LifeSaver Storage 101
For many of us, the weather will soon make outdoor adventures a little less appealing, and our hiking and camping gear will be cleaned, dried, and packed up for the winter. If your LifeSaver Water Purifier isn't going to be needed for a few weeks or more, you'll need to take it through its storage routine to ensure it's ready to go next time you want to use it.
Step 1 - Give it a good clean
Remove the pump and the filter cartridge, and rinse them both in clean water. Remove the carbon and throw it away - it will start to decompose if it's stored wet. Clean the inside of the carcass with warm, soapy water. You can also soak the whole lot in water with a steriliser tablet added. There are videos on our website that take you through each step for each type of purifier, as they are all a little different.
Step 2 - Check the valves and washers
While the pump and tap are off, check the O-rings and seals for signs of wear. Replace any that are damaged and make sure you clean away any grit or scale that may have formed in the screw threads.
Step 3 - Rinse everything off
Rinse off any soap or steriliser residue and replace the filter and tap. Don't install a fresh carbon until you're ready to use your purifier again.
Step 4 - Add a couple of inches of clean tap water to your purifier before replacing the pump.
The ultrafiltration filter cartridge must be kept damp AT ALL TIMES. If it dries out, the membranes will split and allow contaminated water through. If you do nothing else, this is the most important step. Failure to do this will negate your warranty.
Step 5 - Replace the water once a month
Water stored in the purifier will become stagnant if left for too long and, if the cleaning left any dirt or bacteria behind, it will multiply, possibly forming mold. Every few weeks, empty the old water out and add fresh water. If you do see mold inside your purifier, simply wash it off. It won't go through the filter, but it doesn't look or smell great.
One last thing - store your purifier indoors rather than in a garage or shed. Not only will it help remind you to swap the water out, the ultrafiltration cartridges shouldn't be allowed to freeze, as this will also split the membranes.
The LifeSaver Lifeline
There is, of course, an exception to this rule. The LifeSaver Lifeline doesn't use such a 'delicate' filter cartridge (it's why it can't remove viruses). That cartridge should be allowed to dry out completely between trips so it doesn't go moldy.
You'll find all the spares and replacements you're likely to need on our website, but if you aren't sure, get in touch, and one of our helpful team members will be happy to help.