We cannot say for sure that we know the best method to remove the items mentioned by Rodney, but we do know that agencies all over the world (i.e. UNICEF, Medicines Sans Frontiers, US and Foreign Embassies, Crown Agents, the IDA Foundation, Save the Children Fund, League of Red Cross, Green Crescent, etc.) rely on portable water filter systems made by Doulton to clean up water in Third World Nations and in Westernized Nations after natural disasters.

In the past we wrote about the Doulton SS2 Gravity Fed Water Filter and praised its effectiveness at removing as many impurities as it does without the use of gravity. Today we want to call your attention to another version of that filter, the Doulton LP-5 High Density Polyethylene Gravity Filter System which uses up to five of Doulton’s advanced ceramic filters (Imperial SuperSterasyl Ceramic Candles or Super Sterasyl Ceramic Candles) to produce safe, clean drinking water from municipal or natural water sources.

Made of food grade, high density polypropylene, the Doulton LP-5 Gravity Filter System has less weight than its stainless steel sibling, has an excellent reputation for durability, and also has a telescoping design that makes it easy to transport.

When used with SuperSterasyl candles that have a 0.2 micron thick layer of silver impregnated in their ceramic shells, the Doulton LP-5 Gravity Filter System effectively removes pathogenic bacteria such as E.coli, cholera, salmonella, shigella, typhoid etc with greater than 99.99% efficiency. It also removes 100% removal of pathogenic cysts such as cryptosporidium parvum, giardia lamblia, guinea worm, etc.

Inside the ceramic shell you will find a packed bed of coconut shell granular activated carbon (GAC) for the removal of chlorine, VOC’s (volatile organic compounds), industrial solvents, bad taste and odor, etc.

Moral of the story?

Before purchasing ANY water filter, make certain it will remove the things you need removed. In Rodney’s case we suggest finding out the sizes of the unwanted contaminants and making certain they have sizes larger than 1 micron since filters like the Doulton LP-5 Gravity Filter System can take out 98% of contaminants in the .02 .03 micron range and 99.999% of contaminants .9 microns or larger.

Doulton LP-5 Gravity Filter System

Note: A quick search on nematodes turned revealed that they have lengths of around 2.5mm (2,500 microns) or less.

If anyone thinks they have a legitimate offer of assistance to make this fellow, please fill out our online form and we will forward your information along to him.

We need and URGENT quote on 150,000 Doulton W9361122
SS-2 Gravity fet filter system.

Many thanks for response ASAP.

Best regards.

Julio N.

As of right now we know of two companies that carry the Doulton W9361122, SS-2 Gravity Fed Water Filter: Filters Fast (filtersfast.com) and Water Filters (waterfilters.net).

We seriously doubt, though, that either of those companies — or any distribution company has 150,000 units readily available. Therefore, it may make sense for you to contact a representative of the company that manufactures the Doulton SS2: http://www.britishberkefeld.com/.

The simplest way to make sure drinking water contains no cholera, bacteria, etc. involves adding the proper/correct amounts of disinfectants such as chlorine or iodine to the water supply. Naturally we suggest contacting the manufacturer of individual disinfectants to get dosage amounts and instructions for use before adding anything to your water!

Then, of course, we suggest testing for chlorine residuals or iodine residuals in the water afterward to make sure you have added the right amount.

Adding disinfectants not an option… Now what?

In many parts of the world people cannot run out to the store and purchase chemicals like iodine and chlorine. Likewise, after a natural disaster strikes regions of the United States, stores in the affected areas will either have run out of those chemicals or have closed because of the natural disasters.

At times like those a Doulton Gravity Feed Filter utilizing Stearasyl Technology really comes in handy. Doulton gravity fed ceramic filter systems require no power and can provide safe, clean drinking water without the need for chlorine or iodine.

Doulton uses polished stainless steel for the housing of its W9361122 SS Gravity Filter System, making it easy to keep clean, and the size of the unit makes relatively easy to move around and set up. is made from polished stainless steel.

To use the unit simply pour water into the top tank and allow the water to pass through (2) two Super Sterasyl 7 Inch Filter Candles. Clean, filtered water gets stored in the bottom tank, ready for use. Dimensions: Top tank holds a little over 2 gallons of untreated water and the bottom tank can hold roughly the same volume of filtered water.

What gets removed from the water? So glad you asked! The manufacturer makes the following claims about its Sterasyl-based water filter product:

• 99.99% Cysts (i.e. Cryptosporidium, Giardia, etc.)
• 99.99% Particulates (i.e. Rust & Sediment Creating Turbidity)

• 99.99% Bacteria (i.e. E. Cholera, E. Coli, Typhoid, Shigella, Klebsiella Terrigena, etc.)

What about NSF Certification?

We predict that one of you will send us an email asking about NSF Standards and the aforementioned Sterasly Technology, so… Yes. Doulton DOES make a Sterasyl-based water filter system that certifies to NSF Standards. In fact, the following Doulton water filter technologies utilizing Sterasyl have certified to NSF Standards:

• HIP/Sterasyl — Cyst Reduction, Turbidity Reduction, Nominal Particulate Reduction (Class I)
• HIP/Sterasyl Inline — Cyst Reduction, Turbidity Reduction, Nominal Particulate Reduction (Class I)
• HIP/Carbosyl — Chlorine Reduction (Aesthetic), Nominal Particulate Reduction (Class I), Taste and Odor Reduction, Cyst Reduction, Turbidity Reduction
• HIP/Supercarb — Chlorine Reduction (Aesthetic), Nominal Particulate Reduction (Class I), Taste and Odor Reduction, Cyst Reduction, Turbidity Reduction
• HIP/Supercarb Inline — Chlorine Reduction (Aesthetic), Nominal Particulate Reduction (Class I), Taste and Odor Reduction, Cyst Reduction, Turbidity Reduction
• HIP/Ultracarb — Chlorine Reduction (Aesthetic), Nominal Particulate Reduction (Class I), Taste and Odor Reduction, Cyst Reduction, Turbidity Reduction, Lead Reduction

• HIP/Ultracarb Inline — Chlorine Reduction (Aesthetic), Nominal Particulate Reduction (Class I), Taste and Odor Reduction, Cyst Reduction, Turbidity Reduction, Lead Reduction

And in conclusion…

If you have a need or desire to own a gravity fed water purification filter system that pretty much anyone can operate, and you want it to use tried and true technology backed up by research and a whole lot of testing, the Doulton SS2 Filter System (W9361122) definitely deserves further investigation.

Replacement filters for Doulton Water Filters

In an effort to head off an obvious question that we know we will eventually get, below you will find links to several of Doulton’s NSF Certified replacement filters. Please note that none of the filters below will fit the SS2 Gravity System (mentioned above) because it uses a 7″ Sterasyl Filter Candle instead of a 10″ Filter Candle.

Doulton Sterasyl Ceramic Filter Candle
Doulton DS-1000

Your Cost: $30.00
Regular Price: $55.00

“The Doulton DS-1000 Sterasyl Ceramic Filter Candle is a self-sterilizing filter that can be re-used over and over again to provide good filtration at an economical price. The DS-1000 is made of Sterasyl, silver impregnated ceramic. Also known as part number W9120562, itis designed for use in model HCP/S, Katadyn, Ceradyn, drip filter (requires 3) and GCC, Doulton Classic models. The DS1000 is NSF Certified Standard 42 53 for the reduction of: particulates (Class I) Cyst (Cryptosporidium Giardia) TurbidityThe DS-1000 Sterasyl Specifications : 2600 Gallon Capacity 1.5 GPM Flow Rate 2″ x 10″ Dimensions 1/4″ BSP ThreadsThe flow rate of theSterasyl Candlecan be easily renewed by simply brushing its outer surface with a stiff toothbrush, plastic brush or soft scouring pad under running water. As the top layer of ceramic and the contaminants are brushed off and flushed away, a new layer becomes available. With theDS-1000 this process can be repeated over 50 times and or when the diameter of the slimline element reaches 1.75 inches.**Please note, this filter does not contain carbon therefore it does not remove taste odor**”

Doulton Super Sterasyl Ceramic Filter Candle
Doulton DSS-1000

Your Cost: $35.00
Regular Price: $55.00

“The Doulton DSS-1000 Super Sterasyl Ceramic Filter Candle features 1/4″ Threads and fits Doulton Gravity Fed Systems GSS2, GSS3, and GSS4 as well as some HCP and HIP models that require 2″ x 10″ filter candles.The DSS1000 is NSF Certified Standard 42 53 for the reduction of: Taste Odor 99.99% Particulates (rust, sand, sediment, algae) 99.99% Cyst (Cryptosporidium Giardia) 99.99% Bacteria (e.Coli, Chlorea, Shigella, Salmonella) 99.99% Turbidity 99.69% Chlorine 50% Guinea Worm 100%TheDoulton SuperSterasyl Specifications : .4 GPM Flow Rate 2″ x 10″ Dimensions Part Number W9121709 (Long Mount-For Gravity Filters) Part Number W9121750 (Short Mount-For HIP)Filter should be changed when a decrease in flow occurs. The DSS-1000 features 3 stages of filtration: First stage: The first stage consists of Doulton supercarb ceramic which provides genuine sub-micron filtration. The cartridge reduces fine particulate matter, bacteria, cysts and turbidity. Second stage: The incorporation of silver locked within the ceramic structure gives enhanced bacteriostatic and self sterilizing properties, preventing the growth of bacteria. Third stage: An inner core of activated carbon block removes chlorine and organic compounds. ”

Franke Compatible FRX-02 Triflow Filter Cartridge
Doulton FRX02

Your Cost: $59.00
Regular Price: $99.00

“The Franke Compatible FRX-02, FRX02 Triflow Filter Cartridge is the replacement cartridge for Filtration Systems that are included with Franke Triflow faucets including but not limited to the FRXH1 and FRXS2. This filter is for cold water only. Part number W9223020. Filter boasts filtration down to .2 microns and lead removal. Cartridge should be replaced every 6 months to 1 year depending on water quality and usage. Cartridge is 2″ x 9.85″. Installation instructions**Based on Stock you will receive either the W9223020 or the W9223021. These are the same filter just in a different box. ”

Doulton Imperial Sterasyl OBE Ceramic Filter
Doulton Imperial Sterasyl

Your Cost: $40.00
Regular Price: $60.00

“The Doulton Imperial Sterasyl Ceramic Filter is a self-sterilizing filter that can be re-used over and over again to provide absolute micron filtration down to .9 microns at an economical price. The Doulton Sterasyl is also known as part number W9220406 and can be used in any brand standard housing that requires 2.75″ x 9.75″ filters. The Doulton Sterasyl ceramic shell is silver impregnated ceramic which provides for a consistant and controlled pore structure increasing efficiency of this sub-micron filtration filter. The Sterasyl Cartridge is NSF Certified Standard 42 53 for the reduction of: particulates (Class I) 99.99% Cyst (Cryptosporidium Giardia) 99.69% Turbidity 99.99% Harmful Bacteria (E. Coli, Cholera, Shigella, Salmonella, Klebsiella)The Doulton Sterasyl Specifications : 1.8 GPM Flow Rate 2.75″ x 9.75″ Dimensions Operating Pressure 10 PSI ti 125 PSI Cleanable &gt98% Efficiency at 0.2 micron &gt90% Efficiency at 0.05 micron 100% Absolute Filtration efficiency at 0.9 MicronThe flow rate of the ceramic filter can be easily renewed by simply brushing its outer surface with a stiff toothbrush, plastic brush or soft scouring pad under running water. As the top layer of ceramic and the contaminants are brushed off and flushed away, a new layer becomes available. With the Sterasyl candle/cartridge this process can be repeated over 50 times and or when the diameter of the slimline element reaches 1.75 inches.The main difference between the Imperial Sterasyl and the Sterasyl OBE is the diamater. Which allows the Imperial Sterasyl to last longer and be re-used more times. ”

Doulton Sterasyl OBE Ceramic Filter
Doulton Sterasyl OBE

Your Cost: $30.00
Regular Price: $55.00

“The Doulton Sterasyl OBE Ceramic Filter is a self-sterilizing filter that can be re-used over and over again to provide absolute micron filtration down to .9 microns at an economical price. The Doulton Sterasyl is also known as part number W9220402 and can be used in any brand standard housing that requires 2″ x 9.75″ filters. The Doulton Sterasyl ceramic shell is silver impregnated ceramic which provides for a consistant and controlled pore structure increasing efficiency of this sub-micron filtration filter. The Sterasyl Cartridge is NSF Certified Standard 42 53 for the reduction of: particulates (Class I) 99.99% Cyst (Cryptosporidium Giardia) 99.69% Turbidity 99.99% Harmful Bacteria (E. Coli, Cholera, Shigella, Salmonella, Klebsiella)The Doulton Sterasyl Specifications : 1.3 GPM Flow Rate 2″ x 9.75″ Dimensions Operating Pressure 10 PSI ti 125 PSI Cleanable &gt98% Efficiency at 0.2 micron &gt90% Efficiency at 0.05 micron 100% Absolute Filtration efficiency at 0.9 MicronThe flow rate of the ceramic filter can be easily renewed by simply brushing its outer surface with a stiff toothbrush, plastic brush or soft scouring pad under running water. As the top layer of ceramic and the contaminants are brushed off and flushed away, a new layer becomes available. With the Sterasyl candle/cartridge this process can be repeated over 50 times and or when the diameter of the slimline element reaches 1.75 inches.”

Doulton SuperCarb Ceramic Filter Candle
Doulton SuperCarb

Your Cost: $55.00
Regular Price: $55.00

“The Doulton SuperCarb Ceramic Filter Candle is a self-sterilizing filter with submicron filtration at an economical cost! This 3-Stage Cartridge fits Doulton HIP and HCPS housings. The Doulton SuperCarb Candle is also known by part number W9122021. This SuperCarb Candle is 10″ in length, therefore it will not fitDoulton Gravity Fed Systems–a 7″ cartridge is needed for those. NSF Certified Standard 42 53 for the reduction of: taste odor chlorine 97% particulate Class I Cysts (Cryptosporidium Giardia) 99.99% Turbidity 99.69% Bacteria (E.Coli, Cholera, Shigella, Salmonella) 99%The Doulton Super Carb Candle Specifications: 1000 Gallon Capacity .5 GPM Flow RateSuperCarb Stages of Filtration: First stage: The first stage consists of Doulton supercarb ceramic which provides genuine sub-micron filtration. The cartridge reduces fine particulate matter, bacteria, cysts and turbidity. Second stage: The incorporation of silver locked within the ceramic structure gives enhanced bacteriostatic and self sterilizing properties, preventing the growth of bacteria. Third stage:An inner core of activated carbon block removes chlorine and organic compounds ”

Doulton SuperCarb OBE Ceramic Water Filter
Doulton SuperCarb-OBE

Your Cost: $55.00
Regular Price: $89.00

“The Doulton SuperCarb OBE Ceramic Water Filter is a self-sterilizing with submicron filtration at an economical cost! The DSC-OBE fits Doulton housings as well as any housing that requires a standard size small, 2.5″ x 9.5″, OBE (Open at Both Ends)drinking water filter cartridge. Part Number W9222901.The DSC-OBE reduces : taste odor chlorine 97% particulate Class I Cysts (Cryptosporidium Giardia) 99.99% Turbidity 99.69% Bacteria (E.Coli, Cholera, Shigella, Salmonella) 99%The DSC-OBE SuperCarb Specifications: 1000 Gallon Capacity .5 GPM Flow Rate .9 micron filtration 99.99%The Doulton Super-Carb features super carb, is silver impregnated, and has a carbon block core. This Ceramic Filter is certified by NSF and the WHO. Stages of Filtration: First stage: The first stage consists of Doulton supercarb ceramic which provides genuine sub-micron filtration. The cartridge reduces fine particulate matter, bacteria, cysts and turbidity. Second stage: The incorporation of silver locked within the ceramic structure gives enhanced bacteriostatic and self sterilizing properties, preventing the growth of bacteria. Third stage: An inner core of activated carbon block removes chlorine and organic compounds. ”

Doulton UltraCarb Ceramic Filter Candle
Doulton UltraCarb

Your Cost: $59.00
Regular Price: $59.00

“The Doulton UltraCarb Ceramic Filter Candle is a self-sterilizing filter with submicon filtration at an economical cost! The Ultra Carb Candle fits Doulton HIP and HCPS, HCP/S Housings. Also known as part number W9123053. **Please note this Candle is 10″ in length, therefore it will not fit Doulton Gravity Fed Systems–a 7″ cartridge is needed for those. The Ultra Carb is NSF Standard 42 53 Tested and Certified for the Reduction of: taste odor chlorine 97% particulate Class I Cysts (Cryptosporidium Giardia) 99.99% Turbidity 99.69% Lead 98.3% Bacteria (E.Coli, Cholera, Shigella, Salmonella) 99%UltraCarb Specifications: 600 Gallon Capacity .5 GPM Flow Rate .9 micron filtration 99.99%The Doulton Ultra Carb features ultra carbon, is silver impregnated, and has a carbon block + metallic media core. This Ceramic Filter is certified by NSF and the WHO. Stages of Filtration: First stage: The first stage consists of Doulton ultracarb ceramic which provides genuine sub-micron filtration. The cartridge reduces fine particulate matter, bacteria, cysts and turbidity. Second stage: The incorporation of silver locked within the ceramic structure gives enhanced bacteriostatic and self sterilizing properties, preventing the growth of bacteria. Third stage: An inner core of activated carbon block removes chlorine and organic compounds. Fourth stage: Ion exchange resin reduces lead and other heavy metals.”

Doulton UltraCarb OBE Ceramic Water Filter
Doulton UltraCarb-OBE

Your Cost: $59.00
Regular Price: $99.00

“The Doulton UltraCarb OBE Ceramic Water Filter is a self-sterilizing with submicron filtration at an economical cost! The DUC-OBE fits Doulton housings as well as any housing that requires a standard size small, 2.5″ x 9.5″, drinking water filter cartridge. Part Number W9223002. The Ultra Carb OBE reduces : taste odor chlorine 97% particulate Class I Cysts (Cryptosporidium Giardia) 99.99% Turbidity 99.69% Lead 98.3% Bacteria (E.Coli, Cholera, Shigella, Salmonella) 99%The DUC-OBE UltraCarb Specifications: 600 Gallon Capacity .5 GPM Flow Rate .9 micron filtration 99.99%The Doulton Ultra-Carbfeaturesultra carbon, is silver impregnated, and has a carbon block + metallic media core. This CeramicFilter is certified by NSF and the WHO. Stages of Filtration: First stage: The first stage consists of Doulton ultracarb ceramic which provides genuine sub-micron filtration. The cartridge reduces fine particulate matter, bacteria, cysts and turbidity. Second stage: The incorporation of silver locked within the ceramic structure gives enhanced bacteriostatic and self sterilizing properties, preventing the growth of bacteria. Third stage: An inner core of activated carbon block removes chlorine and organic compounds. Fourth stage: Ion exchange resin reduces lead and other heavy metals.”

Doulton 7″ Super Sterasyl Ceramic Filter W9121200
Doulton W9121200

Your Cost: $35.00
Regular Price: $35.00

“The Doulton 7″ Super Sterasyl Ceramic Filter Candle W9121200 features 1/4″ Threads and fits Doulton Gravity Fed Systems GSS2, GSS3, and GSS4 as well as some HCP and HIP models that require 2″ x 7″ filter candles. The W9121200 is NSF Certified Standard 42 53 for the reduction of: Taste Odor 99.99% Particulates (rust, sand, sediment, algae) 99.99% Cyst (Cryptosporidium Giardia) 99.99% Bacteria (e.Coli, Chlorea, Shigella, Salmonella) 99.99% Turbidity 99.69% Chlorine 50% (in pressure fed system) Chlorine 95% (in gravity fed systems) Guinea Worm 100%The W9121200 SuperSterasyl Specifications : .4 GPM Flow Rate 2″ x 7″ DimensionsFirst stage: The first stage consists of Doulton supercarb ceramic which provides genuine sub-micron filtration. The cartridge reduces fine particulate matter, bacteria, cysts and turbidity. Second stage: The incorporation of silver locked within the ceramic structure gives enhanced bacteriostatic and self sterilizing properties, preventing the growth of bacteria. Third stage: An inner core of activated carbon block removes chlorine and organic compounds. ”

Doulton W9240005 Scale/KDF Ceramic Cartridge
Doulton W9240005

Your Cost: $35.00
Regular Price: $55.00

“The Doulton W9240005 Scale/KDF Ceramic Cartridge can be used as a replacement cartridge in Doulton Slim Twin or Tripple Under Counter and Counter Top HIP units to reduce chlorine, calcium build-up, scale, and VOC’s in your drinking water. Including but not limited to Doulton models W9333042, W9332001, and W9380002. The W9240005 is filled with Polyphosphate and KDF Media surrounded by Doulton’s signature ceramic body. The polyphosphate reduces calcium build-up, while the KDF Media reduces chlorine and Volatile Organic Compounds (VOC). This cartridge should be changed every 6-8 months depending on water quality and usage. **Cartridge specifically designed for Doulton Under Counter and Counter Top Units. This cartridge cannot be used with other brands. “

In simpler terms this means we ALWAYS suggest that consumers test their water, or have it tested, before making a purchasing decision.

Consumers have two options when it comes to drinking water testing:

1) Call the Environmental Protection Agency’s Safe Drinking Water Hotline at 800-426-4791 for a list of state-certified drinking water testing laboratories in their area. ( EPA SafeWater Project )

2) Obtain a home drinking water test kit such as the WaterSafe City Water Test Kit drinking water test kit or the SenSafe Water Quality Test Kit from a local retailer or a reputable online vendor such as the Water Test Kit Store, FiltersFast.Com, or FilterWater.Com.

Important Note: While at-home water quality test kits provide reasonable piece of mind when it comes to monitoring the safety and purity of your drinking water, if you have serious reason(s) to suspect your water may have gotten contaminated you will definitely want to have your water tested by a certified drinking water professional.

Common types of water filters?

For most people (on municipal/city water sources) one of three types of water filters will handle their water filtration needs: 1) Carbon block; 2) Sediment; and 3) Multi-Stage.

Conveniently, companies like Crystal Quest, a leading manufacturer of home and drinking water filters manufactures a full line of filters in styles that include countertop, undersink and whole house — each designed to address specific water improvement needs.

Therefore it certainly behooves homeowners to test their drinking water prior to purchasing a water filtration system. Otherwise they run the risk of purchasing too much filter for your drinking water (i.e. wasting money!) or not enough filter for your water quality situation (i.e. still having water quality issues!).