How To Get Great-Tasting Water From a Boat's Tank - Step by Step | ⛵ Sailing Britaly ⛵ [Boat Work]

We found a $20 water filter kit which turns horrible tasting water from the boat's tank into gorgeous, sweet drinking water. This video covers the entire installation step by step. Replacement filters cost less than $4 and last us 12 months. 🔔 SUBSCRIBE ➜ bit.ly/SBYouTub... Sailing Videos!
However you get your water (Rainwater collection, jerry cans ashore, marina water, watermaker) your boat's tanks can make it taste bad very quickly. This simple activated-charcoal carbon filter kit makes it taste great again and even gets rid of the smell of chlorine if you treat your tanks with that. This is a great addition to any boat.
Timestamp hyperlinks for your convenience:
00:00 Introduction and what's in the kit
00:50 How the self-piercing saddle valve works
01:44 Depressurising and draining down the system
02:50 Cutting a section of copper pipe with a pipe cutter
03:47 Installing copper compression fittings
04:32 Installing the self-piercing saddle valve
05:24 Emma interlude
05:31 Fitting the filter and faucet
12:05 Preliminary leak test
12:52 Piercing the copper pipe with the saddle valve
13:36 Pressurising the installed filter system
14:05 Flushing through the system
14:50 Final leak test
15:04 End of installation
15:33 Rossella's blind taste test
16:45 Chris's honest taste test
17:36 Where to buy and conclusion
You can buy this water filter kit here:
🛒 amzn.to/2TlvGk3 (USA - our exact kit, almost as cheap as the UK)
🛒 amzn.to/2UrpdEa (Amazon UK - our exact kit, cheap as chips!)
🛒 amzn.to/2Sdraqf (Amazon Canada - our exact kit, almost as cheap as the UK)
If someone had told us that we could get our boat's water to taste so good with such a cheap kit, we would never have believed them. However, the proof of the pudding is in the eating and our chlorine-smelling, plastic-tasting tank water really does taste like bottled water after being filtered through this kit.
We can buy a set of 10 spare filters for less than $4 each, and they take up very little space on the boat. We expect 10 filters to last us 10 years. Fitting the kit is easy too... What's not to like?!
⛵Sailing Britaly⛵ brings you the sailing shenanigans of Chris (British), Rossella (Italian), and baby Emma (Britalian!) Our mission is to help YOU achieve YOUR cruising dreams, while working for a better world.
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Fair winds!
Chris, Rossella and Emma 😊
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'Sailing Britaly' is a Helvellyn Ltd brand. Disclaimer: Due to factors beyond the control of Helvellyn Ltd, we cannot guarantee against unauthorized modifications of this information, or improper use of this information. Helvellyn Ltd assumes no liability for property damage, injury or death incurred as a result of any of the information contained in this video. Helvellyn Ltd. recommends safe practices when working with power tools, automotive lifts, lifting tools, jack stands, electrical equipment, blunt instruments, chemicals, lubricants, open flames, or any other tools or equipment seen or implied in this video. Due to factors beyond the control of Helvellyn Ltd, no information contained in this video shall create any express or implied warranty or guarantee of any particular result. Any injury, damage or loss that may result from improper use of these tools, equipment, or the information contained in this video is the sole responsibility of the user and not Helvellyn Ltd. Disclosure: any links in this description may be affiliate links. If you decide to buy some items from them, Helvellyn Ltd may receive a small percentage compensation for having suggested the suppliers to you. (This costs you nothing) As an Amazon Associate we receive compensation for qualifying purchases. Helvellyn Ltd only recommends suppliers and products which we believe in, so there is never any conflict of interest.
Gear used to make this video:
Main Camera: amzn.to/2Pvbk6c (US) amzn.to/2BGGgdD (UK)
18-55mm Lens: amzn.to/2NRgPer (US) amzn.to/2AgLblO (UK)
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Microphone: amzn.to/2nZDPwk (US) amzn.to/2VgP4QD (UK)
Water/Shockproof Hard Drive: amzn.to/2o0BmSc (US) amzn.to/2CA5AUb (UK)
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#boat #waterfilter #sailingbritaly

[@fk8marko774]

Thanks for this, exactly what I was looking for this year, too many water bottles and too much plastic waste, this will save us plenty

[@jsnowman77]

I saw this video almost two years ago and just ordered a set for myself. Thank you inspiring! I hope you 3 are all doing well :)

[@adamkurek7225]

This video helps so much thank you I’ve been looking for a good way to filter water without buying an expensive water maker. THANK YOU!!!!

[@SailingBritaly]

Our pleasure Adam, enjoy the sweet tasting water! Chris 👍

[@David__U]

Thanks! I purchased this filter based on your review, and finally installed it today. I didn't think I'd need to refer back to your video, but I did! The instructions that come with it are not great, and I am very inexperienced. So, thanks again for the suggestion, and the detailed installation video.

[@SailingBritaly]

My pleasure David 👍

[@rogerlloyd1292]

HI I installed the same kit, and we can now drink our tank water (in Lanzarote , desalinated with a a taste) no problem , saves a lot of carrying water

[@SailingBritaly]

Glad to hear it Roger, they are amazing for the price! Chris, Rossella & Emma 🙂

[@liongod1000]

And for those that are not familiar with the correct word for the "Olive" its a FERRULE. Cheers Great 'How To" vlog Chris

[@SailingBritaly]

Hi Robert, both terms are correct. RS UK agree with me (uk.rs-online.com/web/c/plumbing-pipeline/pipe-fittings-accessories/compression-fitting-olives/) and there are many others who agree with you. So we're both right. :-) Cheers, Chris 👍

[@kenwood3604]

Great idea.....

[@scott.wallace8625]

I do alot of plumbing work. Good video, one thing I would change is the "saddle valve" I have never met a licensed plumber who would use that in a house let alone somthing that sinks. Keep an eye on it but honestly I would just put a tee in it's place. Good sailing

[@SailingBritaly]

I've done quite a bit of plumbing (jets, helicopters, robots and houses) and I know how this valve is constructed. I am confident that it will never leak. If it ever did leak (in my opinion highly unlikely because of the simplicity of the valve and more importantly because this is a static installation, in which the saddle valve handle will never again have to be moved from its open position) then we would just be be displacing water from one internal storage space (water tank) into another (the bilge) so there is no need to worry about sinking. Cheers, Chris

[@scott.wallace8625]

@@SailingBritaly ok, it does look beefier than the home depot versions. Good luck

[@tombarker3608]

Emma, Emma, Emma, I miss my internet cutie. She must be walking by now. Another great DIY video. As always safe travel you three.

[@SailingBritaly]

Hi Tom, Emma is running!... She's on her way very soon so stay tuned. 😇 Thanks and best regards! 🙂

[@hakanunal5300]

Learned a lot. Thank you.

[@SailingBritaly]

Our pleasure Hakan :-)

[@TampaTec]

Great idea. 👍

[@SailingBritaly]

Thank you Paul! 👍👍👍

[@luqmandawood1544]

Master master master , thanks

[@flyingdutchman6984]

I installed a similar system after watching your other video. We don't have a pressurized fresh water system, so we have to use the foot pump. I am so used to the foot pump that I can feel the resistance added by the filter. I already have the water running through a Sawyer filter, but it did nothing to improve the taste. The carbon filter made a big difference in the taste, but the boy still isn't too fond of drinking warm water. Can't win them all I guess. 😁

[@SailingBritaly]

Hi guys, thank you for watching! Please give this video a thumbs up if you liked it, and give it a thumbs down if you didn't... however, if you do leave a thumbs down then be a man (or woman), and tell us why. We want to give you more of what you want but we aren't mind readers, so give us your feedback and we will take it on board. Cheers! Chris, Rossella & Emma 🙂 p.s. If you want one of these filter kits for your boat / rv / house you can buy them here: 🛒 amzn.to/2TlvGk3 (USA - our exact kit, almost as cheap as the UK) 🛒 amzn.to/2UrpdEa (Amazon UK - our exact kit, cheap as chips!) 🛒 amzn.to/2Sdraqf (Amazon Canada - our exact kit, almost as cheap as the UK)

[@gillejohn9]

You have the best sailing vlog on KZbin. Keep up this type of video!

[@Photonface]

Your engineering background shines through in your professional concise presentation. Your technical/diy videos are excellent.

[@pascal1826]

Thanks for the tip

[@pslash699]

Another great video chris keep them coming.👍

[@SailingBritaly]

Hi Pete, thank you very much! Very best regards, Chris, Rossella & Emma 👍👍

[@Cheesemeister1977]

I knew about Brita water filters now I know about Britaly's water filter.

[@SailingBritaly]

😂👍

[@mytube001]

Interesting that Rossella doesn't get thirsty. I have the same problem. Frequent headaches because I don't drink enough.

[@barrymccrae7242]

Nice video, clearly explained, however it looks familiar, did you show this video before.

[@SailingBritaly]

Hi Barry, we vlogged during this period, this is a "Boat Work" video which covers the water filter installation step by step. [Just like when we daily vlogged the saildrive diaphragm replacement, whilst at the same time filming a much more detailed "Boat Work" video which we edited months down the line]. This means much more work for us, but we know some people find these detailed videos useful. We have brand new content coming soon including a running around Emma... :-) Cheers, Chris

[@richardhigham1710]

What other tools do you keep on board? I never thought about keeping copper pipe and a pipe cutter on board. I’ve got a removable, table top vice that would have made that job easier.

[@marcelop9377]

Nice video and as always well explained. But this kit uses a charcoal activated filter - I am not an expert and I assume we need to be carefull when away from the big centers as it is only good for treated tap water and it does not kill bacteria. Is this correct?

[@anonymous-dk1wb]

I have 3 separate tanks that all have seperate valves to open to switch tanks how would this set up work

[@SailingBritaly]

There's no difference as you're adding it adjacent to one of the faucets. Whichever tank is open will feed the filter. 👍

[@jannisreich1659]

Hey Chris, are you going to install solar Panels soon? Didn´t you post a teaser Video about that?

[@edsondantas7179]

Parabéns você é o cara 10 gosti

[@edsondantas7179]

Iai amigo como vai você é o cara iteligente fica com deus você é sua família linda

[@yogawithsueathome3736]

Hi Chris another fab vid :) We have only just found your channel so lots to see. We have a VW LT31Florida camper van rather than a boat as sadly I am not so great on the water :(. My hubby Craig loves the idea of fitting this to Florie but noticed you switch on your water pump to pressurise the system. Our sink tap works when we turn on the hot or cold knob. Would turning on the filter tap once fitted activate our water pump ? Or would we need some additional electrics ? Kind Regards Craig & Sue.

[@SailingBritaly]

Hi Craig & Sue, camper vans and boats are basically the same thing just on land and water respectively. (We have a 40-year-old Mk2 Transit camper can ourselves, as of this year’s border-closing craziness!) Your system works the same way that ours does in that the pressure drop caused by turning in a tap is sensed and causes the pump to run. So yes you could fit this and it would work. You’ll love the taste of the water! Cheers, Chris 👍

[@yogawithsueathome3736]

@@SailingBritaly Thats great news Chris we will order the tap right now fella :) Keep the vids coming loving them.

[@gillejohn9]

What are the advantages of having a separate faucet as apposed to installing an inline filter and using the same faucet?

[@SailingBritaly]

1) You only filter your drinking water, so your other water is not filtered unnecessarily. This prolongs the life of your filter. 2) You don't have to suffer the dramatic reduction in flow rate when you are using your primary faucet / shower for anything other than obtaining drinking water. Cheers, Chris

[@sunfastx]

one doubt, the copper will not get oxidized?

[@sailinginvictus44]

Ive been looking for a cheap(er) water filter to use. It is a bit more expensive here in the US, but still not bad. The kicker is that the shipping is half the price of the filter. :( Probably still get it though.

[@SailingBritaly]

I don't know what the prices are with shipping but let's say you pay $60 for this kit plus a pack of ten replacement filters. That will give you many years of fresh tasting drinking water, without having to deal with bottled water (buying, carrying, disposing of the plastic bottles), so for me it's a worthwhile investment. Cheers, Chris

[@netpackrat]

Seems like you went to a lot of trouble to use that special fitting in a location where a regular pipe tee would have been more appropriate.

[@SailingBritaly]

The self-piercing saddle clamp is included with the kit and it was a lot easier for me to find the standard copper pipe (which I needed to have on board anyway) and standard compression fittings from local household hardware suppliers, rather than wasting time trying to find a 15mm x 15mm x 1/4" Tee, which is a specialist item not stocked by major suppliers. It might look like 'a lot of trouble' in the video, because I go into very fine detail for the benefit of any viewers with zero plumbing experience, but without counting time spent filming, installing the saddle valve and short section of copper pipe was a 5 minute job. Chris

[@jontybray8514]

I was wondering the same thing.. but Chris' explanation makes sense 👍

[@netpackrat]

@@SailingBritaly I see. I was thinking put a reducer on the pipe tee to get down to the smaller size, but it's the going from metric to inch that makes it a pain. I probably would have made my own reducer by tapping a 15mm pipe plug to 1/4NPT, but that's me. Your solution works too. And again, were it me, I would probably still look for the pipe fittings required for my permanent installation, but you've obviously got enough experience with the self-piercing fittings to trust them.

[@Thomas-ts2gl]

As soon as you can..you should find a tee... Those clamp on tees should never be used. Especially on a boat...you have a good chance of loosing all of your fresh water. Everything else looked great.. I'm going to order one for my boat.. Thanks for the video..

[@alextodd5487]

Over/under 1 filter change before one of those blue collars go missing.

[@SVImpavidus]

Good money saving tip! Sail Safe. Ant & Cid SV Impavidus.

[@SailingBritaly]

Thanks guys, fair winds! Chris, Rossella & Emma 🙂

[@joechavez2643]

Hey Britaly crew! What do you use to clean the fresh water tanks on your boat? I've got a 83 liter tank that's been sitting for a few seasons. It's a bit stagnant to say the least. I've used small amounts of bleach in the past and just flushed the system multiple times afterwards. Just takes a while with a foot pump. Wondering if you had any tips?

[@tiborkiss9186]

you can buy some specific powder to clean watertanks - we bought it in a marine shop. for 40 gallons of water, only a teaspoon of powder is needed.

[@joechavez2643]

@@tiborkiss9186 thanks! I'm looking to clean the tank not really the water in the tank.

[@rlsailors7007]

Any reason why you didn't use a 15x15x10mm reducer tee? Available in push fit plastic so no need for copper? No doubt a lack of shops on the Italian Riviera / boat life?

[@SailingBritaly]

I would have needed a 15mm x 15mm x 1/4" Tee, which is a specialist fitting not supplied in the home plumbing supplier shops I like to shop in (huge inventory on site, low prices, quick purchasing experience, close to hand). I needed the copper pipe on board anyway, and the standard 15 mm compression fittings are ten a penny in any plumbing supplier's shop. Cheers, Chris

[@rlsailors7007]

@@SailingBritaly You should have replaced all the pipework on the boat with standard sizes before you started Chris 😂

[@superdave90934750824]

An* undersink filter kit.

[@JonMadsen70]

:)

[@SailingBritaly]

🙂🙂🙂