everywhere you venture.
Its multi-stage filtration process removes sediments, contaminants, and chlorine, while the built-in water softener eliminates hardness-causing minerals. The result is refreshing, purified water that enhances your RVing experience.
The Clearsource Ultra RV Water Filter System is designed for durability and convenience, with high-quality components and an easy-to-use design. With this system, you can enjoy clean and soft water for drinking, cooking, and showering wherever you go.
Pros
- Provides both water softening and filtration in one device
- Removes sediments, contaminants, and chlorine for improved taste and quality
- Durable construction and user-friendly design with easy filter replacement
Cons
- Higher initial cost compared to standalone water softeners or filters
- Requires regular filter replacement to maintain optimal performance
- Installation may require additional fittings or modifications
RV Water Softener Buyer’s Guide
What is the best type of water softener for your RV? The answer depends on how often you camp and what kind of filtration you want.
You must know what features to look for to find the right RV water softener for your situation. Check out the following buyer’s guide to learn more.
Flow Rate
Maintaining decent water pressure in your RV is essential for enjoyable showers and efficient water usage. When choosing an RV water softener, consider the flow rate it provides.
Higher flow rates ensure consistent water pressure, allowing you to enjoy a comfortable and satisfying shower experience. Look for water softeners that offer adequate flow rates to meet your needs.
Grain Capacity
The grain capacity of a water softener determines how often you need to regenerate or replace the resin beads. Higher grain capacities allow the water softener to handle more minerals before regeneration is required.
If you frequently camp in areas with very hard water, a water softener with a larger grain capacity would be ideal to minimize the regeneration frequency. However, a smaller device should suffice if you are a casual camper on a budget.
Filtration
While water softeners focus on reducing water hardness, they may not address other water quality issues such as sediments, contaminants, or chlorine.
If you want soft and pure water that tastes great, consider investing in a multi-stage filter that combines water softening and filtration. These systems provide an extra layer of protection by removing impurities and improving the taste and quality of your water.
Size
Space is limited when you stay in an RV, so it’s crucial to choose a water softener that fits. You can install some RV water softeners onto the side of your trailer while others sit on the ground.
Consider the dimensions and weight of the water softener to ensure you can easily transport and store it in your RV. Additionally, check if the water softener requires additional accessories or installation considerations that may affect its size requirements.
RV Water Softener Frequently Asked Questions
What are the signs that you need a water softener?
Hard water leaves mineral deposits on fixtures and appliances that are hard to miss. If you need to descale your coffee machine frequently, you probably have hard water.
Minerals in hard water also cause soap scum and difficulty lathering, leave spots on dishes and glassware, and can lead to dry skin and hair. If you notice these signs during your RV camping trips, it’s a good indication that you need a water softener to improve your water quality.
What happens if you don’t use a water softener?
If you don’t use a water softener, mineral buildup in your pipes can lead to clogs and reduced water flow. It can also cause damage to your RV’s plumbing system, appliances, and fixtures.
Over time, the increased mineral content in the water can result in decreased efficiency and lifespan of water heaters, faucets, and other water-related equipment. It will also damage delicate appliances like electric kettles and coffee makers, leading to expensive repairs and replacements.
What kind of salt do you use in an RV water softener?
You can refresh most RV water softeners with common table salt. The salt cleanses the resin beads and recharges the water softener so it can tackle more minerals.
It’s important to use high-purity salt without any additives, as certain impurities or additives can negatively affect the performance of the water softener. Look for salt specifically labeled as suitable for water softeners to ensure optimal results.
Get the Best RV Water Softener for Camping
Choosing the right RV water softener is essential for maintaining the performance and longevity of your rig’s plumbing system. Whether you opt for a high-capacity water softener, a budget-friendly option, a salt-free alternative, or a multi-stage filter, there is a solution that suits your needs.
Do you want to learn more about keeping your RV in the best shape for camping? Check out our RV camping hub for the latest guides and equipment reviews.