Guzzle H2O Stream water purification system tested

When you’re hitting the outback or setting up camp at a bush site, clean water is imperative.

That’s where the Guzzle H2O Stream comes in. This top-notch water purification system is perfect for Aussie adventurers, campers, and anyone needing a reliable source of clean drinking water while off the grid.

I’ve been running the Guzzle H2O Stream for the past couple of years and this portable UV water purification system has been a game-changer. Whether setting up camp beside a river or exploring the rugged terrain of outback Queensland, this device has ensured that I’ve always had a dependable supply of clean drinking water.

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The self-contained unit doesn’t need any extra gizmos to function; with just the push of a button, the system pumps, filters and purifies water from virtually any fresh water source, so there’s no need to carry a lot of water with you, or to worry about where your next drink will come from.

One of the standout features of the Guzzle H2O Stream is its water-processing efficiency. It can pump and filter water at a maximum rate of 2.7 litres per minute (lpm). Furthermore, the device can purify up to 120 litres of water on a single battery charge, making it ideal for longer expeditions where access to clean water is limited. This means you can fill up your water tank or jerry can without breaking a sweat, making it suited to solo adventurers and families alike.

At the heart of the Guzzle H2O Stream’s effectiveness is its advanced LED UV-C purification, which has been third-party tested to inactivate 99.99 per cent of bacteria, protozoa and viruses. And the purification system is NSF 55 listed, so you can be sure it’s providing clean water whether your source is crystal-clear creek or a murky billabong.

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In addition to its UV-C purification capabilities, the Guzzle H2O Stream features a 0.5-micron activated carbon block filter. This filter plays a crucial role in reducing sediment, chlorine taste and odour, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and other chemical contaminants that may be present in water. The carbon block filter is particularly effective at improving the taste and quality of water, which is especially important when sourcing water from natural bodies.

The carbon block filter can handle up to 3785 litres per cartridge before it needs replacement. This long lifespan not only makes the Guzzle H2O Stream cost-effective to maintain but also ensures that you won’t have to worry about frequent filter changes, even on extended trips. When the time does come to replace the filter, the process is straightforward, requiring minimal effort.

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The system also includes a pre-filter to remove larger particles and sediment before the water reaches the UV-C purification stage. The pre-filter ensures that the main filtration system isn’t overwhelmed by debris, allowing the device to work effectively even in challenging conditions. I’ve recently been sent an upgraded pre-filter that contains a heavier weight to keep the filter below the waterline; the filter is larger and finer, significantly reducing sediment and particulates from reaching the next purification stage.

For those who frequent established campgrounds, the Guzzle H2O Stream’s ability to connect to standard hoses is a significant benefit. This feature allows you to use the device with campground water supplies, filtering and purifying the water to remove any residual chemicals or contaminants that might affect taste or safety.

The Guzzle H2O Stream is built tough and designed to withstand harsh conditions, with an IP67 waterproof rating that protects it from dust and water ingress. All components are NSF-listed or made from FDA-approved materials, so you know it’s built to last.

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The Guzzle H2O Stream is powered by a rechargeable 3000mAh LiFePO4 battery that is capable of filtering and purifying up to 340 litres of water on a single charge, depending on the mode used. The device offers two modes: Pumping Mode, which supports 120 litres of water at a 2.83 lpm flow rate; and Pressurised Mode, which supports 340 litres at a 4.16 lpm flow rate.

These options provide flexibility, allowing you to choose the mode that best suits your needs at any given time. I’ve used the Guzzle H2O Stream in caravan parks, service stations, and roadside stops to refill my drinking water tank using the Pressurised Mode, and it is a faster filling method by far.

The Guzzle H2O Stream can be recharged using a 240v charger or a 12v plug, making it compatible with various power sources, and ensuring reliability no matter where your adventures take you.

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The Guzzle H2O Stream weighs 6kg, so it’s light enough to pack without weighing you down. Its dimensions are 330 x 255 x 215mm, so it doesn’t take up much space either. And an intuitive interface means that even those with little experience in water purification can operate it without difficulty.

Cleaning and storage is straightforward. After treating silty water, the Guzzle H2O Stream should be flushed with clean fresh water. Steve from Off-Grid Adventure Co suggests, “For long-term storage, it’s a good idea to remove the carbon filter and run the system dry; it will pump the water out of itself. It wouldn’t be a bad idea to flush (the unit) with clean water if your source was particularly nasty. Then store the system with the carbon filter housing removed so that the insides can air dry as much as possible.”

The Guzzle H2O Stream is a cracker of a product that will meet the needs of anyone who requires a dependable source of drinking water while off the grid.

RRP: $2350